Director of Standards

Leather Working Group (LWG) is a global not for profit multi-stakeholder initiative that supports and encourages the use of responsibly made leather as a sustainable material by inspiring, educating, and challenging those that produce and use leather. Through collaboration, convening, and standard setting, we are collectively creating a transparent leather value chain that achieves positive impacts aligned to the Sustainable Development Goals. Facilities that are certified against the LWG Audit Standard represent approximately one third of the world’s finished leather production. Working at Leather Working Group Our team works remotely and currently, mostly in the UK. We are committed to harnessing the strengths of the global leather industry to accelerate change towards climate and sustainability goals. A diverse group, we collaborate around the world with a broad group of partners that include brands, manufacturers, environmental experts, NGOs, and farmers to strengthen our expertise, impact, and reach. Leather Working Group offers a competitive compensation package that includes opportunities for continuing development. Joining the team is a chance to work with a leading not-for-profit organisation with a vision for a future where leather is sourced, produced, and used sustainably, protecting people and the planet. The Role Part of the senior management team, reporting to the Executive Director, you will be responsible for supporting the development of the strategic direction of the organisation. You will be accountable for ensuring the robust governance and development of the LWG sustainability standards thereby ensuring a high level of credibility and maintaining relevance of the organisation and the LWG certification. You will develop technical training and support for the implementation of the LWG sustainability standards, act as the LWG representative and a thought leader in these areas. You will be a strategic professional with experience of working at a senior level with Boards, Committees or Executive teams with an in-depth knowledge of standard setting. Proven experience within the leather or leather product, fashion and textiles or agricultural supply chains is an advantage. Key responsibilities Work closely with the Executive Director, other members of the LWG Senior Management Team, and Executive Committee to manage the strategic priorities and future direction of the organisation. Oversee the management and development of the LWG Sustainability Standards Responsible for establishing and maintaining compliance with the ISEAL Code of Good Practice for Sustainability Systems through the development and maintenance of the LWG Sustainability standards. Ensure the LWG Sustainability Standards are aligned with and support the delivery of agreed strategic impacts. Support the program & project management and technical groups and teams in the development and maintenance of the LWG Sustainability standards. This will include the selection and management relevant industry subject matter experts. Technical support and training Develop and execute a training strategy for leather manufacturers and relevant supply chain actors to support in the preparation for an LWG audit and promotion of best practises in the leather industry. General Line management of the Standards team Attend relevant events from time to time, proactively seeking out opportunities to represent LWG, promoting thought leadership Prepare and manage department budget Qualifications Educated to a degree level or equivalent A professional and confident individual with excellent interpersonal, communication and presentation skills The ability to provide effective leadership and motivate staff The ability to influence others with a good understanding of stakeholder management Proactive, confident decision maker – able to hit the ground running and quickly add value Membership of a professional institution, such as IEMA, would be preferred International experience preferred Program and project management experience preferred The ability and willingness to travel both in the UK and overseas when required, up to approximately 25% of the time Employment Package Reports to: Executive Director Full-Time Position, 37.5 Hours a Week Location: Virtual/Remote, preferred to be based in the UK. Start Date: As Soon as Available Our offers for salary and benefits are dependent on the region of the final candidate. We post most positions based on a UK-based Team member, but final offers are done in alignment with the final candidate’s permanent residence and in line with Leather Working Group’s regional employment package. How to Apply Please apply here (add LinkedIn Job ad link here). Applications will be considered on a rolling basis as they are submitted. Early application submission is strongly encouraged. Leather Working Group is committed to promoting equal opportunities in employment and creating a workplace culture in which diversity and inclusion is valued and everyone is treated with dignity and respect. As part of our zero-tolerance approach to discrimination in any form, any job applicants will receive equal treatment regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation (Protected Characteristics).