Koala is a global furniture brand bringing Australian design and innovation to the world. We create forward-thinking products that solve problems for people and homes everywhere, driven by our purpose to make the world a more comfortable place.
We’ve always believed in doing things differently, whether in the way we develop products, how we do people and culture, or the way we bring the brand to life. That mindset has fuelled our growth, helping us disrupt categories in ways that are creative, bold and often unexpected. While we’re a household name in Australia, our journey on the global stage is only just beginning.
Since launching in 2015, our furniture has reached homes across Australia, Japan, the US and the UK. As a B Corp-certified, customer-obsessed, and data-led company, we’re committed to revolutionising furniture for generations to come through design, innovation, and meaningful sustainability.
Role Description
As the Ethical Supply Chains Specialist, you will help play a key role in ensuring Koala meets its growing global sustainability and ethical supply chain obligations, while having the opportunity to participate in broader ESG (Environment, Sustainability & Governance) initiatives across the company.
Reporting to the Director, Product Sustainability & Ethical Supply Chains and working closely with the Quality and Compliance team, you assist with data capture and review, reporting and helping to ensure we remain a benchmark leader in this space.
This is a hands-on role perfect for someone who loves data, has a hawk-eye for detail, and is passionate about ethical sourcing and supply chains. You’ll be helping to navigate the complex world of ESG including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), Timber Due Diligence, Circularity, Carbon and Modern Slavery reporting across our global markets.
Key Responsibilities
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Data Collection & Reporting
Coordinate the collection of packaging and product data from suppliers and internal systems, while ensuring it is accurate and auditable.
support reporting requirements for EPR schemes across local and international markets we operate in, submitted within strict regulatory deadlines.
Liaise with external schemes, vendors and compliance organisations to stay updated on changing requirements.
Timber Due Diligence
Support our Timber Due Diligence system by collecting and verifying legality documentation from suppliers (FSC, PEFC, etc.).
Maintain the timber tracking log to ensure full traceability of all wood-based products.
Assist in conducting risk assessments for new and existing timber supply chains.
Modern Slavery & Ethical Sourcing
Assist in the preparation and filing of annual Modern Slavery Statements for all markets that we operate in.
Where required, liaise with stakeholders on bookings for audits and any testing
Assist maintaining Koala’s supplier risk database, risk assessments, vendor corrective actions and continuous improvement.
Carbon Reporting
Assist with data entry, policy development and reporting.
Liaise with key stakeholders in data accuracy, goal setting and management.
Team Support & Coordination
Provide administrative support for sustainability audits and recertification processes.
Collaborate with Supply Chain, Logistics, Product Development, and Finance teams to ensure data alignment.
Help create internal summaries and dashboards to track our compliance progress.
Monitor and report on any new or changing regulatory requirements in markets that we operate within.
Ideal Background
A data detective - You have a natural affinity for data. You’re highly proficient in Excel/Google Sheets and can organise large datasets without breaking a sweat.
Detail obsessed - You notice the small things that others miss. Accuracy is your middle name.
Strong Time management - working to mandatory reporting deadlines.
A curious learner - You have a keen interest in sustainability, ethical sourcing, and global trade regulations. You’re not afraid to dive into complex policy documents.
Great at communicating - You can clearly communicate requirements to global suppliers and internal stakeholders.
Adaptable - You’re comfortable working in a fast-paced environment where priorities can shift quickly.
Values driven - You’re excited about Koala’s mission and want to use your skills to make a positive impact.
Perks and Privileges
Koala is only great when its employees are happy; and we’re one happy bunch!
Hybrid working - We’re mixing it up with ~3 days back in the Alexandria Treehouse (office) and work from bed/home (WFB)
Take a break - Generous time off - volunteer, parental, Koala life leave and more to help keep your work-life balance, balanced.
Treehouse goods - Fully stocked kitchen with an emphasis on healthy local produce, think bougie brekky, salad bar, kombucha on tap, monthly barbies and more.
Pet-friendly - The Koala Treehouse is as pet-friendly as they get!
Surprise & delight - The two-word combo at the core of everything we do. All Koalas can expect to enjoy free Koala products with ‘mates rates’ for your friends and fam.
Support & wellbeing - Our employee experience respects and embraces all families, formed, found and evolving. You’ll have access to our Employee Assistance Program, which includes unlimited sessions for financial, work, relationship, family or wellbeing support.
Accelerate your career - via our Learning Management platform, as well as individual and team growth budgets and dedicated days.
Community & connection - We believe that simply doing ‘no harm’ isn’t good enough So, how are we doing our part? BCorp Certified, WWF Partnership, volunteer days, a member of SoftLanding, 1% and so much more.
All in all, the Koala Community is a great place to hang out and belong to!
Why Join Koala?
At Koala, we do things a little differently and we don’t shy away from the fact that we expect a lot from our employees! We have no ego; we seek feedback that grows us; and we have a strong bias for action. We want you to challenge expectations, always look to make a difference and give us something different from the norm. We want people that bring great energy, that have a long-game focus and are always trying to find new angles and approaches to the way we work. We're a team full of entrepreneurial spirit and have a relentless focus on 'what's next' but while always reviewing 'what's been done' and learning, growing and adapting. Honesty and empathy drive everything we do, as well as a total focus on exceeding our customers’ expectations. So if you feel like this could be you... well what the bloody hell are you waiting for? Drop us a line, and let's see what you've got! ;)
There’s no such thing as a ‘perfect’ candidate, Koala is a place where everyone has opportunity. So however you identify and whatever background you bring with you, please apply if this is a role that would make you excited to come into work every day. We’re an equal opportunity employer, and recognise that a diverse workforce is crucial to our success as a business.
To read more, check out our careers, LinkedIn, or the great work we do with Work180.
