Strategic Sales Manager -- Large Scale | NorCal (Sacramento, CA)

Why Work at SMA America

At SMA America , we believe in Energy that Changes . Since 1981, we’ve been developing innovative solar technology that simplifies, secures, and enhances the performance of photovoltaic systems — all while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in clean energy.

But we’re not just transforming power — we’re empowering people.

We’ve built a culture where bold ideas are welcomed, collaboration is second nature, and your career growth truly matters. With our Rocklin, CA headquarters as the hub, we offer a hybrid work model, competitive benefits, and a team-driven environment where your impact is seen and felt.

Whether you’re a sales expert, service pro, or engineering innovator, if you’re ready to join a purpose-driven team committed to shaping the future of energy — we’d love to meet you.

Strategic Sales Manager – Large Scale

WORK AUTHORIZATION

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. SMA America does not offer employment visa sponsorship of any kind, including H-1B, OPT, CPT, or TN visas. Candidates who currently require or will in the future require visa sponsorship are not eligible for this role. Candidates operating under a temporary work permit or any visa-tied employment authorization are also not eligible. This position is open to candidates located within the continental United States only.

AI-GENERATED APPLICATION MATERIALS

We review all resumes and application materials for AI-generated content. Submissions that show evidence of AI manipulation -- including AI-written resumes, cover letters, or responses -- will be disqualified from consideration without further review. We want to hear your authentic voice and see your genuine experience.

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

The Strategic Sales Manager – Large Scale is responsible for identifying, developing, and driving profitable business growth opportunities for SMA America 's utility-scale solar and battery energy storage solutions across an assigned North American territory. This position works within a matrix organization with SMA's headquarters in Germany and North America, and contributes to the success of the global Large Scale sales team.

PRIMARY DUTIES / RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develops and manages key accounts within the assigned territory, with a focus on utility-scale PV and BESS opportunities.
• Builds and maintains senior-level relationships with IPPs, EPCs, developers, utilities, and other key decision-makers across the energy sector.
• Develops effective long-term strategic plans to capture market share and maximize sales revenue within the assigned territory.
• Executes a complex solutions selling approach at the executive level to drive technology alignment and forward roadmap development.
• Develops comprehensive short and long-term sales strategies to maximize business capture across the customer base.
• Develops business cases and strategic plans to feed market input, industry data, and customer requirements into internal business unit product and solutions development cycles.
• Actively owns, drives, and manages monthly pipeline business forecast and addresses any issues for successful and timely resolution.
• Implements and improves sales cycle, systems, and processes as required to drive improved effectiveness and profitability.
• Collaborates with internal colleagues across sales, product management, engineering, and service teams to ensure alignment on technical requirements and customer needs.
• Maintains accurate records of customer activity and pipeline in CRM systems with thorough organizational discipline and direct management reporting.
• Attends relevant trade shows, conferences, seminars, and industry events as required.
• Travels to Rocklin-based offices, tradeshows, and customer meetings as needed.
• Travels to SMA headquarters in Kassel, Germany for alignment within the business unit as needed.
• Other duties as may be required or assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in a commercial or technical field is required. A master's degree or post-graduate certification in renewable energy or a related discipline is preferred.
• 5-10 years of successful, demonstrable sales or business development experience in advanced technology industries, with strong engineering understanding.
• Experience in electrical systems, solar/PV design, or related fields is required.
• Proven track record of managing large, complex customers in cross-functional matrix environments with lengthy design, qualification, and project sales cycles across multiple decision-makers.
• Understanding of and prior engagement with utilities, IPPs, end users, and the broader U.S. energy sector.
• Understanding of utility grid operations, power plants, energy transmission and delivery, and associated services.
• Requires an influential network of senior-level industry contacts, understanding of market trends and industry drivers, and familiarity with full sys