About our Organisation
Soil Association Certification Ltd exists to accelerate the just transition across food, farming and land use, as a global leader in sustainability certification. We deliver trusted solutions with nature, for people and planet through the certification of high integrity holistic standards. These assurance schemes cover a wide range of sectors including food, forestry, farming, landscape restoration, carbon markets, beauty and wellbeing, textiles and catering.
We are recognised and trusted by consumers and businesses around the world, operating in over 60 countries delivering FSC and PEFC certification, and you will also find the Soil Association organic symbol on over 70% of organic products in the UK.
Soil Association Certification is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Soil Association, formed in 1946, which is the only UK charity that works across the spectrum of human health, the environment and animal welfare. That’s because we cannot tackle these issues in isolation.
We campaign for change, we support farming innovation, we serve healthy food in communities, we support and grow the organic market, and we protect forests. We couldn't do any of this without our supporters, partners, donors and dedicated staff. We make a difference in the world where it’s needed the most.
About the Opportunity
As the Certification Manager, you will oversee a busy and evolving team of Certification Officers, ensuring they deliver outstanding service to our many farmers and growers seeking organic certification. You will play a key role in maintaining the integrity and efficiency of our certification processes while supporting your team in achieving their goals. Key responsibilities include:
1. Leading, managing, and mentoring the Certification Officers, ensuring high standards of performance and professional development.
2. Overseeing the day-to-day operations of the certification process, ensuring timely, accurate, and efficient service delivery.
3. Acting as a key point of contact for complex certification queries and decision-making.
4. Collaborating with internal teams and external stakeholders to uphold and promote organic standards.
5. Identifying areas for process improvement and implementing solutions to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction.
About You
We are looking for an enthusiastic, organised, and approachable leader with a passion for organic farming and sustainability. The ideal candidate will have:
1. Experience in team management, ideally within the agricultural, food, or certification sectors.
2. A strong understanding of the principles of organic farming and food production.
3. Experience in customer service delivery, with a focus on building positive client relationships.
4. Excellent organisational, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
5. The ability to work under pressure, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.
6. A keen eye for detail and commitment to maintaining high standards.
7. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
While experience in organic certification processes is desirable, we also welcome candidates with transferable skills from the agricultural or food production industries who are eager to learn and grow within this field.
Our Benefits
We offer a range of financial and lifestyle benefits to all our employees, including:
* 27 days annual holiday increasing to 30 days with length of service plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time)
* Pension scheme with ethical investment options and employer contribution increasing with length of service
* Free membership of the Soil Association and discounts on organic produce
* Volunteer days to give back to the local community or support green initiatives
* Family friendly policies and flexible working
* Cycle to work scheme
* Sociable and engaging workplace of professionals that share a passion for healthy, sustainable lifestyle and produce
Hours
37.5 hours per week
Location
Bristol with hybrid working (40% office based)
To Apply
Click ‘apply now’ to submit your application form. Please note we look at applications on arrival and reserve the right to close this vacancy early.
Please check your junk/spam folder if you do not receive a confirmation email upon submitting your application. All candidates will subsequently receive an email to confirm whether they have made it through to the interview stage.
For any queries, please contact recruitment@soilassociation.org
Please note we do not accept CVs or Cover Letters.
We know the value of diversity in nature and want it in our organisation. We recognise that diverse backgrounds and experiences will bring a fresh perspective to our work. If you're not sure about applying, please get in touch with us for a chat.
Thank you for your interest in supporting our work at the Soil Association.
#J-18808-Ljbffr