21 November 2024
Profile Independent Chair Floriculture Sustainability Initiative (FSI)
FSI is a not-for-profit organization based in Belgium with 90+ members from the different parts of the floricultural supply chain (production, trade, and retail), civil society, and other stakeholders.
FSI was established in 2013 with support from IDH, the Dutch based Sustainable Trade Initiative, to work together as a sector in a pre-competitive setting to drive forward sustainability. The members of Production, Trade, Retail and Civil Society hold voting rights in the General Assembly, while the other stakeholders are Associate Members.
The Board consists of elected representatives from Production (2), Trade (2), Retail (2), and Civil Society (1). IDH is an advisor to the Board. The members of each category can nominate their candidate(s) for the Board, and the whole membership votes. The Board can appoint one of the board members as Chair, but also opt for an independent chair and has done so since the start of FSI in 2013. IDH has supported this position up to 2024. The FSI Board has decided to continue the position of Independent Chair for the new 5-year period, 2025-2030.
As the current Chair has announced that 2024 is his last, the Board is looking for a new Independent Chair starting from the General Assembly in February 2025. For more information about FSI please go to the website: https://FSI2025.com.
Vision and Mission:
FSI aims to achieve a sustainable floriculture sector by promoting responsible production and trade practices. Its mission is to create a collaborative platform where all stakeholders can work towards shared sustainability goals in a pre-competitive environment.
Key Achievements:
- Implementation of sector-wide sustainability certification benchmarks.
- Increased transparency and traceability in the supply chain.
- Successful partnerships with international bodies to promote sustainable practices.
Challenges:
- Ensuring widespread adoption of sustainable practices across the sector.
Role of the Independent Chair:
The role of the Independent Chair is to lead FSI in its journey towards reaching the 2030 targets. The Chair is the first point of contact for the Executive Officer. The Independent Chair must balance the interests of all members and stakeholders in reaching the 2030 targets. As FSI has grown since 2013 into the global sector platform for sustainability, the chair role will increasingly require, in good coordination with the Executive Officer, representation of FSI in global platforms and events. Convening with national and international (public) bodies, donors, etc.
Specific Responsibilities:
- Strategic planning and implementation to achieve FSI’s 2030 goals
- Engaging and mobilizing stakeholders across the floricultural supply chain
- Leading fundraising and advocacy efforts to secure necessary resources
- Facilitating effective communication and collaboration among members
- Visible ambassador representing FSI and its members
Reporting and Accountability:
The Independent Chair is evaluated by the FSI Board and is accountable to the General Assembly. Yearly performance reviews will be conducted by the Board to ensure alignment with FSI’s strategic objectives
Performance Metrics:
Success will be measured based on progress towards FSI’s 2030 sustainability targets, stakeholder engagement levels, and the effectiveness of fundraising and advocacy efforts.
Profile of the Independent Chair:
- Has executive experience in international agri and food value chains, both in the South and the North.
- Preferred industries: Experience in floriculture, agriculture, or related sectors with a strong network.
- Technical skills: Knowledge of sustainability frameworks and standards relevant tofloriculture.
- Is a binding person who can create a safe place to discuss complex issues in a pre-competitivesetting.
- Has a helicopter view and can think long-term, whilst finding common ground but also being decisiveif required.
- Soft skills: Leadership, negotiation, conflict resolution.
- Is action-driven and has the ability to influence and mobilize diverse stakeholders, includinggovernmental bodies, NGOs, and private sector partners.
- Has experience in sustainability challenges and mitigating risks.
- Speaks fluent English. Spanish and/or Dutch is a plus.
Application Process:Interested candidates should submit their CV and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and vision for FSI to office@fsi2025.com The deadline for applications is 13 December 2024.
Selection Process:
The selection process will include interviews with FSI Board members. Final decision-making criteria will include alignment with FSI’s values and strategic goals.