Program Manager - Utrecht, Nederland - IDH

Beschrijving

Are you passionate about sustainability and eager to make a positive impact on the environment and our communities? Do you have a deep understanding of the fruit and vegetable industry and a knack for strategic management? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you We are currently seeking a proactive and pragmatic individual to join our team as the Program Manager of the Sustainability Initiative Fruit and Vegetables (SIFAV).

Your role:

Within this role, you will be coordinating SIFAV, a membership-based initiative coordinated by IDH, that aims to actively contribute to more sustainable fresh fruit and vegetable supply chains globally.

SIFAV unites private companies, civil society organisations and voluntary standards active in the fresh fruit and vegetable sector.

The SIFAV 2025 strategy is centred around three sustainability programs:
environment, social and due diligence.

As Program Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing and driving SIFAV.

You will work collaboratively with members from SIFAV and other teams in IDH implement and improve the SIFAV sustainability programs, whilst also developing the SIFAV strategy for 2030.

This role requires a combination of strategic thinking, project management skills, and a deep understanding of sustainability practices within the fresh produce sector.

Key Responsibilities:

• Executing program management, ensuring (1) timely execution of activities and quality delivery of outcomes, and (2) good financial management of SIFAV.
• Implementing and refining the comprehensive SIFAV strategy, ensuring that (1) SIFAV members annually report on their progress towards the 2025 targets and that (2) learnings lead to improved sustainable impact and improved processes in SIFAV
• Oversee ongoing field level projects on environmental topics (water, carbon, biodiversity) or social topics (working conditions, living wages) that relate to SIFAV and develop new field level projects with members if opportunities arise
• Communicate progress, achievements, and challenges related to SIFAV to internal and external stakeholders through reports, presentations, and other channels.
• Stay abreast of emerging trends, regulations, and best practices in sustainable agriculture and incorporate relevant insights into SIFAV
• Support the creation of 2030 strategies and objectives for SIFAV as well as for the broader IDH impact teams "Better Jobs" and "Better Environment"

Who you are:

You are a seasoned project manager with a proven track record and high proficiency in overseeing projects throughout their lifecycle.

Your expertise lies in effectively managing all stages of project development and implementation, including initiating, planning, execution, monitoring, and closure.

You possess the ability to analyse complex problems and challenges, while developing innovative and practical solutions. Communication and relationship building, fostering strong connections with stakeholders and team members alike is a strength of yours.

Whether working independently or as part of a diverse team, you adapt seamlessly, leveraging the unique strengths of everyone to achieve collective success.

Furthermore, you enjoy a dynamic, exciting environment such as IDH.


What you bring:

Preferably, applicants should have a master's degree in Sustainable Development, Social Science, Environmental science, Agribusiness, Agricultural Economics, Marketing, Business Administration, Entrepreneurship, Economics, or related fields.

• At least 5 years of directly related experience working in the role; or in close relationship with the private sector.
• At least 7 years of relevant working experience in international organisations/settings, preferable in program development and implementation in sustainable agriculture management and/or in natural resources management.
• Preferably experience working with retailers and traders.
• Affinity or experience on Environmental topics, especially GHG and working with the tropical aquaculture sector.
• Ability to motivate staff and companies in taking action.

We offer you:

A challenging, pivotal role within an impacting, international organisation - and:

• A salary range between EUR 4,25
• EUR 5,314 (excluding 8% holiday allowance) per month (based on a 40-hour work week), depending on your experience and competences.
• A fulltime (40 hours) 1 year contract initially, with the intention to extend (as this is a permanent position).
• Vacation: 26 days of paid vacation leave per year (100% FTE). Additionally, IDH offers the flexibility to buy or sell up to 6 days of vacation annually, allowing you to tailor your time off to your personal needs.
• Health Insurance Support: IDH contributes €66.14 net per month towards your health insurance premium, helping you maintain optimal health coverage.
• Robust Pension Scheme: A comprehensive pension scheme with considerable contribution by the employer and 3.5% contribution by the employee, ensu