Environmental and Social Development Specialist

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 a commitment of $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in fiscal year 2025, the IFC aims to create markets and opportunities that contribute to a world free of poverty. The organization operates with a mission to end poverty and increase shared prosperity, leveraging its capital, expertise, and influence to address the most urgent global challenges.

Job Overview:
The Environmental and Social Development Specialist position at IFC is designed for a dynamic and motivated individual who possesses strong communication, interpersonal, and analytical skills. This role involves providing support for infrastructure, manufacturing, services, and agribusiness transactions in South Asia, particularly for Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects. The specialist will be responsible for offering Environmental and Social (E&S) guidance to clients and investment teams, ensuring compliance with IFC Performance Standards and Sustainability Policy. The position requires a proactive approach to managing E&S risks and enhancing the impact of IFC-supported business activities, while also reporting to the ESG Regional Manager for the South Asia region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Environmental and Social Development Specialist include leading or contributing to the review of E&S issues and risks in new investments and select advisory and PPP engagements. The specialist will prepare public disclosure documents and internal documentation, identify and develop E&S risk mitigation measures, and provide guidance to investment teams on E&S risk management throughout the investment cycle. Additionally, the specialist will monitor portfolio clients, engage with them to ensure compliance with E&S requirements, and contribute to portfolio analysis to identify systemic issues. The role also involves supporting industry teams in response to Compliance Advisor Ombudsman (CAO) and Independent Evaluation Group (IEG) requests, participating in cross-regional teams for policy interpretation, and preparing management briefs on relevant E&S matters.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position must possess an advanced degree (Masters) in science, engineering, sociology, or other relevant disciplines. A minimum of ten years of professional experience in E&S management, monitoring, or due diligence is required, with a preference for experience in the private sector within South and Southeast Asian countries. Familiarity with IFC/World Bank E&S Policies and Standards is essential, along with exemplary project management skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks under tight deadlines. Strong analytical skills, high personal integrity, and emotional intelligence are also critical for success in this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Environmental and Social Development Specialist position includes an advanced degree (Masters) in relevant fields such as science, engineering, or sociology. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of environmental and social issues in the context of development projects.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of professional experience in environmental and social management, monitoring, or due diligence. Candidates should have a strong preference for experience in the private sector, particularly in South and Southeast Asian countries, and should be familiar with working in emerging markets, ideally in fragile and conflict environments.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is essential for this role, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Additionally, having skills in other South Asian languages is considered an advantage, as it can enhance communication with local stakeholders and clients.

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. 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 being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly regardless of gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.