WBG Manager – E&S Risk Management

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a global partnership consisting of five institutions: the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), the International Development Association (IDA), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), and the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID). Established with the mission to eradicate extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity on a livable planet, WBG is one of the largest sources of financing and knowledge for developing countries. With 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, WBG collaborates with public and private stakeholders to tackle critical development challenges, leveraging data, research, and technology to achieve tangible and transformative results. For more information, visit www.worldbankgroup.org.

Job Overview:
The WBG Chief Risk Officer (CRO) Vice Presidency is responsible for overseeing institutional risk across the Group, ensuring adherence to risk policies, and reporting to the Board and executive management. The mission of this unit is to support WBG in achieving its goals sustainably. The Vice Presidency assists in identifying and managing cross-cutting risks, enhancing decision-making regarding risk responses, and improving capital deployment. The newly established Environmental and Social (E&S) Risk Department within the CRO function aims to provide independent oversight of E&S risks, ensuring that operational teams at WBG adhere to E&S policies while effectively managing risks associated with projects. The department is currently seeking two Managers to lead its E&S Risk Management units, focusing on strategic leadership and operational oversight to manage environmental and social risks effectively in WBG operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Under the guidance of the WBG Global Director for Environment and Social Risk, the Manager will execute risk management functions to fulfill the department's mandate. Responsibilities include leading the E&S Risk Management team, overseeing specialists, managing team performance, budget allocation, staffing decisions, and work planning. The Manager will ensure oversight of E&S risks across the WBG project portfolio, collaborating with regional teams to address complex situations, proactively monitoring risks, and implementing corrective actions. Additionally, the Manager will lead stakeholder engagement, oversee management of direct complaints, and advise on compliance cases. Strategic leadership will involve aligning E&S risk management with WBG policies, assigning risk ratings, and coordinating with global policy units. The Manager will also support high-risk projects, manage portfolio risks, and represent WBG in environmental and social risk management discussions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in environmental science or a related field, along with at least 15 years of international experience in public and private sectors, particularly in multilateral development finance with a focus on environmental and social management. Experience in managing environmental or social risks for complex, multi-stakeholder projects is essential, as is familiarity with WBG’s E&S policies and standards. Leadership experience in diverse organizational settings is required, along with the ability to provide intellectual leadership, mentor colleagues, and promote innovative practices. Knowledge of WBG markets, particularly in fragile and conflict-affected states (FCS) and International Development Association (IDA) countries, is also necessary.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in environmental science or a related field is mandatory for this position, ensuring that candidates have the necessary academic foundation to understand and manage environmental and social risks effectively.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 15 years of relevant international experience, particularly in the public sector, private sector, and multilateral development finance, with a strong emphasis on environmental and social management. This experience should include significant involvement in complex projects that require managing E&S issues across various sectors and regions.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is required for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. While additional languages are not specified as mandatory, having proficiency in other languages could be advantageous and enhance communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of an international recruitment effort and is expected to last for a term duration of 4 years. The role is full-time and may require travel as needed. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, paid leave, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of gender, identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.