Position Overview
An established renewable energy technology and solar solutions distributor is seeking an experienced Branch Manager to take ownership of the commercial and operational performance of its Gqeberha branch.
The business supplies an integrated portfolio of Solar PV modules, inverters, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), electrical protection and mounting solutions, supported by system design, product training, technical assistance and after-sales service.
The Branch Manager will be responsible for growing revenue and gross margin, developing the regional customer base, managing branch operations and stock, leading the branch team and ensuring customers receive responsive and technically informed support.
Key Responsibilities
Commercial Growth & Business Development
Develop and execute a regional sales plan aligned with commercial targets, branch budgets and product priorities.
Identify, approach and onboard EPCs, solar installers, electrical contractors, resellers, agricultural clients and commercial businesses across the region.
Build and manage a qualified sales pipeline, prepare quotations, negotiate commercial terms and convert opportunities into profitable sales.
Grow existing accounts through regular engagement, product education, project support and cross-selling across the solar, storage, electrical and mounting-system portfolio.
Protect gross margin by managing pricing, discounts and credit within approved parameters.
Maintain accurate CRM records, sales forecasts and activity reporting while providing market intelligence on demand, pricing, competitors and customer requirements.
Branch Operations & Financial Performance
Manage the day-to-day operation of the branch across sales, administration, warehousing, dispatch and customer collections.
Take accountability for branch revenue, gross margin, operating costs and agreed performance targets.
Manage stock availability, accuracy, rotation, ageing, losses and damaged goods.
Coordinate replenishment, stock transfers, collections and deliveries to meet customer requirements.
Ensure quotations, sales orders, invoices, returns, credit notes and supporting records are processed accurately.
Work with finance on customer onboarding, credit limits, payment terms and overdue accounts.
Maintain a professional and safe branch environment in compliance with health and safety requirements and internal controls.
Customer Experience & Technical Coordination
Ensure customers receive knowledgeable and responsive support from initial enquiry through to order fulfilment and after-sales service.
Maintain a practical working knowledge of Solar PV, BESS, electrical and related products and their application across residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural and backup-power systems.
Support product selection and solution scoping and coordinate complex technical requirements with the relevant technical teams.
Coordinate technical support, commissioning assistance, training and warranty escalations.
Manage customer complaints and implement corrective actions where required.
People Leadership
Lead and manage branch employees against clear sales, customer service, stock and administrative standards.
Monitor performance, provide feedback and develop product and process knowledge across the team.
Build a commercially driven and customer-focused branch culture.
Collaborate with sales, technical, finance, procurement, marketing and logistics teams to support regional growth.
Qualifications & Experience
Matric is required.
A relevant qualification in Business, Sales, Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy, Operations or Supply Chain is advantageous.
Minimum of 4 years' experience in branch management, technical sales, business development or B2B distribution, preferably within the solar, electrical, energy storage or related technical product sector.
Experience managing sales targets, gross margin, stock control, customer service and branch administration is strongly preferred.
Demonstrated ability to secure new business, develop customer accounts, negotiate effectively and close profitable deals.
Working knowledge of Solar PV and battery storage products, system components and installer or EPC sales channels is advantageous.
Experience using CRM, ERP or stock management systems and Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
Valid driver's licence and willingness to travel throughout the region are essential.
An established regional network among solar installers, electrical contractors, agricultural businesses or commercial clients is advantageous.
Professional fluency in English is required; Afrikaans proficiency is advantageous.
Skills & Competencies
Strong commercial judgement and drive to achieve profitable growth.
Hands-on operational leadership and attention to detail.
Strong relationship building, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
Customer-focused problem-solving and technical coordination capability.
Strong planning, prioritisation, reporting and administrative discipline.
High levels of integrity and accountability.
Important Note
Applicants must have a minimum of 4 years' relevant experience in branch management, technical sales, business development or B2B distribution, together with demonstrated experience developing new business and managing commercial performance. A valid driver's licence and willingness to travel throughout the region are essential.
