The Job
We seek a Standards and Assurance Manager to be based in Azure, responsible for driving the implementation of key certification programs—including Rainforest Alliance, Fairtrade, Cocoa Horizons, and Beyond Beans—throughout our Nigerian supply chain.
The primary duties and accountabilities encompass a broad range of tasks designed to ensure operational efficiency and team performance, including project management oversight, strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and resource allocation. Responsibilities also involve monitoring progress against established benchmarks, identifying potential risks, and implementing corrective measures to maintain productivity and quality standards. Additionally, the role requires regular reporting to senior leadership, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and ensuring adherence to organizational policies and regulatory compliance. Candidate must possess strong analytical skills, a track record of leadership, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Seeking a certified professional with an active credential in the relevant field. Candidates must hold a valid certification that demonstrates expertise and meets industry standards. The role requires adherence to certification requirements, including ongoing education or periodic recertification as mandated.
Verify that all necessary certification documentation, as mandated by our clients, is secured from our respective groups and partners.
Weekly, refresh the internal Certification Status overview to maintain its current relevance, and promptly communicate any significant updates to both the Country Representative and the Global Supply Chain Manager.
Maintain awareness of all certification and regulatory standards to ensure full compliance throughout the supply chain.
Ensure that our supply chain fully aligns with and meets all specified requirements set forth by our clients.
To ensure alignment with regulatory standards, this role is responsible for creating and standardizing all necessary processes, documentation, and training manuals in partnership with the Global Supply Chain Manager.
Drive the up-country Standard and assurance team to achieve certification for certificate holders of RA, FT, and BB through effective and successful execution.
Collaborate with the IMS team to create comprehensive work plans and reports while also contributing to the development of best practices for field staff.
Actively identify and pursue synergies and enhancement possibilities both within the S&A team and across the broader organization.
Oversee the progression of each stage within the certification processes for your team to ensure timely completion and adherence to established standards.
Conduct comprehensive risk evaluations for each group, analyzing potential hazards and determining appropriate mitigation strategies to ensure safety and compliance with established protocols.
Collaborate effectively with the Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) and Information Management Team to establish uniform data collection protocols, ensuring consistency and accuracy across all initiatives.
Develop, implement, and expand innovative methodologies for digitizing standardized data collection processes, including Global Monitoring Reports (GMR) and internal surveys, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and scalability across the organization.
Gather every polygon with absolute precision, ensuring total coverage and accuracy in the collection process.
Gather traceability information to ensure comprehensive documentation and verification of product components and their interdependencies throughout the development lifecycle.
Demonstrates strong leadership and management abilities, overseeing team performance, fostering collaboration, and driving operational excellence. Responsible for setting clear objectives, delegating tasks effectively, and ensuring alignment with organizational goals. Must possess excellent decision-making skills, problem-solving capabilities, and the ability to mentor and develop team members. Requires experience in strategic planning, resource allocation, and performance evaluation to maximize productivity and achieve departmental targets.
Developed and established comprehensive job descriptions for all S&A staff positions, including IMS Officers, Documentation Officers, Field Officers, and Enumerators.
The S&A teams’ performance must be reviewed annually, in alignment with their respective grades, and their objectives should be appropriately established and monitored throughout the year.
Ensure adherence to all applicable local laws and regulations, as well as company policies, to maintain full compliance across all operations.
Provide strategic leadership and guidance to the S&A team aligned with the organization’s Client and Program Targets and Objectives. Ensure the team is equipped with the necessary resources and support to successfully meet their goals. Additionally, facilitate collaboration and assistance from the Global Supply Chain Manager and Country Manager as needed.
Develop and nurture a high-performing, engaged team capable of consistently producing exceptional results, while providing members with ample training and professional development initiatives to broaden their expertise and competencies.
Foster effective collaboration across all departments within the cooperative to enhance synergy and operational alignment.
Consistently prioritize the well-being of all staff members by supplying the necessary safety equipment and tools.
Prepare and oversee financial statements, budgets, and forecasts to ensure fiscal responsibility and compliance with regulatory standards. Analyze financial data, identify variances, and recommend corrective actions to optimize resource allocation. Collaborate with department heads to develop and monitor annual budgets, ensuring alignment with organizational goals. Present financial reports and insights to senior leadership to support data-driven decision-making. Maintain accurate accounting records, reconcile accounts, and ensure adherence to internal controls and external audit requirements.
Develop the yearly financial plan for the upcoming agricultural cycle.
Oversee the S&A budget as a primary decision-maker, meticulously allocating resources to maximize efficiency and drive optimal outcomes.
Secure necessary approvals for operational expenses and item procurement, among other financial authorizations.
Fiscal requests for S&A Funds must be submitted no later than the 15th calendar day of each month.
Submit your S&A Expense Report no later than three business days following the close of each month.
Ensure strict adherence to all relevant laws and corporate procedures, including fraud prevention measures, while actively promoting compliance throughout the organization.
The position also encompasses supplementary duties beyond the core functions, including support for cross-functional initiatives, participation in strategic planning sessions, and collaboration with senior leadership to drive organizational objectives. Responsibilities may involve analyzing performance metrics, preparing detailed reports, and ensuring compliance with company policies and industry regulations. The role demands adaptability, as it requires balancing multiple priorities while maintaining high standards of accuracy and professionalism.
A study will be conducted to examine the use of pesticides and the management of pesticide packaging among the farming groups participating in our certification programs.
Perform internal audits for UDR and Pesticides compliance in coordination with the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) team.
Conduct mapping initiatives alongside conventional UDR suppliers, coordinating closely with the Monitoring & Evaluation team to ensure alignment and accuracy.
Provide training to established UDR suppliers on traceability systems and associated compliance measures.
Minimum of five years of professional experience in a relevant field, with a proven track record of success in similar roles. Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline is required; advanced degrees or certifications are advantageous. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential. Proficiency in industry-standard software and tools is necessary. Demonstrated ability to lead projects, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and manage deadlines effectively. Prior experience in a supervisory or mentoring capacity is preferred. Familiarity with regulatory compliance and best practices is also required.
A master’s degree in disciplines such as Agricultural Development, Environmental Science, or related fields is required.
Seeking candidates with a minimum of five years of hands-on experience in overseeing agricultural standards within the cocoa, coffee, or cashew industries, with a strong preference for those with expertise in cocoa. Proficiency in RA certification programs or equivalent standards is essential for success in this role.
Demonstrated proficiency in strategic planning and meticulous organization, ensuring efficient execution of tasks and projects with precision and clarity.
Professional individuals must possess strong communication abilities and demonstrate exceptional interpersonal skills.
Committed to fostering innovation and enhancing our projects and methodologies through a relentless pursuit of improvement.
Seeking a motivated and driven professional to fill this role, the ideal candidate must bring a strong sense of dedication and enthusiasm to their work. The position demands an individual who thrives on challenges and consistently seeks opportunities for growth and advancement.
Dynamic, proactive professional with a versatile mindset, demonstrating the ability to handle both routine assignments and strategic portfolio management with equal proficiency.
Effective representation of the organization in meetings and events requires strong communication and advocacy capabilities.
A strong grasp of local conditions and realities in the Country of Operation or comparable environments is required.
Proficiency in both English and French is considered an asset for this role.
Qualifications
MBA/MSc/MA
Experience Required
5 years
