Senior Expert (Country Requirements) (m-f-d)

To conceptually lead and advise on activities on the development, implementation, and monitoring of the FSC normative framework related to country requirements (i.e. FSC Forest Stewardship Standards, FSC Risk Assessments), in line with the applicable FSC international requirements, and principles of efficiency, outcome orientation, risk-based approaches, simplification, digitization, and user orientation.
To perform content quality and consistency supervision of FSC country requirements that are under development or revision, development of interpretations to these requirements, as well as to support the introduction of new normative concepts, and to guide the development of training materials in the area of country requirements.

The ideal candidate loves analyzing and perfecting documents, is able to memorize large numbers of relevant requirements, and is well-versed in holding in-depth technical conversations with various audiences, conveying complex contents simply, concisely and clearly. S/he is driven by continuous improvement and highest quality standards, constantly searching for connections, alignment and logic among normative requirements and documents. The seniority of this position reflects the level of acquired or expected to acquire knowledge on the normative framework rather than managerial aspects.

- To advise on the overall streamlining of FSC country requirements with respect to:

• Implementation of outcome orientation
• Focusing the wording of requirements and their structure in documents on user needs and interests, while securing consistency with the applicable international requirements
• Streamlining the review and approval processes
• Digitizing and connecting requirements, advice notes, and interpretations

- To supervise the introduction of the new concepts in the country requirements (e.g. climate change adaptation, biodiversity management, conservation vs intensification, alignment of approaches for risk assessments with external trends and organizations, etc.), in consideration of relevant risks and opportunities, and in collaboration with other senior expert positions.

- To support research and analysis of relevant external policy developments (e.g., on responsible sourcing, zero deforestation, restoration) and their impact on the FSC normative framework. 

- To benchmark FSC requirements and concepts against official regulations, other relevant certification schemes, and third-party initiatives to ensure they remain state-of-the-art, in collaboration with Policy Alignment Department.

- To provide technical expertise for the regular development, review and revision of FSC country requirements, including but not limited to:

• Perform acceptance reviews of country requirements and associated documentation prior to their submission for the consultation and approval
• Advice on interpretations of normative requirements and their intent, to ensure awareness and the consistent implementation of FSC requirements by relevant users (certification bodies, certificate holders, Assurance Services International (ASI), Network Partners, and others), and perform acceptance reviews of interpretations prior to publication
• Contribute to the analysis of stakeholder comments as part of consultations or ongoing inputs.
• Oversee the quality of the applicable feasibility, impact and risk analyses of drafts prior to their consultation as well as prior to their submission for approval.

- To perform the above with the objective of ensuring the relevance, clarity, consistency, feasibility, and user-orientation of resulting requirements and materials.

- To conceptualize, contribute to development and to review training modules and other competence development measures in the area of country requirements. 

- To represent FSC externally in technical and other fora (e.g., on ISO committees or EU policies).

- To adhere to PSU operational procedures, e.g. agile work planning, reporting on office presence, etc.

- Participate in FSC internal competence program.

• Education and Training: An MSc university degree in forestry or equivalent, post-graduate or doctoral degree is a strong asset. 
• Working Experience, Style and Skills: 
  • At least 5 years of professional experience within the sustainability sector with at least 3 years of experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • Technical drafting or reviewing, including copy-editing.
  • Implementation of FSC certification requirements.
  • Auditing of or consultancy services on FSC certification.
  • FSC standard development processes.
• Substantive, highly detailed knowledge and extensive experience related to FSC country requirements.
• Ability to instantly quote relevant country normative requirements and provide immediate response to questions about their content or application.
• Ability to conceptualize new and difficult topics.
• Proven strong project management skills.              
• Proven strong time management skills: Ability to perform well while handling several functions simultaneously.
• Solution, results, and service-oriented attitude to work.
• A very strong sense for diligence and accuracy, especially in managing technical documentation.
• Proactiveness and high level of engagement.
• Communication Skills: 
  • Exemplary verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to establish and maintain positive interpersonal relations.
  • Ability to explain complex topics to a layman’s audience.
  • Skills to lead a conversation and the ability to arrive at timely conclusions.
  • High level of maturity in providing feedback on deliverables, including cultural and personal sensitiveness.
  • Strong presentation skills.
  • Assertiveness.
• Languages: 
  1. Fluency in English (spoken and written). 
  2. Fluency in Spanish (spoken and written) is a plus.
  3. Fluency in French (spoken and written) is a plus.
• Computer skills: Good skills in the use of standard software packages (MS Office). The candidate is expected to possess or acquire skills in Database use (queries) and advance document search. 

• Be part of a globally recognized organization at the forefront of sustainable forestry and contribute to the mission to help protect the world’s forests. 
• Play an active role in the FSC global community of 400+ forest stewards who come together in-person at least once a year. 
• Benefit from cross-cultural collaboration and networking opportunities by working in a dynamic, inclusive, and diverse international culture with over 60 nationalities represented under one roof.
• Enjoy comprehensive benefits, including relocation assistance if needed, and investment in training and development opportunities (e.g., LinkedIn Learning, Learning Lunches and more) to advance your career.
• Explore the vibrant federal city of Bonn, home to Beethoven, Haribo, and the beautiful Rhein River promenade including many urban parks and close access to nature. As Germany's UN City and second capital, Bonn is an international city with a rich cultural heritage, recently celebrating its 200th anniversary. Learn more about the city or take a virtual stroll. 
• Embrace work-life balance: beyond Bonn's borders, unlock Europe's wonders with 30 working days of vacation at your disposal. Whether it's skiing in the Swiss Alps or basking in the sun on Mediterranean shores, your European adventures await.

Ready to make a difference? Join FSC and help shape a sustainable future. Apply now with your resume and cover letter, showcasing your achievements and how you can contribute to FSC's mission.

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

• Please apply via the link on our website
• Submit your CV in English
• Please do not include any photos of yourself.
• The deadline for applications is 6 October 2024. 

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!

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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.