Job Title: Commercial Manager
Organisation: African Clean Energy (ACE)
Directly Reports to: Managing Director
Duty Station: Kampala, Uganda
About Organisation:
African Clean Energy (ACE) is a B-Corp certified enterprise that produces and distributes the ACE One solar-biomass hybrid energy system. A small-yet-powerful smokeless stove, it will virtually eradicate the catastrophic impact that traditional cooking and heating methods inflict on health, environment, and poverty in developing countries around the world, and provides electricity.
Job Summary: We are seeking a strategic and results-oriented Commercial Manager to drive the scaling of business development, B2B customer acquisition, and strategic sales growth. This role requires a strong commercial acumen, market expansion expertise, and a data-driven approach to accelerating revenue growth through partnerships, institutional sales, and high-impact commercial initiatives.
The ideal candidate will develop and execute growth strategies that strengthen ACE’s market position, build high-value partnerships, and maximize sales efficiency across multiple distribution channels.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
Strategic Growth & Business Scaling
- Develop and execute long-term commercial growth strategies to scale ACE’s market presence.
- Identify new market opportunities and expansion areas, ensuring ACE maximizes its footprint in Uganda.
- Lead the development of data-driven sales strategies that align with ACE’s business objectives.
- Establish robust pricing and go-to-market strategies that drive revenue and profitability.
- Identify key operational efficiencies to optimize commercial execution.
B2B & Institutional Sales Expansion
- Build and expand B2B and institutional sales channels, securing partnerships with corporates, NGOs, and government bodies.
- Lead contract negotiations, partnership development, and high-value client acquisition.
- Develop and implement account-based sales strategies, ensuring key customers receive tailored solutions.
- Drive tendering and procurement engagement efforts to secure large-scale sales contracts.
- Leverage industry networks to unlock bulk purchase agreements and financing collaborations.
Business Development & Market Penetration
- Oversee business development initiatives, identifying strategic partnerships that unlock new revenue streams.
- Lead the development of alternative financing models to expand ACE’s consumer base.
- Work closely with product teams to align commercial strategies with evolving market needs.
- Develop multi-channel sales strategies that drive penetration in both urban and rural markets.
Commercial Strategy & Execution
- Oversee regional sales expansion strategies, ensuring commercial growth targets are met.
- Implement data-driven performance tracking and forecasting models to enhance decision-making.
- Drive the adoption of innovative sales techniques and digital engagement models.
- Collaborate with marketing teams to develop high-impact campaigns that generate leads and drive conversion.
Team Leadership & Performance Management
- Lead and mentor the Business Development, B2B Sales, and Commercial Strategy teams.
- Establish clear performance KPIs to measure success in sales growth and market expansion.
- Foster a high-performance commercial culture, ensuring sales teams are driven, accountable, and results-focused.
- Provide strategic direction to field sales teams, ensuring commercial priorities translate into execution excellence.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Revenue Growth – Percentage increase in overall company revenue.
- B2B Acquisition – Number of high-value partnerships secured.
- Market Penetration – Expansion of ACE’s footprint into new regions/sectors.
- Conversion Rates – Effectiveness of commercial strategies in turning leads into sales.
- Sales Channel Growth – Expansion and diversification of customer acquisition methods.
- Operational Efficiency – Reduction in customer acquisition costs while improving margins.
Qualifications, Skills and Experience:
- Bachelor’s or tertiary degree in Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field.
- 7+ years of experience in commercial management, business development, or sales leadership.
- Proven track record in scaling businesses, securing high-value partnerships, and growing B2B channels.
- Strong leadership experience, with the ability to build and inspire high-performing teams.
- Data-driven decision-maker, skilled in market analysis, sales forecasting, and performance tracking.
- Deep understanding of financing models, institutional sales, and large-scale distribution.
- Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, with experience managing executive-level stakeholders.
- Experience in the renewable energy, clean tech, or social enterprise space is an added advantage.
Personal Attributes:
- Ability to travel frequently within Uganda
- Passionate about making a positive impact in communities.
- High level of integrity and professionalism.
- Self-motivated with a strong sense of initiative.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
- Culturally sensitive and able to work effectively in diverse environments.
NB: African Clean Energy is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
How to Apply:
Send your application letter, CV, copies of academic documents, and a copy of your National ID to careersuganda@africancleanenergy.com
Deadline: 28th February 2025.
Join us in driving clean energy access and transforming lives!