Global Product and Accreditation Manager, Forest Management Certification

We are SGS – the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world.

At SGS, we have an open corporate and international culture. We offer a dynamic work environment in a leading global company. Our high professional standards and our sustainability approach guarantee you a future-oriented work environment. We invest in our employees for the long term and are committed to supporting your development within the company. Our business principles include: Integrity, Health, Safety & Environment, Quality & Professionalism, Respect, Sustainability, and Leadership.

1. MAIN PURPOSE OF THE JOB

Manager of the SGS Global Forest Management Certification business, responsible for FSC Forest Management accreditation and oversight of local PEFC FM accreditations. Supports the Global Forestry Team in the development and growth of the Forest Management business.

2. REPORTING STRUCTURE

The role will report to the  Global Head Forestry and Nature.

3.  RESPONSIBILITIES

• • Lead the global development of the Business Assurance (BA) Forest Management certification business (FSC FM and PEFC FM).
  • Manage the FSC Forest Management accreditation and oversee, support, and supervise local PEFC FM accreditations.
  • Coordinate accreditation body audits and ensure timely and effective closure of accreditation findings.
  • Manage complaints and appeals in accordance with SGS policies, procedures, and accreditation requirements.
  • Prepare and provide required information for Advisory Board meetings.
  • Ensure certification competence, including auditor approval and sign‑off of certification functions in the role of Technical Approval Authority (TAA).
  • Oversee quality management activities and monitor the performance of SGS delivering affiliates.
  • Coordinate and conduct internal technical audits in line with the global internal audit plan.
  • Coordinate Level 1 (L1) audits within the scope of the accreditations.
  • Coordinate and oversee technical reviews of certification reports to ensure compliance with accreditation requirements and robust certification decision‑making.
  • Perform technical reviews of Forest Management reports as required.
  • Provide timely technical support and guidance to assigned SGS affiliates.
  • Ensure that all records are properly maintained in accordance with accreditation requirements.
  • Ensure the accurate and ongoing maintenance of the FSC database.
  • Ensure compliance with all quality and safety requirements of the SGS management system.
  • Conduct FSC Forest Management audits as assigned, where required.
  • Perform other reasonable tasks as assigned by the direct line manager.

4.  SPECIFIC AUTHORITIES

• • Cease the use of any equipment that may be deemed to constitute a safety hazard or enter hazardous environments without the necessary knowledge and protection and report the situation to higher authority to take action.
  • Cease to carry on with work that may affect the quality (integrity) of services and report the situation to higher authority to take action.
  • Initiate a formal improvement request when a deviation of the system occurs, possible improvements are identified or when nonconformity is identified.

Education:

• • Tertiary education in Forest Management or equivalent professional training and work experience.
  • Forest Management Lead Auditor.
  • Chain of Custody Lead Auditor of advantage

Experience:

• • Experience with the Management of Accreditations and cooperation with Accreditation Bodies
  • FSC FM Lead Auditor experience
  • Business Management experience
  • Operations experience in an accredited environment
  • Work experience in Forestry

Competencies

• • Leadership skills ability to drive and lead change
  • Analytical, decisive, adaptable, ethical, problem solver, persuasive, commercially-sensitive
  • Customer and commercial focus
  • Highly developed presentation skills and ability to interact effectively with senior government officials, and senior management of organizations
  • Teamwork with ability to operate without close supervision
  • Computer literate
  • Verbal & written communication skills in English, Multiple language proficiency an advantage

Please kindly send your CV in English.

This is a global role that can be performed remotely and we are open to applicants that hold a valid work permit for their country of residence. 

Why SGS?

• Global company, world leader in the TIC (Testing, Inspection and Certification) industry.
• Flexible schedule and hybrid model.
• SGS university and Campus for continuos learning options.
• Multinational environment where you will work with colleagues from multiple continents.
• Benefits platform.

Join Us: At SGS we believe in innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.  We offer a supportive and inclusive work environment that encourages professional growth and personal development.