Policy Manager Forest Management (m-f-d)

The Scope

This position involves providing technical expertise, identifying alignment needs, conducting workshops and calibration meetings, collecting data on implementation efforts, leading pilot projects, developing interpretations and derogations, and collaborating with FSC teams and stakeholders to ensure consistent and accurate adherence to the established requirements.

This position is envisaged to support the revision of FSC Principles and Criteria.

Main Roles & Responsibilities

• To contribute to the revision of FSC Principles and Criteria.
• Provide expert advice in the roll-out and implementation of Forest Management normative documents.
• Plan, organize, and execute implementation activities, including workshops, calibration meetings, and pilot projects related to FSC normative documents in responsible forest management.
• Conduct comprehensive analyses to identify areas for improvement, ensuring these are considered in the revision of normative documents as necessary.
• Keep abreast of current trends, best practices, and emerging issues in responsible forest stewardship to inform the work of the Forest Management team.
• Respond to enquiries, interpretation and derogation requests from other teams, Certification Bodies and Network Partners regarding Forest Management requirements.
• Work collaboratively with the Forest Management team, consultants and other FSC units/teams, ensuring alignment and collaboration.
• Represent FSC externally in technical and other fora.
• Any other task as assigned by formal supervisor and project work as assigned according to special organizational needs.

Your profile

Education and Training:

• University/technical college degree in forestry, environmental sciences, sustainability, or a related field.
• Familiar with FSC Forest Management certification and/or Forest Stewardship Standards.
• In-depth knowledge and understanding of responsible forest management practices, environmental conservation, biodiversity, and social issues related to the forest sector.
• Training in Project Management, FSC Certification, Communications, and/or administration are assets.

Working Experience, Style and Skills:

• At least 5 years of relevant professional experience in one or more of the following: multi-stakeholder standards development processes, certification (including auditing), forest management.
• Excellent analytical and critical thinking abilities to assess complex topics, compare options, and propose evidence-based recommendations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to guide content discussions and prepare high-quality reports and drafts.
• Good timemanagement skills as well as strong sense for diligence and accuracy.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including local communities, indigenous peoples, NGOs, and industry representatives.

Computer Skills :

• Good skills in the use of/experience with:
• Standard software packages (MS Office 365; excellence in MS Word). 
• Ability to quickly derive insights from data and reports, as well as guide data analytics relevant for the program performance. 

Language and Communication Skills:

• Skills to lead a conversation and the ability to arrive at timely conclusions. 
• Strong presentation skills. 
• Conflict management skills. 
• Assertiveness. 
• Fluency in English (spoken and written).  
• Fluency in Spanish (spoken and written) is a plus. 
• Fluency in French (spoken and written) is a plus. 
• Ability to explain complex topics toa layman’s audience.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive interpersonal relations.

Why us?

• Benefit from cross-cultural collaboration and networking opportunities by being part of FSC global community of 400+ forest stewards.
• Benefit from work-life balance with our hybrid working structure.
• 30 vacation days yearly.
• Regional transportation ticket.
• Breakfast bars, coffee, tea, water.
• Take part in learning lunches.
• Celebrate together festivals from different cultures.
• Once a year in-person get together with the global FSC staff.

The Fine Print

• Location: Bonn, Germany.
• Working Hours: Full time - 40 hours per week.
• Duration of Employment: Temporary contract - 2 years (extension possible, subject to satisfactory performance).
• Starting Date: As soon as possible.
• Travel: Sporadic travel may be required.

How to Apply
Ready to make a difference? Join FSC and help shape a sustainable future. Don't delay - apply now!

• Please apply via our website by submitting your CV in English.
• Please do not send any photos of yourself.
• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

For FSC, inclusiveness and diversity are important values. As such, we welcome and encourage applications from all backgrounds and are entirely committed to consider all qualified applicants regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, age and disability.


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We are looking forward to your application!

About us

Welcome to FSC!

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a globally recognized non-profit organization at the forefront of promoting sustainable forestry. With over 150 million hectares of certified forests and a trusted reputation among NGOs, consumers, and businesses, FSC is leading the way in ensuring the long-term health and resilience of the world’s forests.