RHP is an internationally recognised knowledge centre for potting soils and growing media. The core value of RHP is safeguarding quality and safety of growing media for plants and users. In recent years, increasing attention has been paid within the growing media supply chain to responsible sourcing and production of raw materials for substrates, as well as to reducing the environmental impact of growing media. RHP considers it important that users of growing media are objectively informed about quality, responsible sourcing and environmental impacts. To further implement this policy, RHP is looking to expand its team with a…

Manager Responsible Sourcing (32-40 hours)

Connector between quality and sustainability

As Manager Responsible Sourcing, you will shape the policy and practical implementation of responsible sourcing of raw materials within RHP. You will work on both the assessment system and communication towards the growing media sector and stakeholders.

A strong basis already exists in the form of the Responsibly Produced Peat (RPP) certification scheme, and the recently introduced Responsibly Produced Coir (RPC) scheme. For the assessment of the environmental impact of growing media, the sector is working on an international standard (GME LCA-tool). 

The assignment and challenge for the Manager Responsible Sourcing is to embed responsible sourcing and consideration of the environmental impact of growing media into daily practice across the sector, and that results within the supply chain are communicated clearly. You will contribute to the further development and implementation of certification schemes and, where possible, seek alignment with existing systems (assessment criteria) for responsible production chains of organic and mineral raw materials.

You will work in an international multi-stakeholder environment, involving representatives from industry (growing media and raw materials) and supply-chain partners, scientists and NGOs. The core of the role is connecting, motivating, communicating and preparing for decision-making.

We are looking for an entrepreneurial and collaborative professional with affinity for and knowledge of sustainability, the environment and the development of certification standards. You navigate international environments with ease and are a strong networker, genuinely engaging with the people you work with. In addition, you have numerical and financial insight, enabling you to provide informed guidance for the development of Responsible Sourcing within RHP.

We are looking for someone with:

• HBO (higher professional education) level of thinking and working, with at least 5 years of relevant work experience
• Knowledge of sustainability, environmental issues and certification standards
• Affinity with the horticulture and/or growing media sector
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
• Proficient in setting up and guiding effective consultation and decision-making processes
• Excellent collaboration skills, both internally and with external partners and users of Responsible Sourcing
• Overview and decisiveness, combined with patience and a long-term vision
• Good digital skills
• Good command of English; proficiency in Dutch is an advantage
• Ability to work from the office in ‘s-Gravenzande (The Netherlands) on a regular basis

At RHP, you will work in a small, close-knit expert team that will welcome you with open arms! RHP provides guidance and an introduction to the sector, the supply chain and external stakeholders. In addition, you can expect:

• A competitive monthly salary
• 27 days of annual leave based on full-time employment
• Participation in our pension scheme
• Fresh fruit at the office
• A versatile and varied position with international contacts and travel

Are you our new Manager Responsible Sourcing? Then send your CV and motivation directly to Martine Holtkamp, Managing Director of RHP, via holtkamp@rhp.nl or call her if you have any questions about the vacancy at +31 6 26 61 06 81.

Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated.