Junior Project Manager Sustainability (9 months contract)

As a maternity cover role, this project manager position will be responsible for supporting the global sustainability programs at The North Face and Timberland within the EMEA region, with a specific focus on materials, circularity, regenerative practices, and packaging.

Supporting the sustainability management across both brands, this role will help to drive key streams of work, with responsibility for project managing specific programs. The role will require excellent project management skills and a high level of collaboration with teams across the brands on regional and global level, including Materials, Product, Merchandising, and Marketing.

This role will also work closely with the VF Sustainability team to develop best practice guidance and blueprints that can be disseminated across the other brands in VF.

How You Will Make a Difference

• Work in partnership with the Product and Sourcing teams to advance sustainable materials and circular product programs

• Maintain and report on latest sustainability trends including reporting, product design and development, eco-preferred materials, manufacturing techniques, industry compliance and regulations, NGO activity

• Working on the development of Timberland’s roadmap to net positive in collaboration with Timberland Global 2030 cross functional team

• Support on the development and roll out of the brands’ take back and recommerce programs, with a focus on both the development of TNF Renewed, and expansion of the Timberloop Take back program in designated markets

• In partnership with Global brand sustainability teams, support on the implementation and measurement of regenerative agriculture projects across both The North Face and Timberland

• In partnership with Timberland and The North Face Product teams  work on monitoring and reporting on sustainable materials integration on a seasonal basis

• Support Timberland and The North Face marketing team on the implementation of sustainability related activations

• Work on the development and implementation of sustainable packaging initiatives across both brands

• Support The North Face and Timberland’s in scouting regenerative sourcing opportunities in Europe

• Supporting on The North Face and Timberland’s other sustainability and responsibility programmes as require.

Skills for Success

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, Materials, Design, or related field

• Equivalent years of experience in a substantially similar industry may be considered in lieu of a degree to be determined by the nature of the specific job and the hiring manager’s criteria

• 3-5 years of professional experience in sustainability, materials, product development, design, or related role

• Previous experience in project management and strong facilitation and influencing skills 

• Apparel industry experience and understanding of materials and product development is preferred

• Knowledge of preferred textile materials, such as organic cotton and recycled polyester

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with multiple teams and stakeholders, both internally and externally

• Entrepreneurial spirit with the ability to adapt to rapidly changing priorities

• Strong project management skills and experience

• Operates with a high degree of independence and accountability

• High proficiency in Microsoft Excel and proficiency in Microsoft Word and PowerPoint

• Strong written and oral communication skills

• Knowledge of life cycle assessment processes and an understanding of how to evaluate a product’s environmental footprint

• Ability to take data, analyze it, and communicate it effectively to drive decision making

• Attention to detail and data accuracy are a must for this position

• Knowledge of navigating PLM

• English language is essential both written and verbal

VF is a global apparel company connecting people to the lifestyles they cherish through our family of iconic brands. At the heart of our journey lies our purpose: We power movements of sustainable and active lifestyles for the betterment of people and our planet. This is our purpose. It’s the reason we come to work every day. Our purpose unites us and leads us to pursue our goals, together. This is our calling. Learn more at vfc.com

What’s in it For You

We’re in the business of unleashing human potential, driven by the ideas, energy and commitment of our people. That’s why we offer comprehensive benefits that encourage mental, physical and financial well-being for all VF associates. When it comes to benefits, we’re the total package.

• A supportive feedback-based culture where respect and integrity guide us in what we do

• An inclusive international environment where people of diverse backgrounds, lifestyles and nationalities love working together

• Be part of an iconic lifestyle brand in a multi brand, multi countries organization

• On site gym offering health and well-being initiatives

• A discount card with 50% on all VF brands

• Break out areas offering complimentary hot drinks

Free to Be, Inclusion & Diversity 

As a purpose-led, performance driven company, we strive to foster a culture of belonging based on respect, connection, openness and authenticity. We are committed to building and maintaining a workplace that celebrates the diversity of our associates, allowing them to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

As an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, VF is committed to support disadvantaged groups whilst providing equal opportunities for both VF associates and applicants alike.

If you like what you have read and want to join our team then we would like to hear from you!