Social Development Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global partnership consisting of five institutions dedicated to ending extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity. Established with 189 member countries, the organization has over 120 offices worldwide, focusing on providing funding and knowledge to developing nations. The World Bank aims to address the most pressing global challenges through innovative projects, data-driven research, and technology. The Eastern and Southern Africa Region, where this position is located, encompasses 26 countries and is home to approximately 700 million people, highlighting the diverse cultural and economic landscape of the region. The World Bank's mission in this area includes job creation, economic transformation, and addressing social challenges, particularly in fragile contexts.

Job Overview:
The Social Development Specialist will serve as a Country Social Risk Management specialist for Madagascar, with potential responsibilities in other countries within the region. This role involves close collaboration with various stakeholders, including the SD CMU Coordinator and the SAES3 Regional Social Standards Coordinator. The specialist will be responsible for advising task teams and clients on social risk management and optimizing social benefits throughout the project cycle. The position requires a strong understanding of the Environment and Social Framework (ESF) standards and the ability to provide technical support on social risk management aspects, including involuntary resettlement and stakeholder engagement. The specialist will also participate in missions, review project documents, and assist in capacity building for Project Implementation Units (PIUs).

Duties and Responsibilities:
Key duties include advising on ESF and social risk management, providing technical support for projects, participating in missions and meetings, reviewing relevant project documents, assisting in training PIUs, and ensuring timely reporting on social development issues. The specialist will also engage in stakeholder and citizen engagement, gender issues, social inclusion, and community development. The role requires proactive monitoring and management of social development issues, as well as collaboration with multi-disciplinary teams to achieve project goals.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (PhD or Masters) in social sciences such as Anthropology, Sociology, Political Science, or Law, along with strong technical skills. A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in social risk management is required, with experience in involuntary resettlement and gender-based violence being advantageous. Fluency in English and French is mandatory, while knowledge of Malagasy is desirable. Familiarity with World Bank environmental and social standards or those of other multilateral agencies is preferred, along with strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree (PhD or Masters) in social sciences is required for this position. This educational background should provide a solid foundation in understanding social dynamics, policy-making processes, and the complexities of social development in various contexts.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of full-time relevant professional experience in social risk management, particularly in project design and implementation support. Experience in fragile and conflict-affected contexts is highly valued, as is familiarity with the operational and analytical aspects of social development strategies.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is required for this position, encompassing writing, speaking, listening, and reading skills. Knowledge of Malagasy is considered a desirable asset, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This is a locally recruited position with a term duration of 3 years. The conditions of employment will align with the local employment market in Madagascar. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.