Our Client
Esco Uganda is a family-owned business active in sustainable trade of cocoa, vanilla and other products with smallholder farmers in Uganda. From a Christian worldview they believe in making a positive impact through working with smallholder farmers. This not only by creating a fair and sustainable cocoa and vanilla chain, but also by charitable giving to local communities.
They are a very well-established name in the market, with a history tracing back to 1956. Esco Uganda currently employs around 150 people and work with +/- 50.000 small holder farmers throughout the different commodities, providing them with quality inputs and training. The farmers are located in Uganda and DR Congo.
The role
Leopard Recruitment and Esco Uganda are looking for a Group Head of Sustainability to further drive Esco’s sustainability, certification and environmental agenda. You will ensure they continue to comply with global standards (e.g. EUDR, Rainforest Alliance, Organic, Fair Trade). You will stay ahead of new and upcoming certification initiatives and support the trading team by managing customers’ sustainability requirements.
Another part of the role is to manage the Esco Uganda.’s charitable giving. You will support a variety of projects aimed to improve the livelihoods of local communities. Besides this you will also lead Esco’s internal sustainability initiatives to reduce Esco’s environmental footprint and ensure a positive contribution to the environment
Location: Kampala, Uganda
Sector: Commodity Trading
Key responsibilities
- Lead the development and execution of Esco’s sustainability strategy, aligned with company values, buyer expectations and global frameworks. Integrate sustainability KPIs and impact measurement (livelihood/environment/social) into company operations
- Responsible for Esco’s certification and EUDR departments, ensuring full compliance and audit readiness (Rainforest Alliance, Organic, Fairtrade etc).
- Responsible for farm mapping, digital traceability systems, and deforestation-free sourcing in line with EUDR and other relevant requirements.
- Manage the sustainability team with 3 direct reports and report into the Managing Director.
- Support the trading team with sustainability documentation, client reporting and impact storytelling.
- Support integration of regeneration projects (e.g. reforestation, livelihoods, social support) with relevant activities.
- Contribute to building trusted relationships with farmers and suppliers, by encouraging holistic and sustainable transformation.
Candidate profile
- Minimum 5 years of experience in sustainability, certification, or supply chain management within the agricultural or commodity export sector.
- Strong understanding of sustainability reporting frameworks, KPIs, traceability systems, international certification schemes, and EUDR compliance.
- Proven experience leading teams and managing multi-site operations.
- Degree (Master’s preferred) in Sustainability, Environmental Management, Agribusiness, Development, or a related field.
- Willing to relocate to Kampala, Uganda.
- You align with the values and worldview of Esco Uganda.
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