Social Development Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a global partnership of five institutions dedicated to ending extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity. Established in 1944, the organization has grown to include 189 member countries and operates in over 120 offices worldwide. The World Bank Group is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, focusing on various sectors including social development, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. The Eastern and Southern Africa Region, where this position is located, is home to approximately 700 million people and encompasses 26 countries. The World Bank aims to address significant challenges in this region, including education, health, and economic disparities, while promoting regional integration and trade.

Job Overview:
The Social Development Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the World Bank’s engagement in Rwanda, Kenya, Somalia, Uganda, and other countries in the Eastern and Southern Africa region. This position is integral to a multidisciplinary team that focuses on social risk management and promoting social inclusion within Bank-financed projects. The Specialist will ensure that projects are designed and implemented in a manner that aligns with the World Bank’s Environmental and Social Framework (ESF), thereby enhancing the social development outcomes of operations in East Africa. The role involves advising on best practices, conducting social due diligence, and engaging with various stakeholders to foster inclusive and sustainable development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Social Development Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including advising task teams and clients on the Bank’s ESF and Operational Policies, particularly in areas such as social risk management and social benefits optimization throughout the project cycle. Key duties include providing technical support for implementing the ESF, focusing on land acquisition, livelihood restoration, stakeholder engagement, grievance redress mechanisms, and cultural heritage considerations. The Specialist will conduct social due diligence, prepare Environmental and Social Risks Review Summaries (ESRS), and contribute to Project Appraisal Documents. Additionally, the role involves reviewing social assessment products, participating in project preparation and supervision, and advising on integrating gender and social considerations into project design. The Specialist will also maintain active engagement with stakeholders and ensure timely reporting on ESF compliance.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Social Sciences or related fields, with a minimum of 5 years of direct professional experience managing social and environmental risks in infrastructure projects within Eastern and Southern Africa. Demonstrated competence in operationalizing global sustainability frameworks, such as the World Bank ESF and IFC Performance Standards, is essential. Experience with social impact assessments, land acquisition, stakeholder engagement, and grievance mechanisms is required. Familiarity with Fragile, Conflict, and Violence (FCV) settings is advantageous. Strong communication skills and the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders are critical for success in this role.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master’s degree in Social Sciences, which may include Development Studies, Social Anthropology, Sociology, International Development, Business Sustainability Management, Environmental Sciences, or related fields. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of social development and risk management in the context of the World Bank’s operations.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in managing social and environmental risks, particularly in infrastructure projects such as energy, water, transport, urban development, and agriculture. This experience should ideally be within the Eastern and Southern Africa region or Sub-Saharan Africa, demonstrating a strong understanding of the local context and challenges.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills required. Knowledge of local languages in Rwanda is also necessary, as it facilitates engagement with local stakeholders and enhances the effectiveness of social development initiatives.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment role with a term duration of 3 years. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, 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, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The role may require frequent travel within the region, and candidates should be prepared for this aspect of the job.