Business Development Manager – Fairtrade America – Washington, DC

Description:

At Fairtrade America you will work on behalf of one of the most cutting-edge models for change. Fairtrade America’s mission is to connect disadvantaged producers and consumers, promote fairer trading conditions and support producers to combat poverty, strengthen their position and take more control over their lives. We ensure U.S. companies comply with the Fairtrade Standards to use the Fairtrade Mark, the most trusted ethical product label that stands for better prices for farmers and is backed by strict standards to protect the environment and worker’s rights. And we build public and civil society support for policies and practices that create conditions where farmers can build economic and political power and challenge the way trade is conducted.

The Business Development Manager will oversee client’s needs and assist the Business Development Team to support the organization’s mission.

Specific Responsibilities:

Oversee the development and growth of new business engagement with Fairtrade and to develop and maintain effective key account relationships with brand partners and engaged retailers.
Ensure the growth of Fairtrade market access through directing and managing business development activities delivered in accordance with the organizational strategy
Work with counterparts in the global Fairtrade system to develop new product categories and distribution strategies
Provide marketing support to ensure client engagement opportunities for promotion and marketing
Build awareness and understanding of Fairtrade by educating potential and existing clients of the Fairtrade system through presentations, trade show attendance, public speaking opportunities
Ensure proper communication flow among Fairtrade system partners to ensure best outcomes (in particular with colleagues at Fairtrade Canada and Fairtrade International)
Seek to alleviate obstacles to positive business opportunities growth in USA
Carry out additional assignments as required by the Executive Director

Qualifications Required:

Sales or Marketing degree or a related Business degree

10 years of progressive experience in mid to large consumer packaged goods companies or retail companies that included business development activities and a robust network in this industry

Demonstrated track record of business/revenue growth and new client capture
Demonstrated success creating and implementing business development strategies, along with a thorough understanding of commercial markets and direct experience working with consumer products companies
Demonstrated ability to communicate, present and influence credibly and effectively at all levels of the organization, including external executive and C-level
Understanding of supply chains
Project Management experience
Knowledge of Customer Relations Management databases. Netsuite knowledge is an asset
Working knowledge and understanding of certification systems

Willingness to travel (primarily local) Inter-departmental communication (Certification, Communications, Marketing, Finance) to ensure effective & consistent communication throughout departments and to clientele
Ensuring that their Supervisor is consulted, kept advised and well informed on all financial and contractual matters
Meeting other duties as assigned and mutually-agreed upon goals.

Desired skills:

• Experience working within retail sector or industry sectors such as textiles, cosmetics, or mining is considered an asset.

• Customer centric in approach; • Excellent oral and written communications skills;

• Results driven approach

•Strong analytical and relationship building skills

•Incorporate use of market research services/tools in the identification of business opportunities •Experience in developing short-term and long-term business capture plans
• High personal integrity, honesty;
• High interpersonal and priority management skills
• Able to work in a team environment

• Spanish is considered an asset

How to apply

To apply send salary expectations, resume and cover letter to tloftsgard@fairtradeamerica.org. Only suitable candidates will be contacted for an interview. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, or covered veteran status.

[yuzo_related]