Business Development Representative

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As one of the largest utility distribution organizations in America, we constantly strive to bring our best to our customers, suppliers, and fellow associates. Irby Utilities is uniquely positioned to provide dynamic solutions to essential utility services impacting our local and broader communities.

Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated and organized individual to join our team as a Business Development Representative who will focus on implementation and operations of specific products with Irby customers. This particular role will concentrate on the expansion of SIMPLer: by Azotel - a robust OSS/BSS platform built by telecom professionals for telecom professionals. This individual will be expected to manage existing client accounts, identify and close new opportunities, and handle various administrative and reporting duties related to the sales cycle. Regular travel throughout the Southeastern U.S. (and beyond, as needed) is required.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in building long-term relationships, understands the ISP landscape (especially within electrical cooperatives), and is eager to help rural and regional providers optimize operations and grow revenue.

Job Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned clients, building and managing relationships with customers and vendors to understand friction points related to products.
• Develop and maintain working knowledge of specific technical products, understanding relevant functionality and features in order to represent favorably to customers and drive sales.
• Leverage client relationships and insights to root cause and problem-solve issues, owning results related to customer satisfaction and renewal success.
• Analyze customer-specific situations, trends, and data, and represent knowledge of such data to Irby leadership and/or customer leadership.
• Schedule and lead customer check-ins, training, and performance reviews in person and virtually, as well as produce reference materials and guides for product benefits and functions.
• Understand customer sales and ordering databases and develop processes to ensure efficient, accurate interfacing with relevant Irby systems.
• Identify, engage, and close new business opportunities within the ISP space, with a focus on electric cooperatives and rural providers.
• Support feasibility and growth conversations with potential and existing clients.
• Represent specific product lines (the SIMPLer brand) at trade shows, cooperative meetings, and industry events.

• Maintain accurate records of outreach, opportunity stages, and client notes in CRM tools.
• Generate quotes, proposals, and follow-up materials.
• Collaborate with the implementation, support, and marketing teams to ensure a seamless handoff and onboarding process.

• Collaborate with Marketing Department to ensure that sales materials are up-to-date and aligned with the company's branding guidelines.
• Assist other sales teams in preparing and organizing sales presentations, proposals, and contracts.
• Gather and provide customer feedback to relevant departments to contribute to product/service improvements.
• Support the planning and execution of trade shows or other customer engagement events.
• Adhere to all company policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned

Essential Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in business development, account management, or technical sales - preferably in the ISP, broadband, or telecom sector.
• Familiarity with electric cooperatives, community broadband initiatives, or rural utility providers strongly preferred.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• Self-starter with strong time management and organizational abilities.
• Willingness and ability to travel regionally 50-70% of the time.
• Proficient with standard office and CRM software; experience with SaaS platforms a plus.

• Ability to grasp technical product details, particularly in the telecommunications and/or broadband categories.
• Proficient within the Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, Teams, and Outlook.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with OSS/BSS platforms or understanding of ISP operations.
• Passion for helping underserved areas improve access to reliable broadband.
• Proven ability to meet or exceed sales targets in a consultative sales environment.

Why work for Irby?

Irby Utilities is a crucial link in the distribution chain, connecting manufacturers to their customers in electrical power, natural gas, and broadband services. Our team delivers end-to-end solutions through logistical and operational support, sales and account management, project services, data analysis, and more. We firmly attribute our success to our people in each of these fields, and we are constantly advancing our skills and abilities.

Our CompetitiveBenefits?

401K Plan, Competitive Medical Plans (medical, dental, and vision), Paid Time Off, Paid Company Holidays, Floating Holiday, On Demand Pay, Flexible Spending Accounts (Health and Dependent Care), Employee Assistance Program, Tuition Reimbursement, Employee Discounts, Long-term and Short-term Disability, and Life Insurance.

About Irby

Irby is a leading fulfillment and solutions provider for utility and utility contracting marketplaces. Pairing nearly 100 years of utility experience with the industry's top technologies and manufacturers, Irby is poised to provide innovative products and customized services to serve its nationwide client base best. Irby offers a complete portfolio to each of its core business segments: distribution, transmission, substation, generation, renewable energy, EPC, fiber/broadband communications, and gas. Visit irby.com for more.

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Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Sonepar is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability unrelated to ability, marital status, family responsibilities, pregnancy, genetic information, sexual orientation, order of protection status, protected veteran or military status, or an unfavorable discharge from military service, or any other categories protected by federal, state or local law..

Sonepar and our family of brands are committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. In keeping with our commitment, we will take the steps to assure that people with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations. Accordingly, if a reasonable accommodation is required to fully participate in the job application or interview process, to perform the essential functions of the position, and/or to receive all other benefits and privileges of employment, please call 843-745-2420 or email recruiting@sonepar-us.com.

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