Disputes Manager (m-f-d)

Temporary, Full or part-time · FSC Global Development GmbH

The Scope

We are looking for an engaged Disputes Manager who brings solid expertise and a passion for FSC’s mission, to work with us in a multinational environment.

Are you a strategic problem-solver with a commitment to environmental sustainability and social justice? FSC International is seeking a Disputes Manager to join our dynamic and diverse team.

Our disputes management has direct impact on people and forests, and we want your help to excel in what we do. In this role, you'll be responsible for overseeing and managing dispute resolution processes, for being a driving force for an effective and innovative complaints mechanism, and for managing related communications and stakeholder relations.

If you're passionate about balancing differing perspectives, about environmental, social, and cultural rights, if you are detail-oriented and proactive, with a strong ability to navigate challenging disputes while maintaining professionalism, we would be delighted to receive your application.
Apply now and make a lasting impact for the world's forests at FSC International!

Main Roles & Responsibilities

To manage dispute cases related to FSC´s Policy for Association, including initial assessments, stakeholder engagement, communications, planning and overseeing investigations and managing decision making processes.
To oversee FSC’s complaints mechanism, ensuring alignment with the FSC normative framework and with relevant internationally recognized standards through the revision, development, interpretation, and implementation of related standards, policies and procedures.
To manage General Complaints and Appeal cases as assigned and agreed within the team.
Identify gaps in FSC’s processes and requirements based on case analysis; systematize solutions to drive policy revisions and strengthen FSC’s integrity framework.
To conduct stakeholder mapping and supporting stakeholder engagement processes.
To manage projects and tools for dispute processes, such as risk screening, case tracking tools, or other integrity-related tools.
To liaise and consult with relevant FSC experts and external partners to solve disputes and complaints, and for integrity projects.
To support reporting and decision-making by preparing reports, presentations, and other documentation for System Integrity / Case Management.
Additional tasks as agreed with the Program Manager for Case Management and project work as assigned according to special organizational needs.

Your profile

Education and Training:

University degree or equivalent training or experience in law, environmental governance, dispute resolution, human and environmental rights, international relations, or a related field.

Working Experience, Style, and Skills:

At least 5 years of professional experience in a relevant field
Knowledge and experience in managing complaints and disputes, for example in the area of forest management, violation of human and customary rights, forest conversion, workers´ rights, illegal trade, and those involving vulnerable groups.
Proven ability to manage high stakes stakeholder relations.
Knowledge of the UN Guiding Principles for Business and Human Rights and experience with their implementation.
Experience overseeing procedures and requirements to regulate work streams.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Good time management skills: Ability to perform well while handling simultaneously a number of work areas and tasks.
Service and results oriented attitude to work.
Project management experience.
A strong sense for diligence and accuracy.
Proven ability to plan and organize work.

Language & Communication Skills:

Exemplary verbal and written communication skills that contribute to managing complex stakeholder relations, cohesive team efforts, and decision making.
Fluency in English (spoken and written).
Spanish and French are a plus (spoken and written).

Digital Skills – good skills in the use of/experience with:

Standard software packages (MS Office).
Database management platforms.
CRM (Customer Relations Management) systems, for example salesforce.

Others:

Experience in working in a multi-cultural, multi-lingual, global team.
Experience in working in / with an NGO or Non-Profit Organization.
Commitment to FSC’s mission and values.
Demonstrated cultural awareness and sensitivity to the diversity of values, views, and approaches to issues relevant to FSC by stakeholders around the world.
Basic understanding of the scope of FSC’s programs and activities.
Ability to represent FSC through his/her work with exemplary personal and professional authority and conduct.

Why us?

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. 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

The Fine Print

Location: Bonn, Germany.
Working Hours: Full time - 40 hours per week (part-time with a minimum of 80% is possible)
Duration of Employment: Temporary contract - 2 years (extension possible, subject to satisfactory performance).
Starting Date: As soon as possible.
Travel: Sporadic travel is required.

How to Apply

Please apply via our website by submitting your CV in English
Please do not send any photos of yourself.
The deadline for applications is 19 January 2025.

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.

We will confirm receipt of your application. Should you not receive a confirmation of receipt please check your spam filter and if you cannot find it there contact us at careers@fsc.org

Please be informed, that by applying for this position you automatically accept our Data Protection Information on processing your personal data.

We are looking forward to your application!

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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.

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We are looking forward to hearing from you!

Thank you for your interest in FSC. Please fill out the following short form. Should you have difficulties with the upload of your data, please send an email to recruitment@fsc.org.