Principal Social and Environmental Expert

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

• Its mission is to foster the transition to open market-oriented economies and promote private and entrepreneurial initiatives in countries across Europe, Central Asia, and beyond. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries, employing a diverse workforce of approximately 2,000 professionals. The organization is dedicated to sustainable development and environmental responsibility, ensuring that its projects align with international standards and best practices.

Job Overview:
The EBRD is seeking two Principal Social and Environmental Experts to join its Environment and Sustainability Department. These positions will focus on the Corporate sector team and the Energy sector team, respectively. The Corporate sector team is responsible for project due diligence related to compliance with EU environmental legislation and international practices, covering various sectors such as manufacturing, agribusiness, and telecommunications. The Energy sector team focuses on energy projects, supporting sustainability and the implementation of EU best practices in areas like wind, solar, and nuclear energy. The Principal will work closely with Associate Directors and Heads of Sector to ensure the Bank's commitments under its Environmental and Social Policy are met, contributing specialist input to the appraisal and monitoring of projects, particularly those that are complex and high-risk. This role requires collaboration with a multicultural team and interaction with various stakeholders to drive sound environmental and sustainable development practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal will be responsible for providing specialist input to projects, Technical Cooperation tasks, and initiatives, particularly those that are complex and high-risk. They will manage delivery of specific sub-projects or tasks, contributing to assessments of compliance with the Environmental and Social Policy (ESP), evaluating environmental and social risks, and ensuring alignment with climate and nature risks. The Principal will coordinate project teams, conduct analytical reviews, develop methodologies, and manage data. They will also represent the ESD at various meetings and events, support capacity-building initiatives, mentor staff, and contribute to the continuous improvement of internal processes. Additionally, the Principal will prepare internal and external reports and ensure adherence to the Bank's behavioral competencies and corporate behaviors.

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 proven track record in appraising complex environmental and social risks across various projects and sectors is essential. Knowledge of international environmental, social, and climate standards, as well as familiarity with financing instruments and policies, is required. Candidates should demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, effective time management, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team. Excellent written and spoken English is mandatory, and familiarity with a language of the EBRD's countries of operation is advantageous.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in environmental and/or social sciences, economics, engineering, or a related field is required. Candidates with comparable professional experience may also be considered. The educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding complex environmental and social issues and their implications for project appraisal and management.

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial experience in project management, particularly in leading or contributing to multi-disciplinary teams. Experience in negotiating, persuasion, and influence skills in both internal and external engagements is crucial. A track record of mentoring and coaching less experienced staff is also important, as is the ability to anticipate problems and proactively address them to avoid escalation.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent written and spoken communication skills. Familiarity with a language spoken in the EBRD's countries of operation would be advantageous, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The positions are full-time and based in London, United Kingdom. The contract is regular, with a posting end date of 04/05/202

• The EBRD promotes a flexible working environment, expecting employees to attend the office 50% of their working time. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background, gender, sexual orientation, or disabilities. Due to the high volume of applications, detailed feedback will not be provided to candidates who are not shortlisted.