Strategic Account Manager

About the role

Via is dedicated to transforming public transportation systems to improve access to employment, healthcare, and education. Our innovative technology supports modern transit networks, turning outdated systems into efficient, data-driven services. We work closely with city, county, and operator partners worldwide, establishing ourselves as a leader in transportation technology and services. As a Strategic Account Manager, you will represent Via for our DACH partners, building strong relationships with cities, counties, and transit operators committed to enhancing community mobility. You will oversee a strategic portfolio, ensuring successful renewals and service growth, while collaborating with a talented team focused on making a meaningful impact on public transit users. This role involves working directly with senior stakeholders in the public transportation sector, managing complex relationships, and driving strategic initiatives to expand Via's presence and influence in the region. You will be instrumental in ensuring that our partners receive the highest level of service and support, helping them to achieve their mobility goals through Via's innovative solutions.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Serve as the primary point of contact for city and agency executives, managing the success of transportation systems in your partner cities.
• Drive revenue growth within your portfolio by securing contract renewals, expanding existing agreements, and negotiating upsells with senior stakeholders to enhance business performance year-over-year.
• Act as a trusted advisor to your partners, understanding their needs and implementing service improvements using Via's comprehensive platform, including on-demand services, paratransit, and Citymapper.
• Regularly analyze service performance data to inform strategic decisions that improve quality, efficiency, and growth opportunities.
• Collaborate internally across teams to advocate for partner needs, promoting new products and capabilities that broaden their service offerings and improve operational outcomes.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including city officials, transit authorities, and other relevant partners, to foster long-term collaboration.
• Support onboarding processes for new partners, ensuring smooth integration of Via's services into existing transportation networks.
• Monitor market trends, regulatory changes, and competitor activities to identify new opportunities for growth, innovation, and strategic positioning.
• Prepare and deliver presentations, reports, and strategic plans to executive stakeholders, clearly articulating progress, challenges, and future opportunities.
• Contribute to the development of strategic account plans and business development strategies, aligning them with company goals and regional priorities.
• Coordinate with technical and operational teams to ensure service delivery meets contractual and performance standards.
• Assist in resolving escalated issues and addressing partner concerns promptly to maintain high levels of satisfaction and trust.
• Participate in industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities to promote Via's solutions and strengthen regional relationships.
• Provide feedback from partners to internal teams to inform product development and service enhancements.
• Support the creation of proposals, contracts, and other documentation necessary for business growth and partnership expansion.
• Work closely with the sales team to identify new partnership opportunities and support the onboarding of new clients.
• Maintain detailed records of partner interactions, agreements, and performance metrics to support ongoing account management.
• Foster a team-oriented environment by sharing best practices, insights, and success stories with colleagues.

Requirements

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in client-facing roles such as consulting, customer success, or within a high-growth technology environment.
• Proven ability to build and maintain strong relationships with city officials, transit agencies, and other stakeholders in the public transportation sector.
• Strong analytical skills with the capacity to interpret complex data sets and translate insights into strategic actions.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to navigate complex, sensitive situations and build trust with diverse stakeholders.
• Proactive, self-motivated, and adaptable, with a demonstrated ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment.
• Excellent communication skills in German (C2 or native level) and English; additional languages are a plus.
• Experience working with public sector clients or in transportation is advantageous.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks effectively, and meet deadlines.
• Familiarity with transportation or mobility services is preferred but not mandatory.
• Strong negotiation skills and experience in managing large, complex deals.
• Knowledge of public sector procurement processes and regulatory environments is a plus.
• Ability to work collaboratively across teams and functions to achieve shared goals.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and a customer-centric approach.

Nice to have

• Experience in the public transportation or mobility sector.
• Familiarity with data analysis tools and CRM systems.
• Previous experience working in an international or multicultural environment.
• Knowledge of the German public sector and regulatory landscape.
• Background in sales, account management, or business development.
• Experience working with government agencies or public transportation authorities.

Skills & tools

• Strong relationship management and negotiation skills.
• Data analysis and performance monitoring capabilities.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively across teams and functions.
• Proficiency in German and English.
• Familiarity with CRM systems and data analysis tools.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work under pressure.

Practical notes

• We welcome applications from candidates with various visa statuses.
• Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.
• The role is based on-site at our office in Berlin's Mitte district.
• Candidates should be prepared for an interview process that assesses both technical and interpersonal skills.
• The position involves working directly with public sector clients, requiring professionalism and a strong understanding of the transportation landscape.
• We offer a collaborative and inclusive work environment, committed to social impact and innovation.
• Join us to help shape the future of public mobility and make a lasting impact on communities worldwide.