Key Account Manager

South Pole is an energetic, global company offering comprehensive sustainability solutions and services. With offices spanning all continents across the globe, we strive to create a sustainable society and economy that positively impacts our climate, ecosystems and developing communities. With our solutions, we inspire and enable our customers to create value from sustainability-related activities.

Our Sales & Business Development team works hand in hand with our clients to help them identify the right products and solutions to address their sustainability challenges. Whether they are corporate clients or public institutions, whether they are looking to offset their carbon emissions or to engage in a comprehensive sustainability journey, we have a solution that will generate a lasting impact and take them a step further in their social ambitions. If you are a smart, ambitious and dynamic sustainability professional with a strong passion to make a real difference in the fight against climate change, the below position may be right for you!

Job summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Key Account Manager - USA & Canada to join our team. As Key Account Manager, you will be responsible for creating ongoing demand within a portfolio of key accounts for South Pole’s sustainability advisory services, voluntary offset credits, and renewable energy certificates. This role requires a deep understanding of sustainability practices, renewable energy markets, and a proven track record in key account management.

South Pole’s North American Key Account Management (KAM) and Business Development (BD) team supports clients and prospects in the US and Canada in advancing their corporate climate journey towards net-zero carbon emissions. Corporate needs and challenges are recognized, and tailored solutions are developed. South Pole builds on a unique corporate climate solutions portfolio, including environmental impact accounting, science-based target setting (SBTi), climate-related financial disclosure (CDP, TCFD), decarbonization roadmaps, renewable energy certificates, climate action credits, and impact funds.
South Pole’s approach is characterized by integrity and respect towards clients, colleagues, and the environment. People are our main asset. We grow individually and jointly to unfold the potential of each team member. We instill pride in our diversity and enjoy the fun of working in a truly global team. 

Main tasks & responsibilities:

• Be the main point of contact for a portfolio of existing clients, building trusted, long-term relationships
• Strengthen relationships with a client portfolio, developing them into strategic key accounts
• Manage negotiation and finalize deals with existing clients
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including sustainability consultants and product managers, to deliver innovative and tailored solutions
• Deliver client satisfaction by maintaining South Pole’s high-quality standards while anticipating and exceeding their expectations
• Understand clients' sustainability goals, challenges, and requirements, and provide customized solutions to address their specific needs
• Conduct regular meetings, presentations, and negotiations with key decision-makers to understand their evolving requirements and identify opportunities for upselling and cross-selling
• Develop comprehensive account plans, monitor customer satisfaction, and ensure timely resolution of any issues or concerns
• Provide exceptional customer service, ensuring that clients receive ongoing support and guidance throughout their sustainability journey
• Represent South Pole in client meetings, site visits, at conferences and trade shows
• Stay current on industry trends, market developments, and regulatory changes related to sustainability, carbon offsetting, and renewable energy
• Analyze competitors' activities, pricing strategies, and market positioning to identify competitive advantages and adjust sales approaches accordingly
• Provide insights and recommendations to the management team based on market research and analysis
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to develop new products or enhance existing offerings based on market demand and customer feedback

Requirements:

• University degree, ideally at master’s level and in sustainable development or environment management
• Trustworthy customer relations with a record of exceeding both growth targets and client expectations
• Several years experience in an account management position, with a focus on retention and consultative cross-selling / up-selling, preferably in the field of climate change, sustainable development (renewable energy or carbon markets) or corporate responsibility
• Knowledge of the business drivers behind corporate climate actions and initiatives (e.g. SBT, RE100, carbon neutrality) and the ability to formulate a business case
• Excellent organizational, time-management, and priority management skills
• Strong drive for results, action-oriented, with self-direction and a sense of urgency.
• Ability to successfully navigate complexity and effectively deal with ambiguity
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Excellent computer skills (Google Suite, Salesforce)
• Desire to work in a fast-paced environment with multi-tasking and flexible schedules

What we offer:

At South Pole, we care about our employees as much as we care about the planet. South Pole is not just an employer, we are a Team. South Pole does not just offer people a job, we offer you a career. By joining our team, you will find strong purpose and deep meaning in everything you do. You will have the chance to make a real difference for our clients and for the planet, working alongside a passionate team of like-minded colleagues, while building your knowledge/skills and developing your career in a fun, dynamic, international and fast-growing organisation. 

We’re a planet of 7.5 billion unique and different people. We all have a contribution to make; South Pole is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, marital status or disability. Our recruitment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need.