Director, IPAM

Job Posting Organization:
The Independent Project Accountability Mechanism (IPAM) was established in July 2020 as part of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). Its mission is to ensure accountability in project financing by mediating disputes between stakeholders and ensuring compliance with environmental and social policies. The organization operates under principles of independence, impartiality, transparency, predictability, equitability, and accessibility. IPAM is managed by the Chief Accountability Officer and reports directly to the Board of Directors via the Audit Committee. The office aims to promote institutional learning and integrate management action plan commitments across EBRD projects, sharing lessons learned and offering guidance based on insights from casework. The organization employs a model that requires staff to possess the necessary skills and competencies to undertake casework at high standards, supported by external experts when needed.

Job Overview:
The Director of IPAM plays a crucial role in ensuring the effective implementation of the Project Accountability Policy and Guidance. This position involves close collaboration with the Chief Accountability Officer on various operational and strategic tasks aimed at enhancing institutional accountability among stakeholders and improving project performance. The Director is responsible for aligning strategy with programmatic planning and delivery oversight across IPAM’s functions, which include external engagement, dispute resolution, and institutional learning. A significant aspect of the role is to guide the creation and dissemination of knowledge derived from cases to influence changes in Bank practices, thereby promoting greater accountability and sustainability. The Director will also engage with high-level stakeholders, including the Board of Directors and senior Bank Management, and is expected to represent the department with professionalism both internally and externally. This position requires hands-on management of a team responsible for various functions, including Intake, Problem Solving, Institutional Learning, and Outreach.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director is responsible for overseeing the Registration, Assessment, and Problem Solving Function, providing strategic guidance to the Associate Director, and ensuring alignment of case management practices with IPAM’s values and policies. The role includes developing innovative conflict resolution approaches, monitoring complex dispute cases, and ensuring quality control of public documentation. The Director will also develop and implement multi-year strategies across Outreach, Learning, and Data Management functions, serving as the principal advisor to the Chief Accountability Officer on stakeholder relations and learning priorities. Additionally, the Director will oversee the translation of case findings into knowledge products, represent IPAM in peer networks, and ensure synergies between IPAM learning products and the EBRD’s project cycle. The Director is accountable for staff management, including recruitment, talent management, and performance coaching, while also ensuring adherence to the Bank’s Behavioural Competencies and Corporate Behaviours. The role requires active engagement in continuous improvement and learning, as well as deputizing for the Managing Director when necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a degree in a related field such as economics, social or environmental sciences, sustainability, or international development, or have equivalent experience. A deep understanding of multilateral development banks, accountability frameworks, and grievance redress mechanisms is essential. Knowledge of dispute resolution methodologies, stakeholder negotiation, and culturally sensitive approaches is required, along with familiarity with environmental and social impact assessments and international standards. Candidates should have a strong grounding in institutional governance, transparency, and ethical standards, as well as the ability to develop and implement multi-year strategies and align cross-functional teams. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are necessary for high-stakes documentation and public engagement, and candidates should be skilled in building trust with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in fields such as economics, social or environmental sciences, sustainability, or international development is required. Equivalent experience in related areas may also be considered acceptable. The educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of multilateral development banks and the accountability mechanisms that govern them.

Experience:
Candidates should have significant experience in roles related to project accountability, dispute resolution, or institutional learning within the context of multilateral development banks. Experience in managing teams and overseeing complex projects is essential, along with a proven track record of engaging with high-level stakeholders and navigating sensitive contexts. Familiarity with the operational and strategic functions of accountability mechanisms is highly desirable.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of additional languages, particularly those spoken in EBRD regions, is considered an asset. Strong communication skills in multiple languages can enhance the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and facilitate outreach efforts.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract lasting four years. The role is based in London, United Kingdom, and may require regular travel and work outside of regular business hours. The EBRD promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace, encouraging applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background. The organization offers a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits and prioritizes employee wellbeing.