Commercial Manager (Clean Cook Stoves) at atmosfair

Job Summary:

We are seeking a passionate and results-driven Commercial Manager to spearhead the commercial activities for our flagship product, the Save80 Clean Cook Stove. This role is crucial in bridging the gap between sustainable technology and market demands, ultimately contributing to our mission of combating climate change while improving lives across Nigeria.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Business Development:
   • Develop comprehensive business models, with a focus on sales through banks and other Microfinance Institutions/Organizations.
   • Create innovative strategies to address the overall market, including last-mile distribution and financing options for all potential customers.
2. Sales Leadership:
   • Develop, implement, and closely monitor a guided sales strategy to achieve growth and meet sales targets.
   • Lead direct B2B and B2C selling efforts, leveraging your experience to drive results.
3. Relationship Management:
   • Cultivate and maintain positive relationships with established customers through meticulous account management and attentiveness to their needs.
   • Acquire and manage local sales partners and networks, negotiating conditions and contracts as needed.
4. Supply Chain Collaboration:
   • Work closely with the supply chain team to understand and monitor inventory management systems.
   • Organize cost-efficient shipping and handling of stoves and components.
5. Financial Oversight:
   • Collaborate with the accounting department to ensure financial targets are met and reporting is accurate.
   • Develop an understanding of micro-credits and cash flows to optimize financial strategies.
6. Operational Management:
   • Demonstrate a hands-on mentality in tasks such as hiring local warehouses and establishing business partnerships.
   • Act as the local contact for contractors, service providers, and local authorities, or establish positions to manage these relationships effectively.
7. Government Relations:
   • Leverage your experience to comfortably interact with governmental institutions and their employees, representing atmosfair in high-level discussions.

Qualifications and Experience:

• A strong university degree, preferably in Marketing or a related business field, demonstrating your business acumen.
• Minimum of 5 years of corporate B2B and B2C direct selling and sales management/relationship management experience in related industries.
• Proven track record in business development, particularly in sales to low-income target groups.
• Demonstrated experience working with intermediaries and associations to expand reach and ensure security.
• Practical experience with micro-credits and understanding of cash flow management.
• Prior experience interacting with governmental institutions and comfort in high-level discussions.
• International work experience is highly desirable.
• Strong affinity for numbers and business metrics, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Ambitious and performance-driven personality with a passion for the art of selling.
• Willingness to relocate to Kano and work from there.
• Deep motivation to contribute to the fight against climate change.
• Business-fluent English is required. Proficiency in other local languages (e.g., Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, or Fulfulde) is a significant advantage.
• Ability to operate smoothly in both political and international environments.

Reporting Structure:

You will report directly to the General Manager of atmosfair Climate & Sustainability Ltd. and maintain a dotted line to the management of atmosfair gGmbH, based in Berlin, Germany.

We Offer:

• Full-time permanent employment (freelance contract may be considered for exceptional candidates)
• Highly competitive compensation package with performance-based incentives and clear career progression opportunities
• The chance to work with top-class, made-in-Nigeria products backed by an excellent brand reputation
• Access to high-level government contacts and the opportunity to make a significant impact in combating poverty and climate change
• A collaborative work environment with dedicated colleagues and flat hierarchies

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work hours are 40 hours weekly (Monday to Friday).
• Additional hours may be required to meet production targets and could involve some weekend work. All extra hours will be appropriately compensated.