Two thoughts: a) If the growing startup I work for had only hired new employees if we had a full year's salary for them already in the bank, we wouldn't be eve

Two thoughts: a) If the growing startup I work for had only hired new employees if we had a full year's salary for them already in the bank, we wouldn't be even close to where we are today. b) While this guy clearly didn't know his head from his butt when it came to sales, why not leverage his industry connections (which is previous employers obviously felt were strong enough to hire him on, even when he had few other discernable skills) to help establish some important industry contacts? Considering the harm he could have done your business with his, "Please buy our products or else our company will tank." sales approach, I would think he'd be glad to set up a few meetings with some people who actually might have been able to help you out a bit. Food for thought!