(Senior) Social Development Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a global organization dedicated to addressing the world's most pressing development challenges. Established to reduce poverty and promote sustainable economic growth, the WBG operates in 145 countries with over 182 offices worldwide. The organization employs a diverse workforce that collaborates across cultures and disciplines to create impactful solutions. The WBG's mission is to invest in people, strengthen markets, and deliver scalable, data-driven solutions that generate more and better jobs, ultimately improving lives. For more information, visit www.worldbank.org.

Job Overview:
The Senior Social Development Specialist position at the World Bank Group is a critical role within the Chief Risk Officer (CRO) Vice Presidency, which is responsible for institutional risk oversight across the organization. The selected candidate will play a vital role in supporting independent oversight of operations and portfolios, focusing on social risk management. This position requires a seasoned professional with strong technical judgment and substantial experience in social risk management. The specialist will work collaboratively with regional teams and technical specialists to identify project-level and systemic social risks, assess mitigation strategies, and provide strategic advice to senior management. The role emphasizes the importance of stakeholder engagement, grievance mechanisms, and the protection of Indigenous Peoples, ensuring that the WBG's operations align with its commitment to social responsibility and sustainable development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Social Development Specialist will be responsible for a range of duties, including: conducting independent reviews of operations across the WBG to assess material social risks and implementation readiness; reviewing project documentation such as social assessments and stakeholder engagement plans; providing technical opinions on labor conditions, land acquisition, and Indigenous Peoples; monitoring social risk and performance across portfolios; conducting thematic reviews to identify systemic issues; analyzing significant risk events; supporting oversight of projects subject to complaints or public controversy; providing senior technical advice during management reviews; contributing to tools and guidance for social risk oversight; and mentoring junior colleagues. This role requires a proactive approach to identifying risks and recommending improvements to institutional practices.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or higher in social sciences, anthropology, sociology, development studies, law, labor relations, or a related discipline. A minimum of 8 to 10 years of relevant professional experience in social risk management is required, with demonstrated expertise in at least two of the core thematic areas: labor, land acquisition and resettlement, stakeholder engagement, and Indigenous Peoples. Proven experience in assessing and managing social risks in various sectors, including infrastructure and extractives, is essential. Strong knowledge of the World Bank Environmental and Social Framework and comparable international standards is also required. Candidates should exhibit strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, excellent communication abilities, and the capacity to manage sensitive matters with integrity.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master's degree or higher in relevant fields such as social sciences, anthropology, sociology, development studies, law, or labor relations. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of social risk management and the various factors that influence development outcomes.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8 to 10 years of professional experience in social risk management, particularly in complex operations within emerging markets and developing economies. Experience in fragile and conflict-affected situations is desirable, as it demonstrates the ability to navigate challenging environments and address unique social risks.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in additional languages is preferred, as it can enhance communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders across different regions.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as Open-Ended Staff (OPEN-OP) and is part of an international recruitment effort. 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 candidates regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The role may require international travel and the ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.