At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive sales of innovative distribution automation products and solutions.
- Company: Join Hitachi Energy, a leader in sustainable technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for personal and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the energy sector with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering and sales experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are seeking a dynamic and technically proficient Sales Engineer – Distribution Automation (DA) to lead strategic sales initiatives across our DA products and solutions portfolio. This individual contributor role is responsible for planning and executing the sales strategy to achieve both qualitative and quantitative targets, driving profitable growth and ensuring customer satisfaction. The successful candidate will collaborate across teams and functions, influence stakeholders, and contribute to a comprehensive offering aligned with strategic objectives. The role requires strong leadership in driving sales excellence and market engagement, without direct responsibility for resource management.
How you'll make an impact:
- Drive sales of distribution automation products and solutions (e.g., IEDs, RTUs, wireless communication), focusing on volume, mix, and profitability targets for assigned business areas.
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders across utilities, EPCs, system integrators, OEMs, panel builders, distributors, and industrial clients. Promote understanding of the full DA offering and ensure a positive customer experience throughout the sales cycle.
- Define and maintain a robust channel strategy that supports business growth across diverse market segments. Identify, onboard, and nurture channel partners—including distributors, panel builders, and system integrators—ensuring alignment with strategic goals. Foster long-term strategic partnerships through ongoing support, co-marketing initiatives, and joint business planning.
- Continuously monitor market dynamics, including emerging technologies, competitor activities, regulatory developments, and customer feedback. Analyse trends to identify growth opportunities and threats, and translate insights into actionable recommendations for product development, pricing strategies, and go-to-market positioning. Provide feedback loops to internal teams to refine offerings and maintain competitive differentiation.
- Represent the company and its Distribution Automation portfolio at key industry events, trade shows, conferences, and forums. Leverage these platforms to build relationships, gather market intelligence, and showcase innovation in grid automation.
- Consistently meet or exceed defined sales targets and key performance indicators (KPIs), including order growth, margin contribution, pipeline development, and conversion rates. Demonstrate disciplined execution of sales plans, proactive opportunity management, and effective use of CRM tools. Maintain a high level of accountability and continuously seek ways to improve performance through feedback, learning, and collaboration.
- Provide expert technical consultation and deliver product demonstrations that clearly address customer needs and expectations.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
- Proven experience in sales management or technical sales, ideally within distribution automation.
- Strong understanding of utility distribution networks, automation technologies, and grid modernisation trends.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
- Willingness to travel up to 50% as required.
Preferred Skills:
- Technical expertise in power systems and DA technologies.
- Familiarity with communication protocols such as IEC *****, DNP3, and Modbus.
- Proven ability to develop and execute market-specific sales strategies.
- Strong customer-centric approach with the ability to identify pain points and tailor solutions.
- Experience working with EPCs, OEMs, panel builders, distributors, and system integrators.
- Solid understanding of pricing models, profitability, and commercial strategy.
- Knowledge of regulatory and compliance standards in the energy sector.
- Proficiency in CRM platforms (e.g., Salesforce).
Sales Engineer – Distribution Automation employer: Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc.
At Hitachi Energy UK Limited, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. Located in Stone, Staffordshire, our team enjoys a supportive environment with ample opportunities for professional growth, as well as the chance to contribute to groundbreaking projects in distribution automation. We are committed to empowering our employees to reach their full potential while making a meaningful impact in the energy sector.
Contact Details:
Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc. Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sales Engineer – Distribution Automation
✨Leverage Your Network
In sales and business development, who you know can often be as important as what you know. Get involved with local networking events or industry meetups to connect with key players. Don't be shy—share your passion for the field and let folks know you're on the lookout for opportunities!
✨Show Your Skills Through Real-World Results
When targeting a full-time role like Sales Engineer – Distribution Automation at Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc., presenting tangible results from your previous sales experience can set you apart. Bring along case studies or examples of how you've closed deals or expanded accounts, and don't forget to showcase your problem-solving prowess. It’s all about quantifying your success!
✨Engage with Sales Communities
Dive deep into online sales communities, like Sales Hacker or LinkedIn groups dedicated to sales professionals. Engaging in discussions and sharing insights can boost your visibility and might just put you on the radar of hiring managers looking for fresh talent in business development.
✨Direct Applications Matter
While we all know the online application route, consider sending direct applications to companies you admire, including Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc.. Tailor your message to explain why you’re drawn to them and how you can contribute as a Sales Engineer – Distribution Automation. Sometimes, a personal touch can grab attention faster than a generic application!
We think you need these skills to ace Sales Engineer – Distribution Automation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Those Sales Skills:In your CV and cover letter, highlight any previous sales or business development experience you have. Use numbers and examples to showcase your achievements – did you exceed sales targets or bring in new clients? Make those accomplishments shine!
Tailor Your Message for Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc.:When writing your cover letter, make sure to tailor your message specifically for Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc.. Show that you know the company’s mission and how your skills align with their goals in the sales landscape. This personalised touch will grab their attention!
Keep It Professional Yet Engaging:Sales is all about relationships, so while you want to maintain professionalism in your application, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Engage the reader and demonstrate your enthusiastic approach to sales and business development!
Proof of Performance:Include any relevant certifications or training you’ve undertaken in sales or negotiation tactics. If you’ve attended workshops or courses, list these to showcase your commitment to professional development. This extra touch can set you apart from the competition!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc.
✨Know Your Sales Methodologies
Brush up on popular sales methodologies like SPIN Selling or Challenger Sales. Being able to discuss these techniques and how you've applied them will show Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc. that you understand the role and can hit the ground running in the sales game.
✨Demonstrate Your Deal-Making Skills
Prepare to share stories from your past experiences where you closed deals, overcame objections, or started new client relationships. We want to show Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc. that you’re not just about numbers but also about building lasting connections in business development.
✨Prepare for Role-Play Scenarios
In a full-time sales interview, don’t be surprised if they throw in a role-play exercise to test your pitching skills. Practising how you would pitch a product or handle an objection will help us shine in this simulation—think of it like a dress rehearsal for your future sales calls!
✨Align Your Goals with the Company’s Vision
Take a moment to reflect on how your career ambitions align with Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Inc.’s objectives. When we articulate how our personal growth ties in with the company’s goals, it shows commitment and a genuine interest in contributing to their success.