GENERAL SCOPE OF POSITION:

As Product Specialist with Fairtrade Canada, you will lead and oversee the development and growth of profitable new business, and develop and maintain key relationships with companies located in Canada and internationally. As a sales and key account manager, you will engage accounts to offer more Fairtrade certified products, actively promote Fairtrade to their consumer base, and deepen their commitments to Fairtrade. In addition, you will also be responsible for bringing in new clients which will deepen the impact for Fairtrade producers.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Grow assigned product categories in Canada in line with budget objectives.
Account management for new and existing clients within assigned categories, delivering to agreed KPI metrics.
Manage all consultations and communication with Category actors (including global accounts and producers) and Fairtrade International’s relevant Global Product Manager and Committees.
Work with client brands to assist their launch plans for new Fairtrade products and involve them in Fairtrade Canada’s marketing promotions.
Conduct business development by educating potential and existing clients of the Fairtrade system through presentations, trade show attendance, speaking engagements and general education about the services our program offers.
Oversee and help build the supply chains for clients in Canada, liaise with Fairtrade Canada Mark Integrity department and Fairtrade International’s Producer Relations team to assist clients and producers to connect within the Fairtrade supply chain.
Manage and maintain database of Fairtrade certified clients and products; uses databases to connect supply and demand in assigned product categories.
Monitor and track client and category performance to ensure on time delivery of key objectives; compile data and report statistics for internal and external requirements.
Keep abreast of product and market knowledge and growth opportunities for assigned categories.
Participate in internal consultations and committee work with our umbrella organization, Fairtrade International (located in Germany), and Fairtrade International membership worldwide.
Contribute towards policies and procedures on working specifically with Fair Trade Organizations.
Investigate illegitimate Fairtrade certified claims and trademark infringement to ensure integrity of the system and protection of the FAIRTRADE Mark.
Ensure that the Business Development Director is consulted, kept advised and well informed on all financial and contractual matters.
Maintain inter-departmental communication with Fairtrade Canada departments, as required, assuring successful account management.
Carry out assignments and instructions of the Business Development Director, as required.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor or Masters degree in Business is preferred, preferably with a focus in Sustainable or International Development or equivalent.
Minimum 3 years’ experience working within the commercial sector with experience in sales and/or marketing. Must show demonstrated success working in global food supply chain environment, commodity marketing, or equivalent.
Experience working within the fair trade certified environment, Canadian organic sector and/or fair trade accounts or product labeling is considered a significant asset.
Knowledge of international and national policies and regulations for the Canadian food sector is desired.
Fluent in English and French (oral and written) is a minimum requirement. Spanish is considered an asset.
Knowledge of CRM and Microsoft applications.
Knowledge and passion about environmental and social issues of international trade, development and conscientious consumption.

SPECIAL ATTRIBUTES:

Customer centric in your approach;
Excellent oral and written communications skills;
Excellent presentation skills;
High personal integrity and honesty;
High interpersonal and priority management skills;
Able to work in a team environment.

SALARY RANGE:

Commensurate with experience

In addition, Fairtrade Canada offers an excellent benefits package

TO APPLY:

Please submit your letter of interest, resume and references to Shannon Brown, Director of Business Development to:
shannon.brown@fairtrade.ca
by 5pm EST on January 22, 2016.