Stefan L.

Sr Channel Sales Manager | Utilities & Energy Solutions | Channel & Partner Development Expert | Driving Growth in Central & Eastern Europe

Cluj, Romania

About

With over 22 years of experience in sales and strategic partnerships within the utilities and energy sectors, I’m passionate about helping organizations modernize operations and drive sustainable growth. As a Senior Channel Sales Manager at Itron, I led partner development and channel sales across Central and Eastern Europe, delivering tailored, innovative solutions that addressed evolving customer and partner needs. Over the years, I’ve successfully managed multi-country sales strategies, negotiated high-value contracts, and launched initiatives that expanded market presence. With a background in mechanical engineering, I bridge complex technical solutions with real-world customer requirements—ensuring both technical precision and customer satisfaction. I thrive in dynamic, multicultural environments and am known for building trust, fostering collaboration, and consistently delivering results. Core strengths: Channel management | Business development | Negotiation | Technical support Let’s connect if you're exploring energy innovation, strategic partnerships, or new business opportunities.

Experience

  • Itron, Inc. (17 yrs 5 mos)
    • Sr Channel Sales Manager Central and Eastern Europe
      Jan 2022 - Present · 4 yrs 6 mos

      Manage and grow strategic partner accounts across Central and Eastern Europe, driving adoption of new products and high-margin solutions. Develop and execute account plans aligned with sales, presales, and marketing objectives. Lead partner enablement initiatives, including onboarding, training, and sales support to expand solution adoption and portfolio depth. Drive operational excellence through CRM (Salesforce) and PRM (IMPartner), ensuring accurate tracking and reporting. Collaborate cross-functionally and with the Itron Engage team to improve partner self-service adoption and dashboard utilization. Maintain strong partner relationships and resolve channel conflicts to support sustainable growth. Stay attuned to market trends and competitor activity to inform strategic decisions and drive regional performance.

    • Channel Sales Manager Eastern Europe
      Jan 2019 - Jan 2022 · 3 yrs 1 mo

    • Sales Manager, Channel & Partner Development Central Europe
      Jan 2018 - Jan 2019 · 1 yr 1 mo

  • Sales Engineer at STENHOJ ROMANIA
    Feb 2007 - Feb 2009 · 2 yrs 1 mo

  • Sales Agent AAD / Area Development Specialist at 3M
    Jan 2006 - Feb 2007 · 1 yr 2 mos

  • Sales Engineer / Reprezentant Tehnic si Comercial at S.C. NEPTUN S.A.
    Aug 2003 - Jan 2006 · 2 yrs 6 mos