In the heart of innovation and sustainable impact, Solar Panda is transforming lives by delivering affordable, clean energy to underserved communities. As a Canadian-based clean-tech company, Solar Panda has rapidly scaled its presence in Kenya by offering solar home systems that illuminate homes and power essential appliances. Our commitment goes beyond providing electricity — we empower rural communities with tools to build better futures.
We operate on a loan-to-own model, offering reliable solar solutions that replace hazardous and costly sources of lighting like kerosene. The result is not only cleaner energy but a tangible improvement in the quality of life for our customers. In our mission to expand this impact, we are looking for a dynamic, motivated, and experienced professional to join our team in Ukunda as a Field Sales Manager.
If you are passionate about leadership, driving results, and making a difference, this role presents a rewarding opportunity to advance your career while contributing to meaningful social change.
Position Overview: Field Sales Manager – Ukunda Area, Kenya
The Field Sales Manager will be a cornerstone in the regional sales strategy of Solar Panda. This individual will be responsible for overseeing and guiding a team of commission-based field sales agents in Ukunda and surrounding areas. With a clear mandate to grow market share and optimize field operations, the role is suited for a sales professional with proven experience in people management, field operations, and grassroots marketing.
This is a full-time role that reports directly to the Area Sales Manager. Compensation includes a base salary and performance-based commission, providing an excellent incentive structure for goal-oriented individuals.
Detailed Job Description
Team Recruitment and Management
One of the core responsibilities of the Field Sales Manager is to build and lead a high-performing field sales team. You will:
- Recruit a team of energetic, goal-driven commission-based sales agents from local communities.
- Provide structured onboarding to new agents to ensure they understand the products, company vision, and sales expectations.
- Continually mentor, motivate, and retain top talent by fostering a positive and accountable team culture.
- Set sales targets for individual agents and the team as a whole.
Training and Performance Coaching
Training and development are crucial to success in this role. You will:
- Deliver initial and ongoing training to equip agents with effective sales techniques, product knowledge, and customer interaction skills.
- Identify skill gaps or training needs and coordinate with Solar Panda’s internal Sales Training Team to develop relevant programs.
- Organize hands-on coaching sessions, especially in areas like pitching to organized customer groups such as chamas (self-help groups).
Field Operations and Activity Monitoring
Execution is key. You will:
- Develop and implement daily and weekly activity schedules for your agents.
- Monitor performance closely through field visits, check-ins, and reporting tools.
- Identify and resolve on-ground challenges that affect productivity or sales performance.
- Support agents in difficult sales pitches or field activities when necessary.
Strategic Sales Planning and Lead Generation
The Field Sales Manager must also be a strategic thinker. You will:
- Develop territory-specific sales strategies and implement initiatives that maximize lead generation.
- Guide the team in identifying potential customer clusters and coordinate effective outreach methods.
- Analyze data and trends to forecast sales performance and identify new opportunities.
Stock Coordination and Inventory Management
A successful sales campaign depends on product availability. You will:
- Liaise regularly with the local Shop Administrator to ensure a smooth flow of inventory to your field agents.
- Monitor stock levels, usage rates, and forecast future needs to avoid disruptions.
- Ensure accountability in stock issuance and returns to minimize losses and inefficiencies.
Reporting and Communication
Regular and clear communication is vital for alignment and performance review. You will:
- Prepare and submit daily, weekly, and monthly sales performance reports to the Area Sales Manager.
- Maintain records of team performance, agent attendance, and field activity logs.
- Provide regular feedback to senior management on market dynamics, customer preferences, and operational challenges.
Market Intelligence and Competitive Analysis
Being in the field, you will be well-placed to observe trends. You will:
- Continuously monitor the competitive landscape and customer behavior in your region.
- Gather and report insights on pricing, promotional activities, and other competitive factors.
- Recommend strategic changes based on evolving market conditions.
Required Experience
To excel in this role, candidates should meet the following experience thresholds:
- Minimum of four years in a sales or micro-finance-related role, preferably in rural or semi-urban areas.
- Demonstrated experience in recruiting and managing field agents or commission-based sales representatives.
- Previous exposure to micro-financing models or community group sales will be advantageous.
Desired Skills and Competencies
Success in this role will also depend on key personal and professional skills:
- Strong leadership and team-building ability to inspire and guide diverse individuals.
- Superior interpersonal and motivational skills to maintain a productive and harmonious team.
- Strategic and operational planning capabilities to drive performance and meet sales goals.
- Excellent time management and the ability to work under tight deadlines.
- Clear and persuasive communication skills in both written and spoken formats.
- A strong customer-focused mindset that emphasizes integrity and service quality.
Personal Attributes and Cultural Fit
At Solar Panda, we look for more than just experience — we seek individuals who reflect our core values and culture. The ideal candidate will:
- Demonstrate high personal integrity and a sense of accountability.
- Be committed to hard work and continuous learning.
- Respect customers, team members, and the community.
- Thrive in a fast-paced, goal-driven environment.
- Be a proactive problem solver and critical thinker.
- Show initiative and take ownership of responsibilities.
Why Join Solar Panda?
- Make an Impact: You will directly contribute to improving lives by expanding access to clean, reliable electricity in rural Kenya.
- Career Growth: With our expanding operations, there are significant opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
- Dynamic Culture: We foster a collaborative, energetic, and inclusive workplace.
- Performance-Based Rewards: In addition to a base salary, we offer a rewarding commission structure tied to your team’s performance.
- Diversity and Inclusion: Solar Panda is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
Application Instructions
If you believe this opportunity aligns with your skills, experience, and passion for social impact, we encourage you to apply. Submit your cover letter and CV by email to:
Deadline for applications: 13th June 2025
Please ensure you reference “Field Sales Manager – Ukunda” in the subject line of your email. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps.
A Commitment to Fair and Equal Opportunity
Solar Panda Kenya Limited is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, religion, tribe, gender, or disability. We are especially committed to promoting gender diversity and strongly encourage female candidates to apply for this position.
Please note that Solar Panda does not charge any recruitment fees during the application or hiring process.
For aspiring leaders looking to drive change and grow with a visionary company, this is your chance to shine. We look forward to welcoming you to the Solar Panda family.
