Senior Social Development Specialist – LAC Region

Job Posting Organization:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group, which is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries. Established to promote sustainable development, the IFC focuses on the private sector in emerging markets. With a presence in over 100 countries and more than 120 offices worldwide, the IFC is dedicated to ending poverty and increasing shared prosperity. In fiscal year 2025, the IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging private sector solutions to create markets and opportunities. The organization aims to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet, and it operates with a mission to provide financial and technical assistance to stimulate private sector investment in developing countries.

Job Overview:
The Senior Social Development Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the IFC's business in the Central America, Caribbean, Colombia, and Mexico (CCM) region. This position requires a dynamic and motivated individual with strong communication, interpersonal, and analytical skills. The specialist will provide social guidance to clients and investment teams on social matters in accordance with IFC Performance Standards and Sustainability Policy. The primary goal is to promote compliance and enhance the impact of IFC-supported business activities. The specialist will report to the ESG Regional Manager for the CCM region and will be responsible for leading and contributing to the review of social issues and risks in new investments, portfolio, and advisory engagements, including public-private partnerships (PPP). The role also involves producing high-quality work products that frame risk mitigation strategies, particularly concerning involuntary resettlement, labor issues, stakeholder engagement, and grievance mechanisms.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Social Development Specialist include leading the review of social issues and risks in new investments and portfolio engagements, developing social risk mitigation measures, and providing guidance to investment teams on social risk management throughout the investment cycle. The specialist will produce high-quality documentation for public disclosures and formulate environmental and social (E&S) legal conditions for IFC projects. They will coordinate with thematic specialists and external stakeholders, monitor portfolio clients for compliance with E&S requirements, and contribute to regional supervision program reviews. The specialist will also assist in handling project-related complaints, support industry teams in response to requests from the Compliance Advisor Ombudsman, and participate in cross-regional teams for policy interpretation on E&S topics. Additionally, they will mentor junior staff and provide capacity building to clients on conducting E&S Impact Assessments and developing Stakeholder Engagement Plans.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline such as Sociology, Anthropology, Economics, Political Science, or other related social sciences. A minimum of twelve years of professional experience in E&S management, monitoring, or due diligence is required, with a preference for private sector experience in the LAC region. Candidates should have experience working with the IFC Sustainability Framework and supporting documents, as well as direct engagement with community members, civil society organizations (CSOs), and NGOs. Experience in gender-based violence (GBV) and social inclusion is desirable. Strong organizational skills, project management capabilities, and the ability to travel regularly to client countries are essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as Sociology, Anthropology, Economics, Political Science, or other related social sciences. This advanced degree is crucial for understanding the complexities of social development and the various factors that influence social risk management in investment projects.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of twelve years of professional experience in environmental and social management, monitoring, or due diligence. Candidates should have a strong background in private sector experience within the LAC region, particularly focusing on social issues such as grievance management, community engagement, resettlement, labor standards, and engagement with Indigenous Peoples. Experience with the IFC Sustainability Framework and direct community engagement is highly valued.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Spanish is mandatory for this position, as effective communication with a wide range of internal and external parties is essential. The ability to communicate persuasively and present complex E&S risks and management solutions in an understandable manner is crucial. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is an international recruitment opportunity with a term duration of three years. The role is full-time and may require regular travel to various IFC client countries. 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 opportunity for all candidates regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.