Forest & Climate Program Manager

Barry Callebaut seeks a Senior Forest & Climate Program Manager in Zürich to lead forest protection and agroforestry initiatives aligned with its sustainability targets.

This position focuses on directing the design and execution of forest protection and agroforestry strategies to help the organization achieve its environmental goals. The role supports the broader corporate mission to become Forest Positive by 2025, decarbonize operations by 2030, and reach net-zero emissions by 2050.

Responsibilities

• Identify and create forest protection initiatives in regions where cocoa cultivation drives deforestation, aiming to reduce associated risks.
• Manage the global agroforestry program alongside local origin teams and external partners.
• Build and refine the operational model and strategic roadmap for agroforestry efforts.
• Track and communicate progress on forest protection and agroforestry to internal groups, while assisting with external reports for clients and other stakeholders.
• Assist in enhancing climate-focused customer solutions to secure additional funding for nature-related programs.
• Provide support to client-facing teams during meetings and in their preparatory work.
• Contribute to the global climate and nature strategy and aid in its implementation as part of the corporate Thriving Nature team.

Requirements

• A PhD or MSc in natural resource management, forestry, or agronomy.
• At least a decade of experience in creating and executing agroforestry or sustainable forest management programs.
• Willingness to work on-site in Zürich.
• Proven ability to partner with corporations on sustainability commitments.
• Deep knowledge of land use issues and deforestation challenges.
• Strong grasp of best practices in forest protection, sustainable forest management, and agroforestry.
• Capacity to function effectively in international and multicultural settings.
• Skill in coordinating with large, complex remote teams without direct hierarchical control.
• A demonstrated history of successful team leadership.

Nice to have

• Proficiency in both English and French.

About the company

Barry Callebaut is dedicated to achieving a 'Forest Positive' status and ensuring compliance with the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). These efforts are part of a wider corporate strategy focused on creating thriving natural ecosystems.

• Commitment to a 'Forest Positive' target.
• Focus on EUDR compliance strategy.
• Broader 'Thriving Nature' corporate strategy.