(Senior) Environmental Compliance Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), which is a member of the World Bank Group (WBG). The WBG is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, dedicated to ending poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. Established with 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, the WBG collaborates with public and private sector partners to invest in groundbreaking projects, utilizing data, research, and technology to address urgent global challenges. The IFC specifically focuses on the private sector in emerging markets, working in more than 100 countries to create markets and opportunities. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging private sector solutions to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. The Compliance Advisor Ombudsman (CAO) assists IFC and MIGA in addressing complaints from affected individuals, ensuring fair and constructive resolutions while enhancing environmental and social outcomes. The CAO's Compliance Team reviews IFC/MIGA compliance with environmental and social policies, assesses harm, and recommends remedial actions, generating knowledge to improve environmental and social risk management practices.

Job Overview:
The Senior Environmental Compliance Specialist will work under the direction of the Manager of the Compliance Team at IFC. This role involves leading complex analyses of compliance with IFC's environmental and social standards in relation to complaints received by the CAO. The specialist will prepare comprehensive reports summarizing findings and recommendations, while also identifying opportunities for developing lessons learned from compliance case work. The position requires a high level of technical expertise and strategic judgment, as the specialist will manage multiple compliance cases simultaneously, ensuring resource allocation and adherence to policy-mandated timeframes. The role also involves stakeholder management, requiring collaboration with IFC/MIGA staff, community groups, NGOs, and private sector sponsors, while maintaining the independence and integrity of the CAO. The specialist will represent the CAO at various meetings and contribute to knowledge dissemination related to compliance work.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Environmental Compliance Specialist include leading multiple complex analyses of compliance with IFC environmental and social standards, providing technical leadership in the design and organization of compliance appraisals, and serving as the lead author of compliance reports. The specialist will manage various compliance cases, ensuring appropriate resource allocation and adherence to timelines. Additionally, the role involves stakeholder management, requiring effective communication and collaboration with various groups. The specialist will also gather information and conduct compliance analysis, integrating diverse issues into cohesive reports. Furthermore, the specialist will supervise junior staff, define tasks, and promote teamwork and innovation within the compliance team.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Master's degree in a relevant environmental field, such as environmental sciences or environmental engineering. Candidates must have a minimum of 10-12 years of relevant experience in environmental policy and compliance analysis, particularly in relation to the application of environmental and social standards at international financial institutions. Experience working with private sector clients in emerging markets across various sectors, such as energy, agribusiness, and infrastructure, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate a proven ability to interpret and apply environmental and social policies, with a track record in developing and delivering best practices in compliance and audit strategies. Highly developed proficiency in assessing environmental impacts and risks is required, along with in-depth knowledge of emerging practices in environmental and social risk management.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in a relevant environmental field, such as environmental sciences or environmental engineering. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of environmental compliance and policy analysis within the context of international financial institutions.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10-12 years of relevant experience in environmental policy and compliance analysis. Candidates should have substantial experience working with private sector clients in emerging markets, particularly in sectors such as energy, agribusiness, extractive industries, and infrastructure. A strong background in applying environmental and social standards at corporate and operational levels of international financial institutions is essential.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position. While other languages are considered an asset, English is the primary language required for effective communication and reporting within the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time role with a contract duration of 3 years. It involves international recruitment, indicating that candidates from various countries are encouraged to apply. 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 being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, ensuring a diverse workforce and non-discrimination based on gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.