Associate Director, Sustainable Project Procurement (AD-SPP)

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) was established in 1991 with the mission to promote transition towards open market-oriented economies and to foster private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia. The EBRD has invested over EUR 215 billion in more than 7,600 projects across its countries of operation, focusing on both public and private sectors. The organization operates in 38 countries and employs a diverse workforce that reflects a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. The EBRD is committed to sustainability, equality, and digital transformation, making it a unique and innovative workplace.

Job Overview:
The Associate Director, Sustainable Project Procurement (AD-SPP) plays a pivotal role in leading the Bank’s thematic approach to sustainable and strategic project procurement across public sector operations. This position is responsible for providing authoritative advice on procurement policy, standards, governance, and risk management. The AD-SPP shapes the development and consistent implementation of the Bank’s Procurement Policies and Rules (PPR), associated guidance, and operational standards. The role involves overseeing the application of sustainability and strategic procurement requirements in complex Bank-financed operations, engaging with senior Bank management, governance bodies, clients, implementing agencies, and other stakeholders. The AD-SPP promotes integrity, consistency, efficiency, and effectiveness in procurement, supporting improved project outcomes and the Bank’s broader transition objectives, while ensuring that procurement responsibility remains with the borrower or implementing entity.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Director include leading the development and enhancement of Bank procurement policy, guidance, and standards related to sustainable procurement and strategic procurement. The AD-SPP will provide advice to senior management and operational staff on complex procurement and sustainability matters, manage procurement activities with operation leaders and technical teams, and ensure the integration of sustainability requirements into procurement strategies and documentation. The role also involves establishing the Bank’s approach to strategic procurement and value for money methodologies, integrating climate and low-carbon procurement considerations, and shaping market engagement practices. Additionally, the AD-SPP will ensure compliance with sustainability commitments, provide strategic oversight on contract implementation, and monitor project performance data.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess advanced expertise in Multilateral Development Bank (MDB) procurement with a focus on sustainability, demonstrating hands-on experience in integrating sustainability and climate requirements into complex project procurement processes. Substantial experience in designing and implementing sustainable procurement strategies for large-scale infrastructure projects is essential. The role requires expertise in advanced value-for-money and sustainable evaluation methodologies, as well as specialized knowledge of circular and low-carbon procurement systems. Experience in policy leadership and contributing to institutional initiatives on sustainable public procurement is also required, along with the ability to lead specialist teams and influence senior stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A degree in Business, Finance, Law, Engineering, or a related field is required. Professional certification such as CIPS or an equivalent qualification would be advantageous. Candidates should have a strong educational foundation that supports their ability to engage in complex procurement and sustainability discussions.

Experience:
The position requires substantial hands-on experience managing project procurement in MDB-financed operations, particularly within emerging and transitioning economies. Candidates should have a proven track record of embedding sustainability commitments into implementation, contract management, and performance verification frameworks. Experience in leading high-impact, multi-stakeholder environments is also essential, demonstrating the ability to influence and drive adoption of sustainable procurement practices in complex project settings.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory, and proficiency in another working language of the Bank would be advantageous. Candidates should possess excellent communication skills, enabling them to convey complex information clearly and effectively to diverse audiences.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position with a regular contract type. The role is based in London, United Kingdom, and the application deadline is set for October 11, 202

• The EBRD promotes a hybrid workplace that offers flexibility and prioritizes employee wellbeing, providing a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits. The organization values diversity and encourages all qualified candidates from EBRD member countries to apply, regardless of their background.