Senior Environmental Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global institution established to provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries. Its mission is to reduce poverty and support development by providing loans, grants, and expertise to help countries implement projects that improve their economic prospects and quality of life. Founded in 1944, the World Bank Group comprises five institutions, including the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the International Development Association (IDA). With 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, the organization employs thousands of professionals dedicated to addressing global challenges. The World Bank Group is recognized for its commitment to sustainable development, and it plays a crucial role in funding initiatives that promote economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability.

Job Overview:
The Senior Environmental Specialist position at the World Bank is a pivotal role within the Global Environment Facility (GEF), focusing on systems transformation through integrated approaches to environmental challenges. The successful candidate will lead efforts to embed circular economy principles into various systems and sectoral supply chains, ensuring that GEF programming effectively addresses the drivers of global environmental degradation. This role requires a deep understanding of circular economy concepts and the ability to influence policy and practice at both national and international levels. The Specialist will work closely with GEF Agencies, country counterparts, and other stakeholders to develop impactful knowledge products, establish indicators for monitoring progress, and promote effective communication about GEF investments in circular economy practices. The position demands a proactive approach to engaging with diverse teams and stakeholders, fostering collaboration to achieve sustainable outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Environmental Specialist will have a range of responsibilities, including:

• Leading programming and portfolio management to integrate circularity into targeted systems and supply chains, providing guidance to GEF implementing and executing agencies.
• Developing indicators for circular economy and systems change aligned with GEF core targets and monitoring frameworks.
• Offering expert advice on circular economy solutions to GEF Agencies and countries for project proposal development and implementation monitoring.
• Creating knowledge products that document best practices and lessons learned in circular economy and systems change.
• Engaging with global discourse on circular economy and supporting outreach to developing countries.
• Establishing productive dialogues with GEF Agencies, countries, and key stakeholders to leverage opportunities for integrated programs.
• Promoting informed communication about GEF investments in circular economy practices.
• Representing GEF at senior levels in international forums and providing quality inputs for strategic documents and briefings.
• Participating in knowledge management and results-based management activities as required by GEF Secretariat Management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in environmental management, natural resource management, economics, business, policy, or a closely related field. They should have at least eight years of relevant experience in both national and international contexts, particularly in Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). A strong understanding of the GEF mandate and its focal areas, as well as knowledge of global multilateral environmental agreements, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in circular economy principles and systems thinking, with practical experience in applying these concepts in various programs or policies. Familiarity with the economic, social, and policy dimensions of circular economy, along with technical knowledge of supply chains and life cycle analysis, is also required.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in a relevant field such as environmental science, natural resource management, economics, business, or policy is mandatory for this position. This educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of environmental challenges and the principles of sustainable development.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of eight years of directly relevant experience, with a strong emphasis on international work, particularly in developing countries. Experience in working with circular economy initiatives and systems change in various sectors is highly desirable. Candidates should have a proven track record of engaging with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and private sector entities, to implement effective environmental solutions.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this role, as it is the primary language of communication within the World Bank Group. Knowledge of Spanish or French is highly desirable and would be considered an advantage, as it would facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders and enhance the Specialist's ability to engage in international forums.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international recruitment opportunity with a term duration of two years. The role is full-time and based in Washington, DC. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The World Bank Group values a culture of urgency, thoughtful risk-taking, and accountability, encouraging employees to empower themselves and others to achieve impactful results.