ADM

Human Rights Specialist - Chicago, IL

ADM$80K — $100K *
Education, Government & Non-Profit
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

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.

Responsibilities

  • Own and maintain ADM's Human Rights Policy, ensuring it aligns with international standards and legislation.
  • Develop and implement action plans to meet human rights commitments.
  • Monitor progress and prepare reports for leadership and sustainability disclosures.
  • Partner with Procurement to enhance the Responsible Sourcing Program.
  • Conduct supplier human rights risk assessments and recommend mitigation measures.
  • Coordinate and manage responsible sourcing audits, including SMETA and other compliance assessments.
  • Develop and deliver internal training on human rights and supplier expectations.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work on a global scale in a socially impactful role.
  • A collaborative environment with various departments and external stakeholders.
  • Professional development through training and exposure to best practices in human rights.
  • Potential for continuous improvement initiatives based on audit findings and performance metrics.
  • Inclusive recruitment approach that encourages diverse applicants.
Full Job Description
Job Description

Human Rights Specialist - Chicago, IL

Position Summary
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.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge of responsible agricultural or commodity supply chains.
  • Familiarity with regulations such as the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), EU Forced Labour Regulation, and similar human rights due diligence requirements.

Excited about this role but don't think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.

ADM requires the successful completion of a background check.

REF:112354BR

Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.

If hired, employees will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

The pay range for this position is expected to be between:

About ADM

Archer Daniels Midland Company offers food ingredients, animal feeds and feed ingredients, biofuels, and other products. ADM transforms natural products into a complete portfolio of ingredients and flavors for foods and beverages, supplements, nutrition for pets and livestock, and more. It was formed in 1902 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.

ADM Careers

There has never been a more exciting time to explore the job opportunities at ADM, a global leader in nutrition and agricultural processing. As a company committed to growth, innovation, and sustainability, ADM offers a unique platform for professionals to advance their careers in a dynamic and supportive environment. Work You’ll Do Join ADM’s industry-leading team to help address some of the most pressing challenges of our time, from food production to sustainable energy. At ADM, you can transform industries and foster a healthier future, leveraging our global scale and deep industry expertise. Lead with Innovation and Leadership At ADM, you are positioned to lead at the nexus of agricultural expertise and cutting-edge innovation. Our leadership in the market is driven by our commitment to innovation and diversity, ensuring that we meet global demands sustainably and efficiently. Engage with a Global Team Collaborate with over 33,000 dedicated professionals around the world who are united in their passion for delivering results and making a meaningful impact. ADM’s culture fosters a collaborative and inclusive workplace where diverse ideas lead to extraordinary outcomes. Introducing the ADM Professional Growth Pathways We are dedicated to nurturing the professional growth of our employees through unmatched training, leadership development programs, and diversity training. ADM’s commitment to professional development ensures that your career is future-proof, allowing you to evolve with the industry and our company. Do Meaningful Work Engage in work that matters with a team that values innovation and practical solutions. At ADM, your efforts contribute directly to creating a more secure and sustainable world, from improving global food supply chains to pioneering new bio-solutions. Be Part of a Great Team Experience the power of teamwork at ADM, where our collaborative environment is enhanced by diverse perspectives and a shared commitment to excellence. Our team’s unparalleled capabilities in agribusiness drive our ability to meet the needs of a growing world. Explore Career Opportunities From internships to full-time positions, ADM offers a variety of entry points for individuals at all stages of their careers. Whether you’re refining your skills or ready to lead, find the position that matches your career ambitions at ADM. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interests. We look for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players who are ready to make a difference. SEARCH ADM JOBS Keep Up to Date Stay informed with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, the latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding career opportunities that await you at ADM.
Learn more about ADM
Size
41,000 employees
Market Cap
$52 billion
Industry
Net Income
$1.7 billion
Founded
1902
5 Year Trend
+6.5%
Revenue
$64.3 billion
NASDAQ

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