The Fair Trade Association is a network member of the World Fair Trade Organisation that unites people, enterprises, organisations and communities who seek a more just world through Fair Trade.
The Fair Traders of Australia Endorsement Program
The Fair Trade Association operates an independent and confidential third-party verification program to assess members' implementation of Fair Trade principles in their business practices. Rooted in a philosophy of continuous improvement, the program provides guidance and mentorship throughout the endorsement process, using the Association’s Fair Trade Standard, which is aligned with the World Fair Trade Organization’s (WFTO) 10 Principles of Fair Trade.
Applicants are supported in developing an Internal Management System (IMS) that aligns with both global best practices and the realities of their day-to-day operations. Once endorsed, businesses are licensed to use the Fair Traders of Australia Mark to communicate their values to customers.
The roles of Mentor and Assessor are distinct within the program, ensuring both support and objective assessment.
Through this program, the Fair Trade Association advocates for the global Fair Trade movement in the region while empowering Australian businesses to demonstrate their commitment to social justice, equality, and environmental sustainability. Verified businesses gain a credible, independent endorsement that reassures consumers and stakeholders of their fair and ethical practices.
Position Scope:
The FToA Endorsed Fair Traders Assessor is responsible for managing the endorsement process for businesses aiming to become endorsed as Fair Traders of Australia. The assessor will assess applications against the WFTO standards to ensure businesses meet the criteria.
What you will do:
- Provide bi-monthly written updates to the Executive Committee
- Review all endorsement applications to ensure that all requirements for endorsement have been met.
- Provide constructive feedback to applicants
- Make recommendations to the mentor team and Executive Committee in relation to improvements in the endorsement program to better assist candidates on their journey to endorsement.
- Recommend new endorsements to the Executive Committee for approval.
- Maintain the data base of completed endorsements.
- Proactively schedule and perform periodic post endorsement audits.
- Maintain the endorsement audit files for potential review by WFTO should FTA decide to pursue a process of reciprocal membership.
- Ensure all privacy legislation is adhered to in relation to data bases maintained.
Requirements for Assessor for the FTA Endorsement Programme:
- Excellent written English is essential.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to speak with business owners from non-financial backgrounds without financial jargon.
- Degree qualified with CA/CPA credentials plus 5 years working experience.
- Experience with or knowledge of Fair Trade, or at least of social corporate responsibility standards.
- Good knowledge of Fair Trade, social, economic issues, development issues and labour rights.
Experience
At least 5 years audit experience, of which 2 years in a relevant field of work.
Skills
- Interpersonal communication skills.
- Respectful relations with others.
- Sensitivity to social, cultural, political, religious, and environmental conditions.
- Reporting and analytical skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word (must have)
- Basic understanding of Google Docs (must have)
- Familiarity with project management tools such as Asana (preferable)
- Project management skills to manage the assessment process (must have)
- Excellent communication skills (must have)
- Ability to work independently
- Prior experience in conducting certifications or assessments (preferable)
- Analytical skills to assess compliance with WFTO standards
- Attention to detail to ensure thorough review and accuracy in assessments
- Strong interpersonal skills to build relationships and manage queries
- Commitment to Fair Trade principles and practices
How to Apply
Submit your resume and cover letter expressing why you are interested in this role to info@fta.org.au
