Lighting Department Manager

Lighting Department Manager – Job Description

Location: Chicago Metropolitan Area

Industry: Electrical Distribution

Position Type: Full-time On-site

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are seeking an experienced, relationship-driven Lighting Department Manager to lead our lighting division within a fast‑growing independent electrical distributor serving the Chicago market. This leader will oversee project quotations and project management, supplier relationships, daily processes and SOP creation, communication and execution with the sales teams, and profitability for the department while driving growth in both contractor and commercial channels.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

LEADERSHIP & DEPARTMENT MANAGEMENT

- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of lighting quotations specialists, project managers, and project coordinators.

- Manage daily operations of the lighting department, ensuring timely response, accurate quotes, and strong customer service.

- Establish and track KPIs for sales performance, margin goals, project turnaround times, and inventory management.

SALES & CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT

- Support outside sales and sales management by providing expertise, product recommendations, and project guidance.

- Engage directly with contractors, specifiers, architects, and end‑users to support project needs and strengthen relationships.

- Drive new business development within the residential, commercial, industrial, and multifamily construction sectors.

QUOTATIONS MANAGEMENT (Pre‑Sale)

- Oversee the full quoting lifecycle including takeoffs, product selection, value engineering, and pricing strategy.

- Ensure quotes are accurate, complete, competitive, and aligned with margin requirements.

- Coordinate with vendors for up-to-date pricing, availability, and alternative solutions.

- Support delivery of timely quotations that support both contractor deadlines and internal sales needs.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT (Post‑Sale)

- Lead project handoff after a quote is awarded, ensuring a smooth transition from estimating to execution.

- Support management of submittals, release schedules, shipment tracking, and delivery coordination.

- Drive expectations around communicating proactively with customers, manufacturers, and internal teams to ensure all project milestones are met.

- Help resolve issues related to backorders, substitutions, deadlines, and changes in scope.

- Work with team to maintain detailed project documentation and ensure financial performance through project closeout.

VENDOR & PRODUCT MANAGEMENT

- Manage relationships with key lighting manufacturers and agencies.

- Negotiate pricing, rebates, terms, and market programs to maximize profitability.

- Stay up to date on product innovations, market trends, and evolving energy incentive programs in the Chicago area.

OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE

- Help maintain accurate product data, pricing, and preferred vendor programs.

- Collaborate with purchasing and inventory teams to optimize stock levels for everyday lighting needs.

- Improve department processes, workflows, and systems to support growth and customer satisfaction.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required:

- 5 years experience in the lighting or electrical distribution industry.

- Strong technical knowledge of lighting products, controls, and energy-efficient solutions.

- Demonstrated ability to manage and develop a team.

- Experience with lighting quotations and project management.

- Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.

- Proficiency with ERP/quoting systems commonly used in electrical distribution.

Preferred:

- Prior experience in an independent, regional, or national electrical distributor environment.

- Successful team leadership experiences and skillsets.

- Familiarity with Chicago-area contractors, specifiers, and manufacturer rep networks.

- LC (Lighting Certified) or equivalent lighting/controls training.

SUCCESS TRAITS:

- Customer‑focused mindset with strong urgency and follow‑through.

- Ability to balance technical detail with commercial decision-making.

- Strong analytical and margin-management skills.

- Collaborative leadership style and a passion for developing people.

- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, project-driven environment.

Pay: $60,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Salary : $60,000 - $120,000