📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: SME Retail Commercial Account Manager
🔹 Company: Firstgas
🔹 Location: Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand
🔹 Job Type: On-site
🔹 Category: 💼 Account Management
🔹 Date Posted: Sun Mar 30 2025
🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years
🔹 Remote Status: On-site
📌 Essential Job Details
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Leading sales and business development efforts in the SME market channel.
- Driving revenue and margin growth for Rockgas SMEs.
- Developing and implementing strategic sales initiatives.
- Cultivating strong customer relationships.
ASSUMPTION: The job requires managing both existing accounts and acquiring new clients, focusing heavily on strategic planning and customer satisfaction.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Contribute to business performance by identifying growth opportunities in the SME channel.
✅ Develop and implement sales strategies to meet or exceed revenue and margin targets.
✅ Enhance relationships with existing and potential customers to understand their needs and deliver solutions.
✅ Manage customer portfolios, including contract negotiation and management.
✅ Lead cross-functional teams to develop new sites.
ASSUMPTION: A significant part of the role involves both strategic planning and operational execution, along with leading cross-functional projects.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: A tertiary qualification in business, commerce, or finance is preferred but not mandatory.
Experience: Proven senior account management or sales experience, ideally within the SME channel.
Required Skills:
- Strong business/commercial acumen
- Excellent sales and negotiation skills
- Effective contract management
- Strong communication skills, both oral and written
Preferred Skills:
- Working knowledge of marketing and brand management
- Experience in leading cross-functional teams
ASSUMPTION: The role prioritizes hands-on sales and negotiation skills alongside strategic business acumen.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: Competitive, with additional performance-based incentives
Benefits:
- Discretionary Short Term Incentive (STI) opportunities
- Additional leave entitlements
- Flexible working arrangements
- Free insurance and health checks
- Access to professional wellbeing services
- Annual wellness grant and award-winning wellness program
Working Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week with flexible working options
ASSUMPTION: Compensation is designed to be competitive within the sector, with various non-salary benefits to support employee well-being.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Utilities, focusing on energy transmission and distribution
Company Size: 201-500 employees, offering a dynamic but personalized work environment
Founded: 2016
Company Description:
- One of New Zealand’s largest energy groups servicing nearly half a million homes
- Pioneering in energy decarbonization and renewable solutions
- Committed to sustainability and community care
Company Specialties:
- Gas transmission and distribution
- Electricity and LPG supply
- Renewable gas projects
Company Website: https://clarus.co.nz/
ASSUMPTION: The company is well-positioned for future growth and innovation within the energy sector.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Mid to senior-level management
Reporting Structure: Potentially reporting to the head of sales or regional director
Work Arrangement: Primarily on-site with some flexibility
Growth Opportunities:
- Leadership development within the company
- Exposure to cross-functional projects and initiatives
- Opportunities to innovate within the SME market channel
ASSUMPTION: The role promises significant career growth and developmental opportunities within a dynamic sector.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Corporate office environment
Office Location(s): Christchurch, with close proximity to regional HQs
Geographic Context:
- Located in Christchurch, a major urban center conducive to business activities
- Rich resources and support infrastructure
- Area known for its balance of city conveniences and natural beauty
Work Schedule: Regular business hours with some flexibility
ASSUMPTION: The work environment is supportive, facilitating both independent and collaborative work.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Initial application review and screening
- Phone or video interviews with HR or hiring manager
- In-person interviews with senior management
- Potential assessment exercises or presentations
- Final decision and offer
Key Assessment Areas:
- Technical and industry knowledge
- Sales and negotiation capabilities
- Communication and interpersonal skills
Application Tips:
- Highlight proven track record in sales and account management
- Emphasize your ability to drive sustainable growth
- Prepare to discuss how you align with company values and sustainability goals
ATS Keywords: Account Management, Sales, Business Development, Revenue Growth, Customer Relationship Management
ASSUMPTION: The application process is structured to find candidates who not only have the skills but also align with the company’s growth and sustainability goals.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- CRM software for relationship management
- Sales analytics tools for performance tracking
- Project management tools for leading cross-functional teams
ASSUMPTION: The role requires proficiency in industry-standard sales and productivity tools to ensure effective management and growth.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Inclusiveness
- Sustainability and kaitiakitanga (guardianship)
- Excellence in service and solutions
Work Style:
- Collaborative teamwork with a focus on community
- Proactive and self-motivated work ethic
- Agility and adaptability in dynamic environments
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you have a passion for driving growth and sustainability?
- Are you comfortable leading cross-functional teams?
- How do you ensure customer satisfaction and long-term relationships?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates must resonate with a culture that is forward-thinking, community-oriented, and committed to sustainability.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Balancing growth targets with sustainability initiatives
- Maintaining competitive advantage in a dynamic market
- Handling high expectations from customers and management
- Adapting to fast-paced changes in the energy sector
ASSUMPTION: Challenges will center around balancing aggressive growth with responsible energy management and maintaining customer satisfaction.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- Similar roles in telecommunications and utilities often have more rigid structures.
- This role offers a balanced focus on both business development and customer management.
- Opportunities in renewable energy sectors tend to offer better growth potential.
ASSUMPTION: The role offers a more dynamic and growth-oriented environment compared to traditional roles in similar industries.
📝 Sample Projects
- Launching initiatives in renewable gas projects
- Developing strategic customer acquisition campaigns
- Leading cross-functional teams in optimizing customer solutions
ASSUMPTION: Projects are likely to be innovative, focusing on sustainability and cross-functional collaboration.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the main goals for this position in the first year?
- How does this role contribute to the company’s sustainability goals?
- What challenges are expected in driving market growth?
- How is success measured in this role?
- What support is provided for continuing professional development?
ASSUMPTION: Interviews should focus on role expectations, impact, and alignment with company values.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through the company website at this link
- Include a resume and cover letter tailored to the job description and company goals
- Prepare to provide references upon request
- Follow up on your application after one week if no response is received
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
