Business Development Manager (m/w/d)
d.light
Company Overview
d.light
San Francisco, CA, United States
2007
Employee count is not publicly disclosed, and revenue figures for 2023 or later are not available; however, d.light has raised over $20 million in early venture capital and participated in multiple funding rounds, including a $30 million Series D (source: sfgate.com).
What They Do
d.light is a for-profit social enterprise and certified B Corporation that specializes in solar-powered solutions aimed at off-grid and underserved communities. The company focuses on providing affordable and durable solar lighting, home systems, inverters, and appliances, with a strong emphasis on human-centered design. Their products include solar home systems, portable solar lanterns, and PayGo financing models, which allow customers to pay for their energy solutions in manageable daily installments of 20-50 US cents (source: dlight.com). The technology is designed to last, featuring LiFePO4 batteries that can endure over 2000 cycles, and polycrystalline solar panels ranging from 9W to 40W, making them suitable for various applications in regions lacking reliable electricity (source: dlight.com). By targeting low-income families, small businesses, health centers, and schools, d.light aims to improve the quality of life for millions while promoting sustainable energy practices.
Projects & Track Record
Since its inception, d.light has successfully distributed over 25 million solar products across 62 countries, significantly impacting the lives of approximately 173 million people. Notable projects include installations at the Gora Primary Health Care Center in Plateau State, Nigeria, where their iMAX10 inverters have facilitated critical medical interventions during power outages. Additionally, health centers in Abia State have utilized d.light's technology for phototherapy treatments (source: techxlab.org). Current efforts are focused on scaling PayGo solar home systems in regions like Mt. Kenya's Kiharu area, where they provide essential lighting and educational support, as well as in urban settings like Nairobi for business lighting solutions (source: dlight.com). The company has established partnerships with local distributors and organizations such as Acumen to enhance its reach and effectiveness in delivering solar solutions to those in need.
Recent Developments
In recent years, d.light has gained recognition for its impactful solar solutions, highlighted in the Earthshot Prize video released on October 16, 2024, which showcased how their products have powered 175 million lives across Africa and helped offset 38 million tonnes of carbon emissions (source: youtube.com). The company has also celebrated the milestone of selling 25 million products, contributing to its ambitious goal of reaching 1 billion lives by 2030 (source: techxlab.org). While there have been no major contracts or acquisitions reported for 2023-2025, d.light continues to build on its legacy of innovation and social impact, having previously won the Global LEAP Award in 2016 for its energy-efficient off-grid appliances.
Working There
d.light offers a variety of roles that likely include positions in engineering, sales, customer support, and supply chain management, reflecting its diverse operational needs across global markets. The company recruits talent for its headquarters in San Francisco as well as for field offices in Kenya, India, and China, emphasizing community engagement by hiring local sales agents (source: dlight.com). The culture at d.light is centered around human-centered design and social impact, with a commitment to empowering local communities and ensuring product durability in extreme conditions. While specific employee benefits are not detailed, the company's innovative PayGo financing models suggest a focus on aligning employee interests with customer needs and sustainable practices (source: thecharlesbronfmanprize.org).
Contact
Last updated on 2025-12-26 | Report an issue
Job Description
The Business Development Manager will drive strategic growth, market penetration, and commercial success within Nigeria's solar energy industry. The role requires a commercially astute professional with deep experience in identifying and developing high-value opportunities, building impactful relationships across multiple channels, and shaping long-term revenue-generating strategies.
The individual will be responsible for expanding the organization's footprint through new customer acquisition, channel development, and strategic partnerships, while nurturing existing accounts and ensuring strong customer experience across all interactions. This role supports the company's mission by positioning its solar solutions competitively in a rapidly evolving energy market.
Key Roles & Responsibilities
Strategic Growth & Market Expansion
- Develop and execute a comprehensive growth strategy focused on revenue expansion, customer acquisition, and market diversification in the solar energy sector.
- Identify, evaluate, and prioritize new business opportunities to ensure alignment with company goals and optimal resource allocation.
- Conduct market intelligence to stay ahead of industry trends, regulatory changes, competitor activity, and emerging solar technologies.
Business Development & Sales Execution
- Deliver sales volume, revenue targets, and market share at optimal cost.
- Expand the client base by generating leads, nurturing prospects, and converting high-quality opportunities.
- Develop and manage a strong pipeline of commercial, institutional, and partnership opportunities.
- Lead the preparation and submission of strategic proposals, bids, concepts, and grant applications.
Partnerships & Stakeholder Engagement
- Build and sustain strong relationships with existing clients, potential clients, influencers, policymakers, distributors, and other key industry stakeholders.
- Drive channel development efforts by identifying and onboarding new partners, resellers, and community-level networks.
- Participate in negotiations and secure long-term contracts to support sustainable growth.
Product & Value Proposition Expertise
- Develop deep knowledge of the company's solar products, financing models, technologies, and solutions.
- Communicate value propositions clearly and persuasively to diverse customer segments.
- Work cross-functionally with product, engineering, and operations teams to ensure the offering aligns with evolving customer needs.
Performance Management & Reporting
- Prepare analytical, performance, and forecast reports for executive leadership and Board-level reviews.
- Track and report business development metrics, highlighting successes, challenges, and improvement opportunities.
- Recommend strategic actions to enhance competitiveness and operational efficiency.
Requirements
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
- A postgraduate degree (MBA or related) is an added advantage.
Experience
- Minimum of 3 years in business development, sales management, or key account management-preferably within renewable energy, solar distribution, FMCG channels, or technology-driven sectors.
- Proven track record of driving strategic growth, managing complex sales cycles, and exceeding sales targets.
- Experience collaborating with senior leaders and working in dynamic, high-growth environments.
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About the role
November 27, 2025
Full Time
Company
January 9, 2026
On-site
- Lagos, Nigeria
Minimum of 3 years
UTC+01:00
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