Managing Director, Africa

About the role

The Managing Director, Africa will lead Rainforest Alliance’s regional strategy, driving enterprise‑wide growth and delivering the 2030 impact agenda across African markets. Reporting to senior executive leadership, the role oversees a team of Country Directors and a matrix of support functions to ensure coordinated execution of programs, revenue generation and donor engagement.

Key responsibilities

• Implement the 2030 Strategy at regional and country levels, adapting objectives to local contexts.
• Lead Country Directors to identify and develop growth opportunities aligned with Rainforest Alliance’s value propositions.
• Drive impact and revenue growth through certification, regenerative agriculture, climate initiatives, and the expansion of profitable new crops.
• Manage donor‑funded programs, ensuring alignment with regional priorities and effective stakeholder communication.
• Represent the organization with senior government officials, industry associations, private‑sector partners and multilateral donors.
• Coordinate with global functions to align internal resources and maintain consistent execution across the region.
• Facilitate adoption of standards, remove local barriers and act as a bridge between global product teams and local ecosystems.

Required profile

• Proven senior leadership experience in agriculture, environment or sustainability sectors, preferably with a regional focus.
• Strong track record of delivering growth, managing P&L and leading multi‑country teams.
• Demonstrated ability to secure and manage donor funding and build strategic partnerships.
• Excellent stakeholder management skills with experience engaging governments, NGOs and private sector.
• Deep understanding of regenerative agriculture, climate solutions and sustainable supply‑chain practices.

Required skills