General Manager

About Powerline

Join Powerline and help revolutionize the future of the electricity grid

We are a disruptive, VC-backed cleantech company based in Silicon Valley. Our cutting-edge technology leverages machine learning and artificial intelligence to optimize renewable energy and battery storage projects on the electricity grid. Our products help renewable project owners achieve strong economics and operational excellence, paving the way for a decarbonized and profitable future grid. We work on exciting projects with leaders in the world's most lucrative and complex electricity markets.

This is an incredible opportunity to become an early and foundational team member at a climate tech company that is at a growth inflection point, addressing a critical problem in one of the most important and fastest-growing markets.

Position Summary

This position is based in Australia. The General Manager of Australia will be a critical member of the executive team, responsible for identifying, evaluating, and securing strategic partnerships and business opportunities that drive Powerline's growth. The ideal candidate will possess deep, established relationships within the energy storage, renewable energy, and utility sectors. A strong understanding of Australia's power markets, renewable landscape, and operation of battery energy storage systems (BESS) is essential to effectively communicate Powerline's value proposition.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Partnerships & Relationship Building:

  • Leverage your extensive network of C-suite, senior-level, and head of trading contacts to forge high-impact partnerships with key players in the project development, grid services, and utility sectors.

  • Identify and cultivate relationships with new clients and partners, including project developers, battery operators and utilities.

  • Represent Powerline at industry conferences, trade shows, and networking events to expand the company's visibility and influence.

• Business Development & Sales Leadership:

  • Develop and execute a comprehensive business development strategy that aligns with Powerline's overall growth objectives.

  • Lead the entire sales cycle, from initial outreach and needs assessment to contract negotiation and closing.

  • Collaborate with the marketing and product teams to refine Powerline's go-to-market strategy and value proposition.

  • Develop and manage a robust pipeline of opportunities, providing regular updates to the executive team.

• Market & Technical Acumen:

  • Maintain a deep understanding of the battery optimization market, including competitive landscape, emerging trends, and technological advancements.

  • Communicate Powerline's technical and commercial value proposition to a diverse range of stakeholders.

  • Translate customer needs and market feedback into actionable insights for the product and engineering teams.

• Team Collaboration & Management:

  • Work cross-functionally with the engineering, finance, and legal teams to ensure successful project execution and deal closure.

  • Initially, this role will be a player/coach model. As the team grows, you will be responsible for building and leading a high-performing business development team.

Qualifications

• Required:

  • 10+ years of progressive experience in business development, strategic partnerships, executive roles, or sales within the renewable energy sector.

  • A robust and verifiable network of relationships with decision-makers.

  • Strong knowledge and a demonstrated understanding of the battery energy optimization market.

  • Proven track record of exceeding sales targets and closing complex, multi-million-dollar deals.

• Preferred:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, business, or a related technical field. An MBA is a plus.

  • Experience in a fast-paced startup or high-growth environment.

  • Demonstrated ability to negotiate and structure complex commercial agreements.

  • Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.

Location: This role is based in Australia, preferably in Sydney or Melbourne.

Why Join Powerline?

• Be a key leader in a company at the forefront of the energy transition.

• Work with a team of brilliant and passionate engineers and industry veterans.

• Competitive salary and equity package.

• The opportunity to build a business from the ground up and have a significant impact on our success.