Environmental and Social Compliance Senior 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 leverage the power of the private sector, IFC aims to end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity on a livable planet. The organization operates in over 100 countries, utilizing its capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities. Additionally, the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) works to promote cross-border investment in developing countries by providing guarantees such as political risk insurance and credit enhancement to investors and lenders. The IFC and MIGA work collaboratively to enhance environmental and social outcomes in their projects, ensuring that the needs and concerns of affected communities are addressed effectively.

Job Overview:
The Environmental and Social Compliance Senior Specialist will play a pivotal role within the Office of the Compliance Advisor Ombudsman (CAO), which is tasked with addressing complaints from individuals affected by the activities of IFC and MIGA. This position requires a deep understanding of environmental and social standards, as the Senior Specialist will lead complex analyses of compliance issues related to these standards. The role involves preparing comprehensive reports that summarize findings and recommendations, as well as identifying opportunities for learning from compliance case work. The Senior Specialist will work closely with various stakeholders, including IFC/MIGA staff, community groups, NGOs, and private sector sponsors, while maintaining the independence and integrity of the CAO. This position is critical in ensuring that the IFC and MIGA adhere to their environmental and social policies and that any harm caused by their activities is addressed appropriately.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Specialist will be responsible for managing multiple compliance cases simultaneously, applying in-depth technical expertise and judgment to lead analyses of compliance with IFC environmental and social standards. Key duties include providing technical leadership in the design and organization of compliance appraisals, serving as the lead author of compliance reports, and ensuring that resources are allocated appropriately. The role also involves stakeholder management, where the Senior Specialist will represent CAO at meetings and collaborate with the Advisory team to disseminate knowledge and lessons learned. Additionally, the Senior Specialist will integrate diverse issues into cohesive reports, design research approaches for compliance analysis, and supervise junior staff involved in research and coordination support. The position requires a proactive approach to coaching and guiding compliance employees and promoting teamwork and innovation within the compliance team.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant environmental field, such as environmental sciences or environmental engineering. A minimum of 10-12 years of relevant experience in environmental policy and compliance analysis is required, particularly in relation to the application of environmental and social standards at the corporate and operational levels of international financial institutions (IFIs). Experience working with private sector clients in emerging markets across various sectors, including energy, agribusiness, extractive industries, infrastructure, and financial intermediaries, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate a proven ability to interpret and apply environmental and social policies and standards, with a track record of developing and managing best practices in compliance and audit strategies. Strong proficiency in assessing environmental impacts and risks in development projects is necessary, along with in-depth knowledge of emerging practices in environmental and social risk management.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master’s degree in a relevant environmental field, such as environmental sciences or environmental engineering. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of environmental and social compliance and for effectively analyzing compliance issues related to IFC and MIGA activities.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 10-12 years of relevant experience in environmental policy and compliance analysis. This experience should particularly focus on the application of environmental and social standards at the corporate and operational levels of international financial institutions. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in working with private sector clients in emerging markets and will be familiar with a wide range of sectors, including energy, agribusiness, extractive industries, infrastructure, and financial intermediaries.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. While English is required, knowledge of additional languages is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is an international recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years. The role is full-time and involves working in a highly sensitive and politically charged environment. 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.