Environmental and Social Development Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group and is recognized as the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. Established to promote economic development by encouraging private sector investment, IFC operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization aims to leverage its capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries, with a mission to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity on a livable planet. IFC's work is crucial in fostering sustainable economic growth and improving living standards in the regions it serves. For more information about IFC and its initiatives, visit www.ifc.org.

Job Overview:
The Environmental & Social (E&S) Development Specialist position at IFC is designed for a dynamic and motivated individual with strong communication, interpersonal, and analytical skills. This role is pivotal in supporting IFC's Financial Intermediary (FI) business in the Eastern Africa region. The specialist will provide essential E&S guidance to FI clients and IFC's investment and advisory teams, ensuring compliance with IFC Performance Standards (PSs) and Sustainability Policy. The primary goal is to enhance the impact and additionality of IFC-supported business activities. The selected candidate will also serve as the Regional Industry Lead (RIL) for the FI sector in the region, reporting directly to the Regional ESG Manager for Eastern Africa. This position requires a proactive approach to E&S risk management and the ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders throughout the investment cycle.

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 advisory engagements within the Financial Intermediary sector, which encompasses Banks, Funds, Non-Bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs), and Micro Finance Institutions. The specialist will work on IFC investments throughout the project cycle, which includes early review, appraisal, public disclosure, board review and approval, commitment and disbursement, and project supervision, while delivering fully drafted project-related internal and external reports. Additionally, the specialist will identify and develop E&S risk mitigation measures and value-add solutions to assist clients in addressing identified issues. Providing clear guidance to IFC investment teams on E&S risk management during project decision-making is crucial, as is supporting FI clients in developing and implementing Environmental and Social Management Systems (ESMS). The role also involves overseeing proactive portfolio monitoring of high-risk projects, engaging with clients and investment departments to ensure compliance, and documenting any gaps between client performance and IFC requirements. The specialist will prepare management briefs on relevant E&S matters and contribute to regional supervision program reviews and periodic reports.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Environmental and Social Development Specialist position must possess an advanced degree (Masters) in science, engineering, or other relevant disciplines. A minimum of ten years of professional experience in E&S management, monitoring, and/or due diligence is required, with a preference for candidates who have experience in the financial sector within the African region. Familiarity with working in emerging markets, particularly in fragile and conflict environments, is essential. Experience with IFC/World Bank/E&S Policies and Standards, specifically IFC Performance Standards, is highly desirable. The candidate must demonstrate exemplary project management skills, the ability to manage multiple tasks under tight deadlines, and strong analytical skills. High personal integrity, emotional intelligence, and the ability to handle sensitive matters discreetly are also critical. Effective communication skills, both spoken and written, are necessary to convey complex environmental and social issues clearly to non-experts.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced degree (Masters) in relevant fields such as science, engineering, or other related disciplines. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of environmental and social issues in the context of financial intermediaries and investment projects.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of professional experience in environmental and social management, monitoring, and/or due diligence. Candidates with experience specifically in the financial sector within the African region will be preferred. The role also demands familiarity with working in emerging markets, particularly in fragile and conflict environments, which adds to the complexity of the responsibilities.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is essential for this role, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Additionally, knowledge of French is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 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 and without discrimination based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.