Human Rights Specialist - Chicago, IL

Human Rights Specialist - Chicago, IL

The Human Rights Specialist is responsible for leading the implementation of ADM's human rights and responsible sourcing commitments across global operations and supply chains. The role owns the company’s Human Rights Policy, coordinates internal implementation, and drives continuous improvement through supplier due diligence, risk assessments, and responsible sourcing audits. Working closely with Procurement, Sustainability, Legal, Compliance, and business teams, the specialist ensures human rights risks are identified, mitigated, and managed in line with company commitments and evolving regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities
Human Rights Strategy & Governance:

• Own and maintain ADM's Human Rights Policy, ensuring it remains aligned with international standards and emerging legislation.
• Develop and implement internal action plans to deliver against the company's human rights commitments.
• Monitor progress against human rights objectives and prepare reports for internal leadership and external sustainability disclosures.

Responsible Sourcing Program:

• Partner with Procurement to deploy and continuously improve ADM's Responsible Sourcing Program.
• Conduct supplier human rights risk assessments and recommend appropriate mitigation measures.
• Assist procurement teams in managing supplier corrective action plans and improving supplier performance.

Supplier Audits & Due Diligence:

• Coordinate and manage responsible sourcing audits, including SMETA (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit) and other recognized social compliance assessments.
• Review audit findings, identify systemic risks, and oversee remediation plans through to closure.
• Track audit performance metrics and identify trends for continuous improvement.

Internal Engagement & Training

• Develop and deliver internal training on human rights, modern slavery, responsible recruitment, and supplier expectations.
• Support cross-functional teams in embedding human rights considerations into sourcing decisions.

Stakeholder Collaboration

• Build and maintain relationships with non-governmental organizations (NGOs), non-profit organizations, industry associations, and multi-stakeholder initiatives to strengthen ADM's human rights program and stay informed on emerging risks and best practices.
• Represent ADM in external forums, industry working groups, and responsible sourcing initiatives to promote collaboration and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Rights, International Development, Business, Law, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in human rights, responsible sourcing, ethical trade, ESG, sustainability, or supply chain compliance.
• Experience managing supplier social audits, particularly SMETA, with knowledge of other audit frameworks considered an asset.
• Strong understanding of international human rights standards, including the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, OECD Due Diligence Guidance and ILO Core Conventions.
• Excellent project management, stakeholder engagement, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects across global supply chains.
• Ability to travel 15-20% in North America and internationally.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of responsible agricultural or commodity supply chains.
• Familiarity with regulations such as the EU CSDDD, EU Forced Labour Regulation, and similar human rights due diligence requirements.