Andre de Freitas Named New Executive Director of Solidaridad

Solidaridad, an international non-governmental organisation, has announced the appointment of Andre de Freitas as its new Executive Director.

De Freitas is due to officially assume the role on March 15, 2024, according to a press release cited by Cocoa Post.

The new Solidaridad boss is said to bring on board nearly two decades of invaluable experience in leading socio-environmental civil society organisations with a focus on building teams and on organisational development.

He has a background in forestry and a passion for sustainability in land-based supply chains, particularly in the agriculture and forest sectors, an attribute that Solidaridad says is precisely what the organisation needs as it embarks on its new chapter.

Born in the United States and raised in Brazil, Andre’s multicultural upbringing and extensive international experience have given him a deep understanding of global challenges and a broad perspective on effective sustainability solutions.

Solidaridad also identified de Freitas’ client-centric approach as one that aligns perfectly with the international organisation’s values.

“Solidaridad is a unique organisation, working to improve the conditions of small farmers and workers around the world while simultaneously addressing the most pressing environmental challenges of our time,” de Freitas commented.

de Freitas said, “I have long admired Solidaridad’s pragmatic approach, innovative spirit, and genuine commitment to making a difference. I am truly excited to be part of the Solidaridad team and eager to collaborate with such a talented group of individuals.”

Solidaridad expressed gratitude for the dedicated work of its previous leaders, Nico Roozen and Jeroen Douglas.

It eulogised the contributions of the two past leaders to the organisation for over 50 years and its solid foundations in the arena of sustainable supply chains worldwide.

“Thanks to their devoted efforts, Solidaridad grew from a small organisation in the 70s engaging with smallholder social justice movements in Central America to a successful global network organisation,” it said.

The Solidaridad Network currently comprises more than 1000 staff members in over 40 countries working with farmers, workers, and miners to make supply chains more sustainable and fair.

“Solidaridad looks forward to the refreshed view that Andre de Freitas brings to our work.  With de Freitas at the helm, Solidaridad will continue to have a profound impact on the lives of those we serve.”

Before joining Solidaridad, Andre de Freitas was president of the Renova Foundation from January 2020 to July 2023 and Executive Director of the Sustainable Agriculture Network (SAN) from 2013 to 2018.

He serves on the advisory boards of Social Accountability International and Assurance Services International.