Ethical Trade Manager Job Description

Promoting Social Responsibility ​in Global Commerce

As businesses increasingly recognize the importance of ethical practices and social responsibility, the role of an Ethical Trade Manager becomes vital in ensuring sustainable and responsible business operations. You will find below an overview of the job description, including mission description, required skills, background and sectors of origin, and salary ranges in the UK, US, Europe, and the Middle East (in USD per annum).

Ethical Trade Manager

As an Ethical Trade Manager, your primary mission is to develop, implement, and monitor ethical trade policies and practices within an organisation. You will collaborate with stakeholders, including suppliers, employees, and local communities, to drive positive change and foster ethical business conduct across the supply chain. Your efforts will contribute to promoting fair trade, human rights, labor standards, environmental sustainability, and community development.

Background and Sectors

Ethical Trade Managers typically come from diverse educational backgrounds such as business administration, supply chain management, international relations, or social sciences. They may have previous experience in roles related to supply chain management, sustainability, corporate social responsibility, or auditing.
While Ethical Trade Managers can be found across various sectors, they are especially prevalent in industries such as apparel and textiles, consumer goods, electronics, food and agriculture, and manufacturing.

Promoting Sustainable Practices in Global Supply Chains

  • Compliance and Standards: Thorough knowledge of international ethical trade standards and frameworks such as Fairtrade, SA8000, Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI), and Global Reporting Initiative (GRI).
  • Supply Chain Management: Proficiency in assessing and managing supply chains, conducting due diligence, and implementing sustainable procurement practices.
  • Auditing and Assessments: Experience in conducting social compliance audits, risk assessments, and impact assessments to identify gaps and areas for improvement.
  • Training and Education: Ability to develop and deliver training programs to raise awareness and build capacity on ethical trade principles and practices.
  • Reporting and Metrics: Aptitude in developing and managing reporting systems to track and measure progress towards ethical trade goals and key performance indicators (KPIs).
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Strong communication and collaboration skills to engage with diverse stakeholders, including suppliers, NGOs, industry associations, and government entities.

Soft Skills

Communication and Stakeholder Management

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to build relationships, influence stakeholders, and promote ethical trade initiatives.

Negotiation and Conflict Resolution

Ability to negotiate with suppliers, address conflicts, and find mutually beneficial solutions.

Leadership and Influence

Effective leadership skills to drive change, inspire teams, and foster a culture of ethical responsibility.

Ethical Awareness and Integrity

A strong ethical compass and integrity to champion ethical trade practices and act as an advocate for social responsibility.

Problem-Solving and Adaptability

Resourceful problem-solving skills to address complex ethical dilemmas and adapt to evolving industry and societal expectations.

Salary Range

Salary ranges can vary depending on factors such as geographic location, company size, industry, and level of experience. The following approximate salary ranges provide a general overview:

United Kingdom

$50,000 - $90,000

United States

$60,000 - $110,000

Europe

$55,000 - $95,000

Middle East

$45,000 - $85,000

​Please note that salary ranges provided are approximate figures and can vary based on factors specific to each job market and organisation.

Role Summary

As an Ethical Trade Manager, you play a crucial role in advancing social responsibility and ethical business practices. Your responsibilities include developing and implementing ethical trade policies, conducting audits, engaging stakeholders, and driving positive change across the supply chain. With a focus on sustainability, fair trade, and human rights, you contribute to shaping a more responsible and equitable global commerce landscape.

Who we are and What we do

We are an exclusive Sustainability and ESG Executive Search and Recruitment Agency, offering both permanent and temporary contracts recruitment solutions, across all sectors. We assist employers find their next great hire in ESG and Sustainability Integration/ Green Energy & CleanTech/ Responsible Investment, Sustainable Finance & Impact Investing.

The Paris Agreement at COP21 identified capacity building as a core challenge our governments, institutions, organisations and civil society need to overcome to build a sustainable world.
Companies need to build business strategies and develop activities to keep growing and create value for their shareholders without exhausting resources or harming future generations. Therefore, engaging in building a decarbonised and equitable economy is at the core of their mission and success in the long term. Their ability to build resilience of human and ecological systems will enable them to navigate this ever-evolving world.
As a recruitment agency, we truly believe, we have a substantial part to play in equipping those thriving businesses with the best candidates to conquer those challenges.
Our purpose is to support businesses in their sustainability journey by connecting them with the best talents in the ESG and Sustainability job market.
We focus to provide tailored solutions to our clients’ needs and enhance candidates’s experience in finding their ideal jobs.

Qualifications and Education: Building Expertise in the Field

In terms of qualifications, academic programs and certifications in sustainability and ESG management have gained prominence. Universities and professional organisations offer courses and certifications that equip individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the field. Additionally, relevant degrees in environmental science, sustainability, business administration, and finance are highly valued by employers.
The ESG and sustainability job market is experiencing significant growth and offers diverse opportunities for professionals. Dedicated roles, as well as the integration of ESG knowledge into traditional job functions, highlight the increasing importance of sustainability in business strategies. Specialized skills, regulatory expertise, and industry knowledge are highly sought after.
​As companies strive to embed ESG practices into their operations, professionals with ESG expertise will continue to play a crucial role in driving positive change and shaping a sustainable future.

Diverse Opportunities: ESG and Sustainability Across Industries

The ESG and sustainability job market is not limited to specific industries. While sectors such as renewable energy, cleantech, and sustainable finance have a well-established presence, organisations across diverse industries are recognizing the need to prioritize ESG and sustainability practices. From manufacturing and retail to technology and healthcare, professionals with ESG expertise are sought after to drive sustainability initiatives and help companies future-proof their operations.

Navigating the Regulatory Landscape: Compliance and Governance Expertise

The increasing regulatory focus on ESG factors has led to a rise in demand for professionals who can navigate the evolving compliance landscape. Knowledge of relevant regulations and frameworks, such as the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), is highly valued. This includes expertise in managing ESG risks, conducting audits and assessments, and implementing sustainable governance structures.

Specialised Skills and Knowledge: Key Areas in High Demand

The ESG and sustainability job market also offers opportunities for specialised skills and knowledge. Professionals with expertise in renewable energy, circular economy, sustainable supply chain management, impact investing, and environmental conservation are in high demand. Additionally, individuals with experience in sustainability reporting frameworks, such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) or Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), are sought after to ensure transparent and standardized reporting.

ESG Expertise in Traditional Job Roles: The Integration of Sustainability Principles

Another emerging trend is the growing importance of ESG expertise in traditional job roles. Professionals in finance, legal, marketing, operations, and human resources are increasingly expected to have a solid understanding of ESG principles and their implications for their respective fields. For example, financial analysts need to assess the financial risks and opportunities associated with ESG factors, while marketing professionals must effectively communicate a company’s sustainability initiatives to consumers.

Dedicated ESG and Sustainability Roles: A Shift Towards Holistic Approaches

One significant trend in the job market is the rise in dedicated ESG and sustainability roles. Previously, these responsibilities were often dispersed across different departments, such as corporate social responsibility, environmental management, or investor relations. However, as companies recognize the need for a holistic approach, they are creating specialised positions such as ESG managers, ESG analysts, and corporate sustainability officers. These roles focus on integrating ESG considerations into business strategies, measuring and reporting on sustainability performance, and engaging with stakeholders.

ESG and Sustainability Job Market Trends

The ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and sustainability integration job market has experienced significant growth and transformation in recent years. As companies worldwide recognize the importance of incorporating ESG principles into their operations, the demand for professionals with expertise in this field has surged. This article will explore the evolving landscape of the ESG and sustainability job market, highlighting key trends and opportunities.
The integration of ESG and sustainability practices into business strategies has become a top priority for organisations across industries. This shift is driven by various factors, including the increasing awareness of climate change, social justice issues, and corporate governance standards. As a result, companies are actively seeking professionals who can navigate the complexities of ESG and sustainability and drive positive change within their organizations.