Social Development Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group, established to focus on the private sector in emerging markets. The IFC is the largest global development institution dedicated to creating markets and opportunities in developing countries. With a presence in over 100 countries, the IFC leverages its capital, expertise, and influence to mobilize private sector solutions and investments. In fiscal year 2025, the IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, aiming to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. The organization operates under the mission of ending poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development, with a workforce that spans across 189 member countries and more than 120 offices worldwide. The IFC's Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) teams support investment and advisory departments to manage ESG risks and promote compliance with Environmental and Social Performance Standards.

Job Overview:
The Social Development Specialist position at IFC is designed for a dynamic and motivated individual with strong communication, interpersonal, and analytical skills. The specialist will play a crucial role in supporting IFC's business operations in the North, West, and Horn of Africa regions. This role involves providing guidance to clients and IFC's investment and advisory teams on social risk management matters, ensuring compliance with IFC Performance Standards and the Sustainability Policy. The specialist will be responsible for enhancing the impact and additionality of IFC-supported business activities, reporting to the ESG Regional Manager. The position requires a proactive approach to monitor portfolio clients, assist in social performance, and engage with stakeholders to address social risks effectively. The specialist will also contribute to knowledge management by gathering operational experiences and participating in corporate initiatives related to social risk management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Social Development Specialist include leading and assessing social issues and risks in new and existing investments, providing technical advice on social aspects in accordance with IFC Performance Standards, and monitoring portfolio clients that require significant support in social performance. The specialist will coordinate with stakeholder grievance response teams, assist in portfolio reviews, and build client capacity on social risks and impacts. Additionally, the specialist will identify key social risk management aspects at the client and market level, participate in strategic decision-making regarding IFC's role in advisory support, and manage relations with internal and external stakeholders. The role also involves contributing to the preparation of management briefs on regional social management issues and participating in the Social Practice Group.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Social Development Specialist position must possess a graduate or advanced degree in social sciences, anthropology, sociology, or a related discipline. A minimum of 8 years of professional experience in social due diligence, social risk management, and mitigation in an international context is required, with a preference for experience in the private sector across various industry sectors. A proven track record in implementing risk management measures in accordance with IFC Performance Standards and a good understanding of the dynamics of the Africa region are essential. Candidates should also demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills in English and Arabic, with additional language skills in French being advantageous. The ideal candidate will be pragmatic, solution-oriented, and possess a high degree of responsiveness and proactivity.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Social Development Specialist position includes a graduate or advanced degree in social sciences, anthropology, sociology, or a related field. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of social risk management and the socio-economic dynamics in emerging markets, particularly in the African context.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of professional experience in social due diligence, social risk management, and mitigation, particularly in the international context. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in the private sector and across various industry sectors such as agribusiness, infrastructure, manufacturing, and services. Experience working in fragile and conflict environments is considered an added advantage, as is a willingness to travel regularly within the Africa region.

Languages:
The mandatory languages for this position are Arabic and English, as effective communication in these languages is essential for the role. Additionally, proficiency in French is considered a preferred language, as it may enhance the specialist's ability to engage with stakeholders in the region and address social risk management issues more effectively.

Additional Notes:
The Social Development Specialist position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years. The role is full-time and involves significant interaction with various stakeholders, including civil society organizations and non-governmental organizations. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.