Job Title:
Key Accounts Manager
Job Purpose:
Our client is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Key Accounts Manager to join their sales team in the public utilities metering sector. The role focuses on managing and expanding strategic relationships with key public sector clients in the water and electricity metering space. The successful candidate will be based in Cape Town and will report directly to the Commercial Manager. The Key Accounts Manager will be responsible for managing and growing strategic relationships with key public sector clients, including national state-owned water and electricity transmission and distribution companies, as well as metropolitan municipalities across South Africa. The role involves both developing existing accounts (“farming”) and actively identifying and securing new high-value customers (“hunting”), with a strong focus on long-term client satisfaction and sustainable revenue growth.
Responsibilities:
- Develop and execute strategic account plans for key public sector customers.
- Maintain a deep understanding of client operations, challenges, and strategic objectives.
- Ensure consistent engagement and alignment with stakeholders across all levels within client organisations.
- Identify and drive upselling and cross-selling opportunities within existing accounts.
- Actively pursue and acquire new key accounts within the public utilities sector.
- Lead negotiations and successfully close high-value deals with public sector clients.
- Build and maintain long-term relationships with key decision-makers at all levels.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for key accounts, ensuring high levels of client satisfaction and retention.
- Represent the company in client meetings, industry forums, and strategic engagements.
- Develop detailed account plans, revenue forecasts, and growth targets.
- Monitor account performance and provide regular reporting to senior management.
- Analyse client feedback and market trends to support strategic decision-making.
- Collaborate closely with internal teams (Solutions, Operations, and Finance) to ensure effective delivery of tailored solutions.
- Provide input to product development and solution teams based on client needs and market feedback.
- Support the rollout and adoption of new products and services within key accounts.
Qualifications and Skills:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Administration, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
- Minimum of 5 years’ experience in key account management, business development, or strategic sales within the public utilities sector.
- Proven track record of managing large public sector accounts and securing new business.
- Strong understanding of public sector procurement processes and regulatory frameworks.
- Excellent relationship management and interpersonal skills.
- Strong strategic thinking and business acumen.
- Skilled in negotiation, presentation, and stakeholder engagement.
- Proficient in CRM systems, Microsoft Office Suite, and data analysis tools.
- Willingness to travel nationally and engage with clients on-site.