Policy Manager Forest Management (m-f-d)

Overview

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.

Scope

The role extends across consulting, training, and project management to advance FSC’s forest management standards.

Main Roles & Responsibilities

• 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.
• Complete any other tasks assigned by the formal supervisor and project work as needed.

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.

Your Profile – 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 time‑management skills, diligence and accuracy.
• Demonstrated ability to effectively engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including local communities, indigenous peoples, NGOs and industry representatives.

Your Profile – Computer Skills

• Good skills in standard software packages (MS Office 365; proficiency in MS Word).
• Ability to quickly derive insights from data and reports, and guide data analytics relevant for program performance.

Your Profile – Language and Communication Skills

• Lead conversations and arrive at timely conclusions.
• Strong presentation and 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 to a layman’s audience.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive interpersonal relations.

Why Us?

• Benefit from cross‑cultural collaboration and networking opportunities.
• Enjoy hybrid working structure for work‑life balance.
• 30 vacation days yearly.
• Regional transportation ticket.
• Breakfast bars, coffee, tea, and water.
• Participation in learning lunches and cultural festivals.
• Annual in‑person get‑together with 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!

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

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

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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.