Senior Social Development Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global partnership of five institutions dedicated to ending extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity. Established in 1944, it has grown to include 189 member countries and operates in over 120 offices worldwide. The organization focuses on providing funding and knowledge to developing countries, addressing various global challenges through innovative projects and partnerships. The World Bank Group aims to create sustainable solutions that improve the lives of people in developing nations, particularly in regions facing significant challenges such as fragility, climate change, and social exclusion.

Job Overview:
The Senior Social Development Specialist position at the World Bank is a critical role aimed at leading social risk management in the Bank’s operations in Kenya and Somalia. The specialist will provide technical and programmatic support to enhance country systems for managing social and environmental risks, promoting citizen engagement, and ensuring social accountability. This role is essential for improving social inclusion, resilience, and empowerment in World Bank-supported operations. The specialist will work closely with various stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society, and development partners, to address deep-rooted social issues and foster inclusive development. The position requires a proactive approach to engage with local communities and ensure that projects are designed and implemented with a focus on social sustainability and inclusion.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Social Development Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including advising task teams and clients on the Bank’s Environment and Social Framework (ESF) and Operational Policies. The specialist will provide technical support in areas such as land acquisition, stakeholder engagement, and grievance redress mechanisms. They will conduct social due diligence, prepare Environmental and Social Risks Review Summaries (ESRS), and engage in policy dialogue with borrowers on social sustainability issues. The specialist will also lead analytical and operational engagements, support government agencies in implementing social risk management plans, and ensure compliance with the Bank’s social standards. Additionally, the role involves supervising consultants, providing timely feedback on social assessment products, and participating in project preparation and supervision activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Senior Social Development Specialist position must possess a master’s degree in social sciences or a related field. They should have a minimum of 8 years of direct professional experience in managing social and environmental risks in infrastructure projects, particularly in the energy, water, and urban development sectors. Knowledge of global sustainability frameworks and experience in fragile and conflict-affected areas are highly desirable. Strong organizational skills, the ability to work in multicultural environments, and excellent communication skills in English are essential. Familiarity with local languages, such as Kiswahili, is a plus.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes at least a master’s degree in social sciences, such as Development Studies, Social Anthropology, Sociology, Gender and Development, or International Development. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of social issues and developing effective strategies for social risk management and inclusion.

Experience:
The position requires extensive experience, specifically a minimum of 8 years in managing social and environmental risks in various sectors, including infrastructure, energy, and urban development. Candidates should demonstrate a strong track record of working in complex project settings and addressing social risk management throughout the project lifecycle. Experience in engaging with diverse stakeholders and leading initiatives in social sustainability is also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as strong written and oral communication skills are required to effectively engage with various stakeholders. Knowledge of Kiswahili and other local languages in Kenya is considered an advantage, as it can enhance communication and engagement with local communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years. The role is full-time and based in Nairobi, Kenya. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or disability.