Senior Environmental, Social and Gender Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The Green Climate Fund (GCF) is recognized as the world’s largest dedicated multilateral climate fund, established to support impactful, innovative, and catalytic programs and projects in developing countries. The GCF has a significant portfolio comprising 297 projects across 133 countries, with a total financial commitment of USD 16.6 billion to date. In 2023, the Fund received an additional pledge of USD 12.8 billion to support its new strategic and programming cycle from 2024 to 202

• The GCF aims to grow its resources to at least USD 50 billion by 2030, focusing on mobilizing public and private sector financial flows for climate action. The organization is committed to addressing the needs of the most vulnerable populations and ensuring that its operations are efficient and impactful. With a robust risk appetite and flexibility, the GCF collaborates with various partners and stakeholders to create innovative partnerships that lead to profound impacts in climate action.

Job Overview:
The position of Senior Environmental, Social and Gender Consultant (ES and Gender Expert) is crucial for assisting the Accreditation Panel (AP) of the GCF in fulfilling its responsibilities. The consultant will work remotely and is expected to engage in a variety of tasks related to the operationalization of the revised Accreditation Framework (RAF) concerning the Fund’s environmental and social safeguards (ESS) standards and Updated Gender Policy. The role involves assessing accreditation applications against these standards and policies, ensuring that the accreditation process aligns with the GCF’s objectives. The consultant will also support the development of guidance relevant to the accreditation process and provide necessary outputs as required by the Secretariat. This position is initially for 120 days over a 12-month period, with the potential for extension, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and adaptability in the role.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Consultant will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including but not limited to: (a) Supporting and/or conducting assessments of accreditation applications in relation to the Fund’s ESS standards and Updated Gender Policy; (b) Participating in meetings via video conference, providing insights and comments during discussions with the Secretariat, Accreditation Committee, Accreditation Panel, and Board members throughout the accreditation process; (c) Attending Board meetings through video conferencing or other agreed methods to offer comments and address inquiries regarding the accreditation applications; (d) Assisting in the development of guidance for the accreditation process under the RAF, specifically related to the Fund’s ESS standards and Updated Gender Policy, by providing recommendations and written outputs; (e) Performing additional tasks relevant to the review of accreditation applications in the ESS and gender fields, as defined by the Secretariat in collaboration with the AP. This role requires a proactive approach and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities effectively.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a set of qualifications that include:

• A Master’s degree in a field related to climate change, environmental and social governance and performance, gender, or another relevant discipline;
• A minimum of 15 years of relevant experience with an international financial institution, such as a multilateral development bank or a major bilateral development agency, specifically in relation to ESS or related performance standards, including experience with private sector institutions;
• Proven expertise in identifying, assessing, and managing environmental and social risks associated with climate change or development project implementation, particularly in the context of multilateral funding;
• Practical experience in conducting and overseeing due diligence processes concerning environmental and social risks and impacts, especially in relation to financial intermediaries;
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, multicultural awareness, sound judgment, and a proactive work attitude;
• The ability to work independently as a self-starter while also collaborating effectively as part of a closely coordinated team to achieve the program's objectives;
• Fluency in written and spoken English;
• Strong competence in using standard software programs, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access, and web-based platforms.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant field, which may include climate change, environmental and social governance, gender studies, or other related disciplines. This educational background is essential to ensure that the consultant has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical understanding to effectively assess and manage environmental and social risks in the context of climate finance and development projects.

Experience:
The role requires at least 15 years of relevant experience, particularly with international financial institutions such as multilateral development banks or major bilateral development agencies. This extensive experience should encompass a deep understanding of environmental and social governance, performance standards, and the complexities involved in managing risks associated with climate change and development projects. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in environments that require high levels of expertise in assessing and managing environmental and social risks.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position, as effective communication is crucial for engaging with various stakeholders and participating in meetings. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the consultant's ability to work in diverse international contexts and communicate with a broader range of partners.

Additional Notes:
The application process encourages submissions from women and nationals of developing countries, reflecting the GCF's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Candidates of all nationalities are welcome to apply. The closing date for applications is set for 9 September 2026, at 23:59 (KST). It is important to note that applications received after this deadline may not be considered, emphasizing the need for timely submissions. The position is structured as a consultancy with an initial duration of 120 days over a 12-month period, allowing for flexibility and potential extension based on project needs and performance.