Job Description

About the RoleWe are hiring for a partner organization that leads sustainability initiatives in the edible oils sector. The organization is focused on promoting sustainable and climate-smart agriculture, ensuring that landscapes where oil palm is grown are managed responsibly, and that smallholders benefit from their inclusion in sustainable supply chains.The Senior Program Officer will play a key role in supporting and delivering this program in India. The role involves working closely with stakeholders including government bodies, private sector partners, and civil society organizations to drive policy discussions, market research, and sustainability efforts in the palm oil sector.Key Responsibilities

• Program Implementation & Strategy: Support the development and execution of a roadmap for sustainable palm oil initiatives in India in collaboration with the Senior Program Manager.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Assist in engaging with national/state governments, private sector partners, and civil society organizations to promote responsible palm oil production and consumption.
• Market Research & Analysis: Conduct research to understand domestic demand for sustainable palm oil, analyze trends, and assess sustainability challenges in the edible oils sector.
• Database Development: Build a comprehensive database of brands in India and abroad to facilitate connections between procurement teams and sustainable supply chains.
• Sustainability Solutions: Assist in designing strategies to address sustainability challenges in the palm oil and edible oils sector, including mapping stakeholders and co-creating programs.
• Knowledge Management & Reporting: Track market developments, industry trends, and sustainability initiatives, contributing to internal knowledge-sharing and reporting.
• Policy & Advocacy Support: Support research and documentation of policy developments related to sustainable palm oil and assist in aligning corporate policies with sustainability standards.
• Project Coordination: Ensure smooth implementation, monitoring, and reporting of pilot programs and sustainability initiatives.

Key Performance Indicators

• Effective management of internal project timelines and reporting structures.
• Successful coordination of stakeholder engagement activities and maintenance of stakeholder databases.
• Delivery of well-researched reports, insights, and recommendations on market trends and sustainability practices.
• Contribution to policy discussions and advocacy efforts in the palm oil and edible oils sector.
• Growth in engagement and partnerships with relevant organizations.

Qualifications & Experience

• 4+ years of experience in program management, market research, sustainability, or agribusiness.
• Educational Background: MBA in Agribusiness, Rural Development, Sustainability, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Proven track record in program execution and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong research and analytical skills, with an ability to assess sustainability challenges and market trends.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, in English.
• Willingness to travel as needed.

Preferred Skills

• Knowledge of the edible oils industry, supply chain sustainability, and certification schemes (e.g., RSPO, ISPO, MSPO).
• Experience in field research, data collection, and financial analysis of sustainability business cases.
• Understanding of policy frameworks related to sustainable agriculture and supply chains.

Competencies for Success

• Growth Mindset: Hands-on approach with a proactive working style.
• Agility: Ability to adapt to evolving program directions and challenges.
• Strategic Thinking: Supports informed decision-making and contributes to long-term program goals.
• Stakeholder Orientation: Builds and maintains strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Results-Driven: Ensures alignment of work with program and organizational objectives.
• Budget Awareness: Understanding of budget management and financial implications of sustainability programs.

This is an exciting opportunity for professionals passionate about sustainable agriculture, responsible sourcing, and market-driven environmental solutions. If you are eager to make an impact in the sustainability sector, we encourage you to apply!

Arthan