Environmental and Social Associate: Grievance Response

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is an international financial institution established in 199

• Its mission is to foster the transition to open market-oriented economies and promote private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia and the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean. EBRD operates in over 30 countries and employs a diverse workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. The organization is committed to sustainable development and environmental responsibility, ensuring that its projects align with environmental and social standards.

Job Overview:
The Environmental and Social Associate: Grievance Response will play a crucial role in the Environmental and Social Department (ESD) of EBRD. This position involves coordinating the implementation of the bank's response to complaints and concerns raised by external stakeholders regarding environmental, social, and human rights issues related to EBRD projects. The Associate will work closely with banking teams and other departments to ensure compliance with the Environmental and Social Policy (ESP) and to promote sustainable development practices. The role requires a proactive approach to managing stakeholder engagement and addressing grievances effectively, ensuring that the bank's operations align with its commitment to environmental and social governance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate will be responsible for managing a variety of projects and initiatives, often taking ownership of specific tasks. Key responsibilities include conducting assessments of ESP compliance, evaluating environmental and social risks and impacts, and developing methodologies for monitoring and reporting. The Associate will also engage with stakeholders at all levels, both internally and externally, to facilitate communication and collaboration on environmental and social matters. This includes preparing internal and external reports, coordinating meetings, and supporting the negotiation of environmental and social contract terms. The role may involve travel for work-related purposes and requires the ability to manage multiple tasks while maintaining attention to detail.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a degree in environmental and/or social sciences, economics, engineering, or a related field, or have comparable professional experience. A strong understanding of international environmental and social standards, such as those set by the EBRD, IFC, and other relevant organizations, is essential. Familiarity with financing instruments and approaches is advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate effective time management, organizational skills, and the ability to work independently as well as part of a team. Excellent analytical and interpersonal skills are required, along with proficiency in written and spoken English.

Educational Background:
A degree in environmental and/or social sciences, economics, engineering, or a related field is required. Candidates with comparable professional experience in relevant areas may also be considered. A strong academic background in environmental policy, social impact assessment, or related disciplines will be beneficial for this role.

Experience:
Candidates should have experience in appraising environmental and social risks and impacts across various projects and sectors. Experience working in a multicultural environment and building effective relationships with clients and colleagues is essential. Proven analytical and quantitative skills are necessary, along with the ability to manage data and conduct technical reviews and appraisals.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and familiarity with a language spoken in the EBRD countries of operation is advantageous. For positions based in resident offices, local language fluency may be required to effectively engage with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a regular contract role with a contract length that is not specified. The EBRD promotes a flexible working environment, expecting employees to work in the office 50% of their time. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background. Due to the high volume of applications, detailed feedback will not be provided to candidates who are not shortlisted.