About Global Standards
Global Standards gGmbH is the non-profit operating unit that develops and manages leading voluntary sustainability standards for the textile sector. We aim to create a world where all textile production leads with the principles of health, ecology, fairness and care for people’s lives and the environment.
Our work began with the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), developed through an international collaboration of industry and civil society organisations seeking a harmonised, credible framework for organic textiles. Today, GOTS sets the benchmark for an international common understanding of environmental and social accountability in the textile sector.
Building on this foundation, Global Standards develops, implements, verifies and promotes robust standards across textile value chains. Grounded in scientific evidence and supported by independent certification, our work helps businesses, retailers and consumers trust the claims behind the products they choose.
Job Summary
- Lead and manage all standard-setting activities for Global Standard.
- Oversee the design, revision and maintenance of standards covering ecological, human rights, social and responsible business conduct criteria.
- Ensure alignment with international best practice, regulatory frameworks and credible standard-setting expectations.
- Bring senior expertise in certification, auditing, standard development, stakeholder consultation and sustainability leadership.
- Provide strong textile-sector expertise and deep knowledge of Voluntary Sustainability Standards.
- Lead a team of experts and specialists across environmental, social and technical disciplines.
Candidate Profile
We are seeking an exceptional sustainability leader with the vision, innovation mindset and credibility to drive transformative change across the textile and apparel sector. You will be purpose-driven, believing in the power of Voluntary Sustainability Standards to advance environmental stewardship, human rights and social responsibility globally.
You will bring extensive senior leadership experience in standards development, certification, auditing and sustainability systems management. You will possess deep expertise in sustainable textile production, environmental impact management and social compliance, alongside a strong understanding of Voluntary Sustainability Standards, international sustainability regulations and certification frameworks.
A forward-thinking and innovative leader, you will demonstrate the ability to anticipate emerging societal, environmental, technological and market trends, translating insights into progressive standards, programmes and solutions. Experience leading global multi-stakeholder consultation processes and managing diverse international teams is essential.
You will combine strong strategic leadership with excellent technical writing, policy development and stakeholder engagement skills. You will possess high emotional intelligence, diplomacy and the ability to build consensus across diverse stakeholder groups, while fostering innovation and continuous improvement. A deep personal commitment to ecological sustainability, human rights and social justice is critical.
Success in this role requires the ability to thrive in a dynamic, global and cross-cultural environment, working effectively with remote teams and navigating complexity and change. The role also requires a willingness to travel internationally.
Desirable Qualifications and Experience
- Advanced degree in Textile Sciences, Environmental Science, Ecology, Human Rights, Sustainable Development or a related discipline.
- Professional auditing qualifications (e.g., SA8000, ISO 14001 Lead Auditor) or equivalent.
- Specialist training or certifications in sustainability, human rights, responsible sourcing or innovation management.
- Experience with supply chain traceability systems, digital assurance tools, life cycle assessment methodologies and sustainability performance frameworks.
- A proven track record of developing and implementing innovative sustainability programmes, standards or industry initiatives.
This opportunity is suited to a visionary, courageous and innovative leader who can set ambitious sustainability benchmarks, inspire collaboration across stakeholders, and enable organisations to move beyond compliance towards lasting environmental and social impact.
Job Features
| Job Category | Environment, Gareth |
| Location | Remote (within Germany), with travel required |
| Salary | €6,956.78 per month |
| Contract Type | Fixed-term contract for two years, with the option of a permanent contract |
| Closing Date | 30th August |
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Job Features
| Job Category | Environment, Gareth |
| Location | Remote (within Germany), with travel required |
| Salary | €6,956.78 per month |
| Contract Type | Fixed-term contract for two years, with the option of a permanent contract |
| Closing Date | 30th August |
