Certification Manager (Forestry & Sustainability)

About the role

The Certification Manager will lead the development and execution of our client’s forestry and sustainability certification strategy across all operations in Gabon. Reporting to the Director General, the role ensures full compliance with international forest management, chain‑of‑custody and other sustainability standards while supporting continuous improvement.

Key responsibilities

• Design, implement and continuously improve the Certification Management System (CMS).
• Lead all certification activities for forestry concessions, sawmills, camps and QHSE functions.
• Ensure compliance with Forest Management (FM), Chain of Custody (CoC) and related sustainability frameworks.
• Develop, maintain and update certification policies, procedures and operational documentation.
• Plan, coordinate and facilitate internal and external audits; act as primary liaison with certification bodies and auditors.
• Prepare operational sites for assessments and represent the company during audits.
• Build and manage a high‑performing certification team and foster a culture of compliance.
• Coordinate cross‑functional teams (Operations, HR, Executive Management) to drive certification projects from planning through implementation.

Required profile

• Proven experience managing forestry or sustainability certifications (FM, CoC, etc.).
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to work on remote concessions and engage diverse stakeholders.
• Excellent communication and relationship‑building abilities with government, communities and international bodies.
• Relevant degree in Forestry, Environmental Science, Natural Resources or a related field.

Required skills

• In‑depth knowledge of international forestry certification standards (FM, CoC).
• Audit planning and execution.
• Project management and documentation control.
• Stakeholder engagement and negotiation.
• Understanding of QHSE principles and sustainable forest management practices.

What we offer

• Strategic leadership position in a fast‑growing, internationally recognized timber company.
• Dynamic, multicultural work environment with exposure to global sustainability standards.
• 2‑year renewable contract with competitive compensation.
• On‑site role based in Libreville, Gabon, with opportunities for professional growth.