Senior Account Manager

Smart4Energy; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in renewable energy technology is seeking a Business Development Manager to promote PV inverter and battery energy storage solutions in Southern Africa. The role involves strategic sales planning, developing key client relationships, and ensuring project compliance with regulatory standards. Ideal candidates will have extensive B2B sales experience and a strong understanding of the renewable energy landscape.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of B2B sales in the PV sector, particularly utility-scale.
• Strong understanding of utility procurement and energy policy in Southern Africa.
• Proven success in negotiating large-scale renewable projects.

Responsibilities

• Promote PV inverter and BESS solutions to utility clients.
• Build relationships with EPCs, developers, and government stakeholders.
• Maintain sales pipeline and represent the company at industry events.

Skills

B2B sales

Client relationship management

Market intelligence

Negotiation skills

Technical knowledge of PV systems

Education

Degree in Engineering, Renewable Energy, or Business

Job description

We are partnered with a well-established, globally recognized energy technology company that has deployed over 400 GW of power conversion solutions worldwide. With nearly three decades of experience, the organization is known for its innovation in solar inverter technologies, energy storage systems, and integrated renewable energy solutions. Their offerings support utility-scale, commercial, and residential projects in over 170 countries.

This company is backed by the industry's largest clean energy R&D team and operates one of the largest power electronics manufacturing facilities in the world. Committed to global sustainability goals, they’ve pledged 100% renewable operations by 2028 and actively participate in international clean energy and productivity initiatives.

Business Development & Sales

• Promote advanced PV inverter and BESS solutions to utility-scale clients in the Southern African region.
• Develop and execute strategic sales plans from prospecting to contract closure.
• Identify and secure key utility-scale opportunities to grow market presence.

Client & Stakeholder Management

• Build strong relationships with EPCs, developers, utilities, and key government stakeholders.
• Lead cross-functional collaboration (sales, technical, legal) to negotiate MSAs, PPAs, and project contracts.

Market Intelligence & Strategy

• Stay up to date on regional policies, competitive activity, and market trends.
• Relay market feedback to product teams to ensure solutions are optimized for local conditions.

Sales Performance & Forecasting

• Maintain a healthy sales pipeline, track performance, and adjust strategies as needed.
• Represent the company at key trade events, conferences, and industry forums.

Project Support & Compliance

• Ensure projects meet regulatory and technical requirements (e.g., REIPPPP, grid codes).
• Coordinate with engineering and logistics to support smooth execution and delivery.

Minimum Requirements:

• 8+ years of B2B sales in the PV sector, especially utility-scale (Inverter / BESS focus preferred).
• Degree in Engineering, Renewable Energy, or Business from a recognized institution.
• Proven experience in direct sales to EPCs, developers, and utilities (not channel/distribution).
• Strong understanding of utility procurement, energy policy, and market dynamics in Southern Africa.
• Demonstrated success in negotiating and closing large-scale renewable energy projects.

Preferred Qualities:

• Existing relationships with EPCs and IPPs in the region.
• Technical knowledge of PV systems, energy storage, and grid compliance.
• Experience supporting project delivery in large-scale clean energy initiatives.
• Fluent in English (additional languages an advantage).
• Willingness to travel extensively within Southern Africa.