Seafarer Work & Welfare Program Manager

Do you have a strategic vision for human rights within complex supply chains and a strong commitment to the welfare of seafarers?

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Acre has partnered with Thai Union, a global leader in the seafood industry, to recruit a Seafarer Work & Welfare Program Manager. In this transformative role, you will lead efforts to improve seafarer work and welfare, championing Thai Union's commitment to create safe, fair, and dignified working conditions across the global fishing industry. By 2030, Thai Union aims for all partner vessels to align with industry-leading labor practices, making this role critical in driving these ambitious standards forward.

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About Thai Union

Thai Union is a global leader in the seafood industry, with $4 billion in revenue and approximately 50,000 employees worldwide. The company owns a portfolio of 18 global and regional brands, offering a broad range of shelf-stable, chilled, and frozen foods. Thai Union is redefining industry standards through its Fishing Vessel Improvement Program and Vessel Code of Conduct (VCoC), setting transparent and ethical guidelines for its suppliers. Despite the challenges seafood industry workers often face-long hours, hazardous conditions, and limited access to medical care-Thai Union is committed to providing safe and humane working environments for all.

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To learn more about Thai Union's social sustainability commitments, visit their website here, and explore their human rights sustainability goals here.

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What will you be doing in this role?

As the Seafarer Work & Welfare Program Manager, you will oversee the execution of Thai Union's Vessel Code of Conductand champion the Seafarer Work and Welfare Program, leading initiatives like Vessel Improvement Projects (VIPs) to create meaningful change across Thai Union's supply chain. Your contributions will extend beyond program management to direct collaboration with industry stakeholders, from NGOs and government bodies to seafood industry leaders, advocating for labor rights and supporting compliance with global sustainability standards. This role is part of the global procurement department and reports to the Global Procurement Director.

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Key Responsibilities

• Program Leadership: Oversee the daily implementation of the Vessel Code of Conduct, develop a global due diligence framework that complies with EU and US requirements, support and conduct audit programs, and lead Vessel Improvement Projects (VIPs) to advance Thai Union's Tuna Commitment and broader sustainability goals.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Represent Thai Union at industry events, task force meetings, and seafood expos, building strong relationships and networks within the industry.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with procurement, sustainability, and corporate affairs teams, supporting accurate data analysis and ensuring transparency across Thai Union's operations.

• Supply Chain Insights: Develop insights on Thai Union's supply chains, advise on risk mitigation strategies, and assess sourcing projections to strengthen procurement strategies.

• Advocacy and Legal Compliance: Create advocacy strategies addressing regulatory gaps, drive expansion into high-priority species, and ensure compliance with EU and US due diligence frameworks.

• Reporting and Documentation: Contribute to sustainability publications, case studies, and data sharing with partners like WWF, GGGI and Greenpeace, as well as meet retailer and stakeholder reporting requirements.

• Project Management: Lead new initiatives supporting crew welfare and work conditions, including partnerships for onboard connectivity, training programs, and other VCoC expansion efforts.

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Who are you, and what do you bring?

We know skills and competencies show up in many ways and can be based on your life experience. If you do not meet all the requirements listed, we still encourage you to speak to us about this opportunity.

• Expertise in Human and Labor Rights: Deep experience in human rights auditing, due diligence, and corrective action planning to meet global social standards.

• Project Management Skills: Proven track record of managing cross-functional projects, developing stakeholder relationships, and ensuring effective communication.

• Familiarity with Maritime and Seafaring Sectors: Knowledge of labor standards in the fishing industry and willingness to work in seafaring environments.

• Global Perspective: Understanding of international sustainability standards, national inspection protocols, and reporting requirements for seafood industries.

• Fluent English: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

• Location: This role can be based in either Utrecht or Paris and requires candidates to live within commuting distance or be willing to relocate.

• Willingness to Travel: Able to travel up to 60% across the European region to engage with vessel owners, crew members, and industry partners.

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Acre is supporting Thai Union in the hiring process for this position. If you would like to discuss this opportunity further, please get in touch with Jacopo Cesari at jacopo.cesari@acre.com.

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When contacting us, please mention the job title of the ad you applied for and attach an English CV or a link to your LinkedIn profile page.

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Please note that only applications directly through our website/LinkedIn will be considered.