Channel Development Specialist
Job description
Ever thought about making a big difference in the world of renewable energy? Join us at Spark, a Dutch social enterprise who have set out to transform the African energy sector. We design smart solar home systems for emerging markets. This role isn’t just about supporting partners; it’s about enabling life-changing power making a real difference every day.
Why you? Because you’re not just looking for a job—you’re looking for a way to make an impact. You thrive in challenging environments, where you can unlock potential and drive growth.
How? At Spark we provide solar home systems to distributors who then sell these systems to end-users in Africa on a pay-as-you-go basis. Because collections from consumers are slow, Spark provides pre-financing to these distributors. This financing helps them to afford inventory and expand their reach without immediate full payment from customers. With our help, they can grow their business faster, reaching more people with the power and products they need. Your role will be key in driving Spark’s expansion and elevating its partners’ success in delivering clean energy solutions across Sub-Saharan Africa.
What you will be doing
As our Channel Development Specialist, you will be the key bridge between Spark and its distribution partners, empowering them to scale their businesses by strengthening their sales channels and solving their business challenges. Your goal is to unlock their potential and make them more successful by developing creative solutions to help partners grow their sales, especially through new channels. By doing so, you’ll ensure that Spark’s Solar Home Systems reach more end-customers, driving both the partners’ business success and Spark’s mission to expand clean energy access. Your main tasks will include:
- Partner support & growth: Build strong relationships and work closely with our distribution partners to strengthen their sales channels, improve performance, and drive business growth. Identify challenges faced by our partners and provide creative, actionable solutions to support them in scaling their business.
- Develop new channels: Identify and onboard new sales channels to help increase product reach and sales.
- Sales strategy: Analyse partner sales performance and develop strategic plans to increase sales volume and improve market penetration.
- Training: Provide guidance and training to partners’ teams on sales strategies and customer engagement to optimise their performance.
You’ll be working from our Nairobi office, alongside direct colleagues like Micky (Business Development Lead), Jean-Baptiste (Key Account Manager), and our Channel Development Specialist. You’ll also collaborate online with our Breda office team, including Pieke (Tech Support Manager), Andres (Invest Manager) and Mauro (Operations Lead). Additionally, you’ll be in regular contact with partners across 20 African countries.
“As an Account Manager at Spark, I love the impact we create through our partnerships. Every day, I collaborate with distributors across Sub-Saharan Africa, helping them navigate challenges so they can deliver reliable energy solutions to underserved communities. It’s rewarding to see how our Solar Home Systems empower families, enabling them to light up their homes, start small businesses, and improve their quality of life.” Jean Baptiste – Account Manager
What you will bring
- 2-5 years of experience in sales, business development, or channel management, ideally in the energy sector, or a similar industry. A similar industry could be consumer electronics; FMCG or Telco equipment, all in relation to off-grid rural communities.
- You bring valuable experience working in Sub-Saharan Africa or similar emerging markets, managing partnerships across different countries.
- You are fluent in English and French, enabling effective communication with diverse stakeholders.
- While a Bachelor’s degree in Business, International Development, Renewable Energy, or a related field is preferred, practical knowledge of distribution models, market dynamics, and sales techniques in Sub-Saharan Africa is highly valued.
Other skills you’ll bring:
- You are data-driven; you analyse sales performance and trends, using insights to guide partners in optimising their strategies and achieving their goals. You know how to use CRM software, data analysis tools, and Excel.
- You’re not the type to wait for instructions; you actively seek out new opportunities and take the initiative to reach out to partners.
- You think outside the box; when partners encounter issues, you work with them to brainstorm and implement practical solutions.
- You actively listen and adapt your communication style to connect effectively with diverse audiences. You handle difficult conversations with partners confidently, you speak up in challenging situations, facilitating open dialogue to find constructive solutions.
At Spark, we welcome everyone. We believe everyone should have the chance to do well at work, no matter where they come from. If you’re excited about this job but don’t meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply!
Perks of working with us
- Competitive salary package ranging from KES 350.000 to 550.000, at least 50% as a fixed base and the rest tied to performance-based bonuses. The more you achieve, the more you earn—empowering you to exceed targets and drive outstanding results!
- Apple Macbook and iPhone from Spark, (public) transport allowance and phone allowance
- Contribution to health insurance and our pension plan follows government rules.
- You’ll have plenty of responsibility and the potential to grow into other more senior sales roles or regional leadership positions.
- Join a diverse and welcoming team from 15 different nationalities and be part of a movement that’s changing lives.
Recruitment process
- A quick call with Vera to see if we click.
- Meet Jean-Baptise (Key Account Manager) & Amber (Project Manager) to talk more about your skills and the cultural match.
- A more in-depth second interview with Shagun (Commercial Director) & Micky (Business Development Lead).
The deadline for applying is 25th of October. After that we will review all the applications.
Ready to power up your career and the world? Apply now and join our movement at Spark!