Commercial Sales Manager - Industry Specialist

Solar Energy Solutions is seeking an experienced and knowledgeable Commercial Sales Manager - Industry Specialist to join our expanding team. This role focuses on leveraging deep industry knowledge to drive strategic sales within targeted commercial sectors. As a key player in our sales organization, you will champion tailored solar solutions that meet specific industry needs, enhancing our presence and impact in the commercial solar market.

Solar Energy Solutions is committed to sustainable energy innovation and environmental stewardship. Our team thrives on collaboration, expertise, and a shared passion for transforming the energy landscape.

We are an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.

Key Responsibilities:

Industry Market Development

• Develop and execute a market penetration strategy and tactical playbook for Light Industrial (EG - Food & Beverage Manufacturing) and Private Schools

• Identify high-potential accounts within the company’s regional service territory – Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia and Tennessee

• Build relationships with owners, executives, facilities leaders, and financial decision makers

• Establish Solar Energy Solutions as a trusted advisor, partner and provider within these industry segments

Business Development & Lead Generation

• Identify and qualify new solar project opportunities through proactive outreach, networking, industry engagement and online lead generation (EG Apollo.io)

• Generate meetings and site assessments with prospective clients

• Collaborate with marketing and inside sales teams to develop targeted campaigns and outreach initiatives

• Maintain consistent pipeline development activity within Hubspot CRM

Customer Education & Solution Development

• Educate prospective customers on the financial, operational, and environmental benefits of solar energy 

• Work with internal engineering and finance teams to develop project concepts and proposals

• Guide clients through project evaluation including energy usage analysis, financial modeling, and system design considerations

• Present proposals and support negotiations through contract execution

Pipeline & Opportunity Management

• Maintain accurate pipeline forecasting and opportunity tracking within CRM

• Ensure all customer interactions, meetings, and communications are documented

• Collaborate with leadership to review pipeline health and deal progress

• Advance qualified opportunities through the development and sales process

Industry Engagement

• Represent Solar Energy Solutions at relevant industry events, conferences, and trade associations

• Develop strategic partnerships with industry groups, consultants, and influencers within the target verticals

• Monitor market trends and regulatory developments impacting solar adoption in target industries

Other Duties as Assigned

• Support cross-functional initiatives that help accelerate commercial solar growth

• Collaborate with internal teams including engineering, project development, and marketing

• Assist in refining industry-specific messaging and sales strategies

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in commercial sales, preferably within the solar or renewable energy sectors, with a focus on specific industries (e.g., manufacturing, agriculture, hospitality).
• Deep understanding of the target industry's challenges, regulations, and operational requirements related to energy consumption.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and presentation skills with an ability to translate technical concepts for diverse audiences.
• Demonstrated success in building client relationships and closing complex sales deals.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Willingness to travel as needed to engage with clients and attend industry events.
• Bachelor’s degree in business, engineering, environmental science, or a related field preferred.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and commission system
• ESOP
• Health, dental and vision insurance
• Company 401K
• Paid per diem for time away from home
• Career growth potential in the region’s leading solar engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) company
• Business use of company car