Head of Standards (m/f/d)

Fairtrade is the most recognized and trusted sustainability label, working to make trade fairer for people and planet.

For more than three decades, Fairtrade has been making an impact on the way trade works. We believe that every farmer and worker should have access to a better way of doing business, and a better way of living.

Fairtrade International is an independent non-profit organisation representing more than two million small-scale farmers and workers worldwide. It owns the FAIRTRADE Mark, a registered trademark that appears on more than 37,000 products. Beyond certification, Fairtrade International and its member organisations (three producer networks and 19 national Fairtrade organisations) partner with producers and businesses, engage consumers, and advocate for a fair and sustainable future.

Unit's description and purpose:

Standards & Pricing (S&P) within Fairtrade International is responsible for developing (i.e. preparing, reviewing, amending, adapting) and revising Fairtrade Standards by following Standard setting procedures (SOP), which define core procedural principles complaint with ISEAL Code. We bring Fairtrade's vision to life through our Standards by developing ideas and building consensus.

We support implementation and assurance, monitor impact, and continuously strive for improvement.

Producers and traders must meet applicable standards for their products to be certified as Fairtrade.

• Manages the Standards Team, and is responsible for facilitating the delivery of FI's strategic standard setting objectives through:
  • Planning and overseeing execution of the Standards Team workplan by supporting and guiding the Project Managers
  • Fostering capacity and skill development of the Standards Project Managers, Coordinator, and Assistants
  • Engaging with stakeholder to ensure coordination and alignment with other functions withing FI as well as with FI members
  • Steering strategy setting of and innovation of Standards & Pricing, including but not limited to the design and implementation of the enhanced standard project STEP (2026-2028)
  • Designing and executing with the Senior Advisor Standards the transition plan for enhanced standards (STEP) framework and new ways of working for the Standards Team.
• Represents the Standards team work in relevant forums
• Other tasks that are consistent with the level and responsibilities of this post.

Level of education : The position holder will have a university degree in development, economics, agriculture, business administration or another relevant field.

Years of professional experience : A minimum of 7 years' experience in a relevant area of work.

Job Specific Competencies/knowledge:

• Strong team management, performance reviewing, capacity building and employee development skills
• Diplomatic and approachable communication style, with the ability to cultivate enthusiasm and interest in the subject matter and engage with a variety of audiences
• Ability to be flexible in a complex and dynamic work environment
• Effective stakeholder management skills
• Relevant experience in standard setting and certification voluntary sustainability schemes
• Excellent written and spoken business English. Spanish, French or Portuguese are an asset

Personal Qualities:

• Create and compel direction, purpose, and motivation for the team
• Strong adaptability and crisis managing skills
• Delegation, trust-building, coaching and mentoring
• Strong team player, with ability to communicate in a cross-cultural environment and influence at many levels including senior management

Software/Tools:

• Microsoft 365

• This is a full-time position within Fairtrade International.
• Location is at Fairtrade International offices in Bonn, Germany with the opportunity for hybrid work arrangements
• The office language is English.
• Salary as per the Collective Bargaining Agreement for the Wholesale and Foreign Trade Industries for North Rhine Westphalia Group 6b and over tariff payments
• Holiday Bonus and 13th salary
• 30 days of holidays per year (for fulltime employees)
• Subsidised public transportation ticket
• Subsidised meal services
• Childcare cost subsidy

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