Work with ForestEthics

ABOUT FORESTETHICS

Founded in 2000, ForestEthics is a nonprofit environmental coalition operating in Canada and the United States. Our mission is to protect Endangered Forests and wild places, wildlife, and human wellbeing. We catalyze environmental leadership among industry, governments and communities by running hard-hitting and highly effective campaigns that leverage public dialogue and pressure to achieve our goals. Over the past decade, we have transformed the environmental practices of Fortune 500 companies including Dell, Staples, Office Depot, Victoria’s Secret, Williams-Sonoma, and many others; and by leveraging these companies’ influence with their suppliers and governments, we have helped secure commitments to protect more than 65 million acres of endangered forest around the world.

Current openings:

 

Communications Officer, ForestEthics Advocacy

Please note that this position is based in Vancouver, Canada.

ABOUT FORESTETHICS ADVOCACY ASSOCIATION
Founded in 2012, ForestEthics Advocacy (FEA) is a registered Canadian nonprofit society. FEA’s purpose is to conserve and protect the natural environments of Canada while allowing for their sustainable use. We advocate for industry-wide changes in the extraction, purchasing and sourcing of natural resources and seek to achieve large scale, legislated protection of Endangered Forests and wild places. FEA exists as part of a three-member coalition including ForestEthics Solutions Society (registered nonprofit society in Canada, founded in 2012) and ForestEthics (501c3 nonprofit organization in the United States, founded in 2000).

ForestEthics Coalition’s shared mission is to protect Endangered Forests and wild places, wildlife, and human wellbeing. We catalyze environmental leadership among industry, governments and communities by running hard-hitting and highly effective campaigns that leverage public dialogue and pressure to achieve our goals. Our current campaigns focus on fighting climate change, protecting wild places in Canada, and transforming industries that use products that come from these places. Our efforts have helped protect more than 65 million acres of forests and transformed the environmental practices of Fortune 500 companies including Whole Foods, Bed Bath and Beyond, Dell, Staples, Office Depot, Victoria’s Secret, and many others.

THE POSITION
Reporting to the Director of Programs, the Communications Officer will develop, coordinate and implement strategic communications and media plans for ForestEthics Advocacy’s campaigns. This is a full-time position with excellent benefits. Salary will be commensurate with experience. Preferred location is Vancouver, British Columbia with exceptions made for highly qualified candidates.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Work closely with campaigners to develop communications plans and strategic opportunities that leverage media – both news and social - to achieve campaign goals and objectives
  • Develop and maintain relationships with reporters, television producers, and other news decision-makers in the Canada
  • Produce written materials including press releases, press advisories, op-eds, letter to the editors, fact sheets, and background materials
  • Work closely with ForestEthics coalition partners including online communications specialist to create and implement online communications and media strategies
  • Produce online content such as blog posts, email blasts, social media posts, etc.
  • Identify, brief, and train spokespeople within ForestEthics
  • Provide ongoing advice about media strategies for each campaign
  • Facilitate the needs of media requests including written materials, spokespeople, etc.
  • Write quickly and succinctly, and respond efficiently to breaking news
  • Coordinate media events such as press conferences
  • Create and maintain media lists, including social media contact information

QUALIFICATIONS

  • 3+ years experience working in a media outlet or communications/media department of a non-profit organization
  • Experience creating social media campaigns and creating metrics-based strategies
  • Understanding of and experience engaging online communities
  • Sound news judgment and solid contacts in both news and feature media
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment
  • Interest in or passion for the mission of ForestEthics Advocacy
  • Proven experience in writing and editing for news and feature media
  • Experience writing query letters and pitching to feature media outlets
  • Exercises creativity in writing, project approach, and problem solving
  • Ability to handle numerous tasks at one time
  • Ability to travel as needed
  • Fluency in written and spoken English
  • Knowledge of forest and climate issues and market campaigns
  • Computer proficiency in basic computer applications including spreadsheet, word processing and database software, contact management systems and internet programs such as cloud storage and project management platforms, along with social media management tools and metrics collection
  • Demonstrated track record of collaboration and ability to work independently
  • Ability to think and act strategically
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with off-site coworkers
  • High reasoning skills as demonstrated by the ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists; ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form

TO APPLY
Please submit your resume and cover letter to: CommsOfficer@forestethicsadvocacy.org. Be sure to include your name in the subject line and on all attachments. We thank you for your interest, but only those selected for interviews will be contacted. No phone calls please.
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Operations & HR Associate

THE POSITION
The Operations & HR Associate works closely with the Chief Operating Officer (COO), assisting with the management of ForestEthics’ human resources, operations and information technology programs and systems. The Operations & HR Associate will coordinate and implement organization wide policies and procedures that align with best practices in the field and fully support the organizational culture of ForestEthics. Reporting to the COO, this is a full-time, exempt position. Compensation includes a competitive salary commensurate with experience and an excellent package of employee and health benefits. This position provides an exciting opportunity to join a world-class team of environmental leaders.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Human Resources

  • Maintain and update HR policies and procedures to align with and support ForestEthics’ culture of feedback and authentic communication
  • Coordinate and manage all recruitment, hiring, termination, and performance review processes
  • Understand applicable labor laws in each of our regions and ensure compliance
  • Review and update employee handbook on a regular basis
  • In consultation with the COO, ensure that all HR matters are handled appropriately and in compliance with applicable local, state, and federal regulations and laws
  • Responsible for ensuring all employee personnel files are complete, accurate and up to date
  • Draft and approve all hire letters and contracts for new employees and contractors
  • Administer benefits programs, including FSA, health plans, COBRA, pension plans, vacation and sick accrual program (in partnership with our professional employment organization, TriNet)
  • Coordinate new hire orientation processes
  • Act as 401k Plan representative, including handling all aspects of enrollment, changes and rollovers, and acting as point-of-contact for distribution requests from former staff
  • Administer worker’s compensation and unemployment claims
  • Prepare employee separation notices and related employee status change paperwork

Operations

  • Coordinate part-time administrative staff
  • Facilitate all office purchases, outside vendor contracts, equipment, rentals and leases
  • Oversee day-to-day office maintenance, office systems/equipment and general up keep
  • Monitor and assist with the negotiation of leases for all offices
  • Manage and track departmental budget
  • Oversee all logistics and travel planning for the ForestEthics’ annual staff retreat (transportation, accommodations, food, staff readiness, retreat budget)
  • Negotiate and secure insurance coverage, including certificates of insurance, keeping inventory of covered assets, processing all requests for insurance coverage changes, and securing annual property, D&O, and liability insurance
  • Direct Information Technology (IT) service providers and draft and manage contracts for IT and related services
  • Assist the COO in identifying and overseeing implementation of technology solutions and performing periodic technology needs assessments

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Commitment to and/or strong interest in the mission of ForestEthics
  • 2 or more years experience in Human Resources and/or Operations (non-profit preferred)
  • Bachelor’s Degree or higher
  • Very high level interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to navigate and negotiate nuanced and complicated situations with confidence and authority
  • Demonstrated ability to manage highly sensitive information and maintain confidentiality
  • Proven ability to think strategically and tactically while also managing details
  • Strong time management skills
  • High degree of organization
  • Basic understanding of information technology including networking, tech support coordination, phone and email systems, as well as familiarity with PC and Mac software
  • Ability and willingness to operate across a continuum of activities, from the strategic to the routine
  • Intermediate math skills as demonstrated by the ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, and percentages; and apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry
  • Very high reasoning skills as demonstrated by the ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions
  • Highest language skills as demonstrated by the ability to read, analyze, and interpret the most complex documents; ability to respond effectively to the most sensitive inquiries or complaints; ability to make effective and persuasive presentations to management, public groups, and/or boards of directors
  • Computer proficiency in basic computer applications, including spreadsheet, word processing and internet
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment

PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

  • Confidence and creativity
  • Maturity of judgment and operating talent to achieve credibility and influence with senior management team members, staff members, and peer organizations
  • Committed to the values of diversity, open communication and inclusiveness
  • A sense of humor and ability to find joy in engaging with a dynamic team

TO APPLY
Please send a resume and cover letter to OpsHrAssociate@forestethics.org with your name in the 
subject line and on each attachment. No phone calls, please. Only those who will be interviewed will be contacted.

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Staff Organizer, US Campaigns

THE POSITION    
The Staff Organizer for US Campaigns will work primarily with the US Tar Sands and Stop SFI Greenwash Campaigns to build field capacity and implement field tactics such as protests, petitions, rallies, and educational events. The Staff Organizer will recruit, train and develop teams of activists in strategic regions to carry out this work. In addition, the Staff Organizer will provide support as needed to other campaigns, and grow the overall field presence of the organization. The Staff Organizer is responsible for promoting and protecting ForestEthics’ brand in field events the organization The position is FLSA Exempt and reports to Aaron Sanger, Director, US Campaigns.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
US Campaigns

  • Design powerful, innovative and effective field tactics for the US Tar Sands and Stop SFI Greenwash campaigns in consultation with US campaigners and the outreach team.
  • Recruit, train and develop teams of activists in strategically selected US cities.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with coalition partners who can provide field support to US campaigns.
  • Represent the campaigns and act as on-the-ground spokesperson at conferences, events, trainings etc. as needed.
  • Assist in the creation of campaign materials such as factsheets, postcards and activist toolkits.
  • Work with outreach and development departments to effectively recruit online support (including monetary donations) for US campaigns and to develop effective campaign messaging in ForestEthics social media.
  • Recruit, train and develop grassroots leadership for US campaigns.
  • Identify and work with existing networks to support turnout at US campaign events.
  • Create compelling report backs of field activities including: high-quality photos, high-quality video, direct stories from activists in the field, and assist in the creation of blogs.

Organizational

  • Grow and maintain a base of field activists for all ForestEthics campaigns.
  • Maintain and manage relevant databases and ensure that activist information is kept updated, and campaigners have access to field networks as needed.
  • Assist in the development of organizational policies such as campaign list-sharing and standard contact databasing.
  • Support, as needed, the growth and development of a comprehensive program for organizing work that supports ForestEthics campaigns.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • 3-5 years organizing experience, with experience in markets campaigns strongly preferred;
  • Independent, self-motivated with a desire to advance ForestEthics’ mission;
  • Enthusiasm and passion for campaign organizing;
  • Demonstrated success managing volunteers, identifying organizational needs, and problem solving with minimal supervision;
  • Highly organized, flexible, creative, able to prioritize multiple tasks, and able to thrive in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment;
  • Knowledge of SalesForce (or similar relationship management database) a plus;
  • Excellent project management, follow-through, and time management skills;
  • Excellent interpersonal skills;
  • Ability to travel regionally;
  • Experience with media and fundraising a plus.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Talk, hear
  • Clear vision at 25 inches or less to view computer screen and read documents
  • Must be able to sit at desk and work on a computer for long periods of time
  • May have to climb stairs to reach office
  • Working conditions typical of an office environment
  • Exposure to moderate levels of noise such as computers, printers, light traffic

TO APPLY
Please send cover letter with resume to usorganizer@forestethics.org with your name in the subject line. No phone calls please. We thank you for your application, but only applicants under consideration will be contacted.

Senior US Tar Sands Campaigner

THE POSITION

The Senior US Tar Sands Campaigner will work in the US to move Fortune 1000 companies away from Tar Sands fuels and to create greater awareness and concern in the US about growing dependence on Tar Sands oil. Fortune 1000 companies are central to the ForestEthics campaign against Canada’s Tar Sands because the biggest US corporations represent a large part of US demand for transportation fuel, the primary end-product derived from Canada’s Tar Sands. The campaigner will work to hold companies using Tar Sands fuels accountable and will employ a range of campaign tools, including market place campaigning, negotiation, community organizing and coalition building.  Preferred location:  Bellingham, Washington.  This is a full-time, exempt position with excellent benefits and salary based on the successful applicant’s experience level.  The position will remain open until filled.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Responsible for direct contact to persuade Fortune 1000 companies to adopt positions and policies against Canada’s Tar Sands.
  • Work with Market Solutions department to support its work on Tar Sands with companies.
  • Directly organize and coordinate activist and ally involvement in the US Tar Sands campaign.
  • Create and advance campaign plans that will secure regular media coverage for the US Tar Sands campaign.
  • Work with supervisor to develop and execute all strategies and tactics of the US Tar Sands campaign.
  • Develop and secure approval to execute specific campaign project plans.
  • Supervise, motivate and develop staff, identify and manage conflicts effectively where they may arise.
  • Work with staff organizers and communications department to recruit online, field and media on media and materials for the US Tar Sands campaign.
  • Participate in all campaign planning activities and meetings.
  • Provide regular update on campaign activities.
  • Track web site to insure information is up-to-date and accurate.
  • Manage virtual collaboration workspace for campaign.
  • Propose job descriptions for interns.
  • Supervise interns in the performance of their jobs.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • 5+ years specific experience in corporate campaigns required, with additional years of other campaign experience strongly preferred.
  • Requires high level of proven ability to persuade highly resistant decision makers.
  • Requires high level of proven ability to secure campaign media coverage.
  • Demonstrated track record of effective teamwork and coalition building as well as ability to work independently.
  • Excellent project management, follow-through, and time management skills.
  • Experience with grant writing and budgeting preferred.
  • Ability to think and act strategically.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Strong math skills as demonstrated by the ability to work with and apply mathematical concepts such as probability, statistical inference, fractions, percentages, and ratios.
  • Very high reasoning skills as demonstrated by the ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions and deal with abstract and concrete variables.
  • High language skills as demonstrated by the ability to read, write, analyze, and interpret general professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Talk, hear
  • Clear vision at 25 inches or less to view computer screen and read documents
  • Must be able to sit at desk and work on a computer for long periods of time
  • Capacity to handle high levels of stress productively
  • May have to climb stairs to reach office
  • Working conditions typical of an office environment
  • Exposure to moderate levels of noise such as computers, printers, light traffic

TO APPLY

Please send cover letter with resume to tarsandscampaigner (at) forestethics.org with your name in the subject line. No phone calls please. We thank you for your application, but only applicants under consideration will be contacted.