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

Specific Responsibilities

Operate as the lead point of contact for any and all matters specific to customers assigned

Manage all Fairtrade Standards consultations with clients and stakeholders (including Fairtrade producers) and Fairtrade International’s relevant Global Product Managers and Committees

Work with brand holders to assist their launch plans for new Fairtrade products and incentivize them to participate in Fairtrade America’s marketing, education and awareness programs.

Build and maintain strong, long-lasting customer relationships

Develop a trusted advisor relationship with key customer stakeholders and executive sponsors

Ensure the timely and successful delivery of requests according to customer needs and objectives

Conduct research on specific product categories and retail trends, compile data and statistics for internal and external needs

Review packaging and promotional materials and Fairtrade certified claims in accordance with Mark Use Guidelines, national labeling guidelines, laws and policies, and contribute to amendments.

Contribute towards policies and procedures on working specifically with product sector assigned.

Communicate clearly the progress of monthly/quarterly initiatives to internal and external stakeholders

Help forecast alongside the Business Development team and track account metrics

Identify and grow opportunities within territory and collaborate with Business Development managers to ensure growth attainment

Assist with high severity requests or issue escalations as needed

Liaise with International Relations/Certification Department and FTI’s producer relations team to assist clients and producers to connect within the Fairtrade supply chain

Investigate illegitimate Fairtrade certified claims and trademark infringement to ensure integrity of the system and protection of the Fairtrade intellectual property.

Participate in internal consultations and committee work with our umbrella organization, Fairtrade International and regional National Fairtrade Organizations worldwide on behalf of the organization

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.

Qualifications Required:

Proven account management or other relevant experience

Demonstrated ability to communicate, present and influence credibly and effectively at all levels of the organization, including external executive and C-level

Experience in delivering client-focused solutions based on customer needs

Proven ability to manage multiple projects at a time while paying strict attention to detail

Excellent listening, negotiation and presentation skills

Excellent verbal and written communications skills

BA/BS degree or equivalent

More than 3 years’ experience working within a business environment within the USA; preferably at the category management level

University Degree in Business, with a focus in Sales or Marketing. A Master’s degree in a relevant field is considered an asset.

Experience working within the American commercial/retail sector with significant sales and marketing experience required.

Knowledge of Customer Relations Management databases. Netsuite knowledge is an asset

More than 1 year experience researching and/or working with Fairtrade International or any National Fairtrade Labelling organizations within the Fairtrade International system is considered an asset.

Experience working with Fairtrade and/or organic products and / or with a Fair Trade Organization is considered an asset.

Desired skills:

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

• Results driven approach
• Excellent presentation skills;
• 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 aninterview. 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.

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