Cost of Vacancy: Sales Account Executive
Calculate the true cost of an open Sales AE role. Missed quota, pipeline stall, and team overload add up fast — see the real numbers with SHRM benchmark data.
Total Cost (45 days vacant)
$146,543
Cost Breakdown
Four cost layers — all calculated transparently from salary, department, seniority, and team data.
Productivity Loss
$49,091Salary/day × 2.0x (Sales, Mid Level) × 45 days
Replacement Cost
$60,000SHRM benchmark: 50% of salary for Mid Level roles
Ramp-to-Productivity
$19,636New hire at reduced output for 90 days after joining
Team Cascade Cost
Often overlooked2 teammates × 30% extra load + burnout cost after 45 days
Projected Total at Fill Date
$217,234
Assumes 54 more days to hire (industry avg for this role type)
Fill 2 Weeks Faster
Save $15,273
Every 14 days saved = $15,273 back in your business
Why This Role Costs So Much
Sales AE vacancies are among the most immediately visible in any organization. The revenue gap is direct and measurable — an AE carrying a $500K annual quota costs the business roughly $2,300 in missed pipeline for every day the seat is empty. Beyond quota, existing AEs absorbing extra accounts experience higher stress and lower close rates, compounding the loss.
- Every day vacant = missed pipeline at the AE's average daily quota value
- Existing AEs covering the gap typically see 10–15% drop in their own close rates
- Sales ramp periods are 90+ days — new hire productivity isn't immediate
- Open AE reqs signal opportunity to competitors recruiting your team members
Calculation Assumptions
Benchmarks: SHRM 2025 Recruiting Benchmarking Report
Calculate for Your Specific Role
This example uses benchmark assumptions. Use the calculator to enter your actual salary, days vacant, and team size for a precise figure.
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