Certification Manager Forestry

Soil Association

Hours
37.5 hours per week

Length of contract
12 months

About the Organisation

Soil Association, formed in 1946, is the only UK charity that works across the spectrum of human health, the environment, and animal welfare. That’s because we cannot tackle these issues in isolation. We campaign for change, we support farming innovation, we serve healthy food in communities, we support and grow the organic market, and we protect forests. We couldn't do any of this without our supporters, partners, donors, and dedicated staff. We make a difference in the world where it’s needed the most.

About the role

The Forestry team is responsible for FSC and PEFC certification activities in over 60 countries for both Forest Management and Chain of Custody. We are a friendly, tight-knit team who help each other out and often work across several portfolios. This means there are loads of challenges, rewards and opportunities. Most of the work is office-based, with some UK and international travel. We are seeking an individual with experience in certification to manage and promote FSC and PEFC certification according to the relevant accreditation requirements for each scheme in collaboration with the portfolio team.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities:

• Implement, adapt, maintain, and develop procedures and systems for the efficient implementation of the Forestry certification programme.
• Ensure that Forestry operates in accordance with the requirements of the
• Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) and successfully remains accredited to the FSC, PEFC and any other bodies to which Forestry becomes accredited.
• Network with existing organisations in defined regions to develop positive working relationships and promote uptake of certification implemented by Soil Association Forestry.
• Guide prospective and active clients through the certification process, providing advice, support and information as necessary.
• Make arrangements for and/or carry out FSC and PEFC certification pre - assessments and assessments, lead and organise assessment teams, and evaluate reports as necessary.
• After appropriate training, make certification recommendations on forest and chain of custody reports submitted by other Forestry assessors.
• Promote Forestry to potential clients and develop further business in the area of forest certification and related projects.
• Including writing proposals, estimates and bids for certification projects.
• Represent Forestry at external events; assisting with organisation and publicity and writing promotional material.
• Develop and contribute to the implementation of training and other developmental projects in forestry and natural resource management.
• After sufficient training, evaluate lead auditors as part of a regular witness auditing programme.
• Manage budgets for certification clients, projects and associates within defined regions.

Skills, Competencies, Experience & Attributes

Knowledge & Experience:

• Extensive experience in forest management, environmental management, wood industry and related disciplines.
• Substantial knowledge and understanding of forestry and/or forest products Certification
• Substantial experience in certification procedures, preferably in an accredited commercial, customer-focused environment.
• Significant administrative and customer care experience.
• Significant experience with a range of computer software applications, including databases

Personal Qualities & Skills:

• Passion for our cause and vision
• Flexible and adaptable
• Able to prioritise
• Able to work well on own initiative and as part of a team. Able to work well under pressure
• An eye for detail
• Able to think laterally and develop innovative ideas
• Ability to work in a wide range of different environments
• Empathy with the aims and objectives of the Soil Association
• Excellent interpersonal skills; ability to make presentations and communicate with clients, subcontractors and partners in different cultural settings
• Excellent organisational skills; ability to manage, guide and support clients, subcontractors and associate organisations
• Good decision-making skills; ability to make operational decisions and contribute to strategic development
• Good numeracy skills; ability to analyse figures accurately and rapidly
• Good listening skills
• Computer literate; familiar with a range of computer software applications

Required Qualifications

• Qualified FSC / PEFC COC or FM auditor with ISO 19011
• Educated to degree level or equivalent ideally in Forestry, Wood Science, Ecology, Environmental, and related discipline.
• Qualifications in other disciplines considered when accompanied by relevant experience.

Compensation & Benefits

• 27 days annual holiday increasing to 30 days with length of service , plus bank holidays (pro rata for part-time)  
• Pension scheme with ethical investment options and employer contribution increasing with length of service  
• Free membership of the Soil Association and discounts on organic produce  
• Volunteer days to give back to the local community or support green initiatives  
• Family-friendly policies and flexible working   
• Cycle to work scheme 
• Probationary period: 6 months
• Notice period: 2 months
• Sociable and engaging workplace of professionals that share a passion for a healthy, sustainable lifestyle and produce  

Working locations

• Hybrid model, working in the Bristol office and remotely

How to apply

• Please apply on our website and submit your CV and Cover Letter. Please note we reserve the right to close this vacancy early.  
• For any queries, please contact [email protected]

Interviews

• Please check your junk/spam folder if you do not receive a confirmation email upon submitting your application. All candidates will subsequently receive an email to confirm whether they have made it through to the interview stage.

Policies

We know the value of diversity in nature and want it in our organisation. We recognise that diverse backgrounds and experiences will bring a fresh perspective to our work. If you're not sure about applying, please get in touch with us for a chat.

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