State Distribution Manager at UpEnergy

About the role

• UpEnergy seeks professionals interested in clean energy, rural distribution, international health, and development to serve as the State Distribution Manager for our operations in Nigeria.
• The role requires innovative and dynamic thinking, management skills, high organizational ability, and excellent interpersonal communication skills. The State Distribution Manager will report directly to the Country Distribution Manager.
• UpEnergy distributes clean cookstoves and other energy-saving products throughout the country.
• As we source products from multiple suppliers and distribute them through over a dozen points of sale, tracking and managing our inventory is essential to our business operations.
• The primary responsibility of the State Distribution Manager is ensuring an increase in overall distribution and accuracy in data collection by the Distribution team.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategize and Expand Distribution Channels:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive distribution strategy for UpEnergy products.
• Establish new distribution initiatives and grow existing ones to meet product distribution milestones.
• Develop and oversee VSLA (Village Savings and Loan Associations) distribution program

Drive Distribution Performance:

• Achieve distribution targets as agreed with the line manager on defined periodic intervals.
• Provide ongoing training, support, and performance feedback to distribution staff.

Optimize Stock Management and Logistics:

• Collaborate with the Country Distribution Manager and Warehouse Manager to ensure efficient and transparent stock handling processes.
• Coordinate product delivery, payment collection, warranty services, and partner hosting.

Ensure Compliance and Data Accuracy:

• Implement and maintain robust distribution record-keeping systems and controls.
• Supervise coordination with the Data Team and assist in preparation for annual carbon audits.

Lead Marketing and Promotion Efforts:

• Develop and execute effective, targeted marketing campaigns in collaboration with the Line Manager and local partners.
• Utilize creative incentives to motivate the distribution team and distributors to collect end-user data.

Does this sound like you?

• Experience with Sales, distribution and marketing management
• Local business and landscape knowledge
• Ability to collaborate and build relationships with internal and external stakeholders 
• Excellent command of MS Excel; experience with CRM or social media and graphic design would be a plus 
• 4-6 years work experience 
• Ability to innovate and be dynamic
• Ability to work with speed, accuracy and attention to detail
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to interact professionally with a diverse group. 
• Strong Business acumen, start-up experience preferred.
• A multi-tasker that is creative, ambitious and able to take initiative. 
• Excellent problem-solving ability and judgment. 
• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent required level, in business, Distribution, marketing, or another commercial field
• Fluency in English (written and spoken)