Certification Manager

Description (Public)

Certification Manager role at RCS Consult, leading the development, implementation, and maintenance of all sustainable agriculture and ethical sourcing standards, spearheading fair trade and UTZ certification schemes.

Duties, Roles and Responsibilities

Manage field staff and supervise the ICT function to ensure timely inspections and accurate data collection
Maintain and expand sustainability certifications (EU & NOP organic, Fairtrade, Rainforest Alliance)
Develop and deliver training programs for farmers and staff on certification compliance
Oversee the Internal Control System (ICS) ensuring farmer registration, records, and farm mapping are accurate
Conduct internal audits and host external certification audits
Supervise systems ensuring compliance with deforestation and EUDR requirements
Monitor sourcing and purchasing activities to ensure adherence to certification requirements
Maintain strong relationships with farmer associations and cooperatives
Support farmer cooperatives to meet Fairtrade compliance requirements
Ensure transparency and accountability across all certification and sourcing activities
Willingness to live in Bundibugyo and travel frequently to other cocoa producing regions

Qualifications, Education and Competencies

Qualifications & Experience:

Bachelor's degree in Agriculture, Environmental Science, Agribusiness, or related field
Minimum 5 years experience in certification systems (Organic, Fairtrade, Rainforest Alliance) and managing field teams
Experience in cocoa/vanilla value chains and cooperatives preferred

Skills & Competencies:

Fluency in English (written and oral)
Fluent in at least one of: Rutooro, Lubwisi, Lukonzo, Kwamba
Working proficiency in French and/or Swahili desired
High attention to detail, organisational and planning skills
Excellent communication and negotiation skills
Passion for sustainability and regenerative agriculture

How to Apply

About RCS Consult

RCS Consult is a professional consulting firm that provides advisory and technical support services to organisations across the public, private, and non-profit sectors. The firm supports clients to strengthen institutional performance through practical, results-driven solutions tailored to their operational and strategic needs. RCS Consult’s core areas of expertise typically include management and organisational development, human resource and capacity building, monitoring and evaluation, research and data analysis, project management, and policy or strategy development. The organisation works closely with clients to diagnose challenges, design appropriate interventions, and support implementation to ensure sustainable impact. Guided by a commitment to professionalism, integrity, quality, and client-centred service, RCS Consult combines technical expertise with local and regional context to deliver value-adding consultancy services. The firm is known for its collaborative approach, working alongside stakeholders to build internal capacity while delivering measurable outcomes.