Senior Social Development Specialist, LAC Region

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 and improve living conditions, IFC operates in over 100 countries worldwide. Its mission is to leverage capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities that aim to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity on a livable planet. The organization employs a diverse workforce dedicated to sustainable development and social impact, making it a key player in the global development landscape.

Job Overview:
The Senior Social Development Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting IFC's business operations in the Central America, Caribbean, Colombia, and Mexico (CCM) region. This position requires a dynamic and motivated individual with strong communication, interpersonal, and analytical skills. The specialist will provide social guidance to clients and IFC’s investment and advisory teams, ensuring compliance with IFC Performance Standards and Sustainability Policy. The role involves promoting the impact and additionality of IFC-supported business activities, which is essential for fostering sustainable development in the region. The specialist will report directly to the ESG Regional Manager for the CCM region, contributing to the overall mission of the IFC by addressing social matters in investment decision-making processes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Social Development Specialist include leading and contributing to the review of social issues and risks in new investments, portfolio, and advisory engagements, including Public-Private Partnerships (PPP). The specialist will identify and develop social risk mitigation measures and value-add solutions to support clients in addressing identified issues. Clear guidance will be provided to IFC investment teams on social risk management throughout the investment cycle. The specialist will produce high-quality work products that frame risk mitigation, particularly concerning involuntary resettlement, labor issues, stakeholder engagement, and grievance mechanisms. Responsibilities also include preparing public disclosure documents for new investments, coordinating thematic specialists and consultants, monitoring portfolio clients, and engaging with clients to ensure compliance with E&S requirements. The specialist will contribute to portfolio analysis, assist in handling project-related complaints, and support industry teams in responding to requests from the Compliance Advisor Ombudsman (CAO) and Independent Evaluation Group (IEG). Additionally, the specialist will mentor project E&S teams and provide capacity building to clients on conducting E&S Impact Assessments and developing Stakeholder Engagement Plans.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline such as Sociology, Anthropology, Economics, Political Science, or other related social sciences. A minimum of twelve years of professional experience in E&S management, monitoring, or due diligence is required, with a preference for private sector experience in the LAC region. Candidates should have experience working with the IFC Sustainability Framework and supporting documents, as well as direct engagement with community members, CSOs, and NGOs. Experience in gender-based violence (GBV) and social inclusion is desirable. Strong organizational skills, project management capabilities, and the ability to handle multiple tasks under tight deadlines are essential. Candidates must demonstrate high personal integrity, emotional intelligence, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as Sociology, Anthropology, Economics, Political Science, or other related social sciences. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of social development and the various factors that influence social issues in the context of private sector investments.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of twelve years of professional experience in environmental and social management, monitoring, and due diligence. Candidates should have a strong preference for experience in the private sector within the LAC region, focusing on social issues such as grievance management, community engagement, resettlement, and labor standards. Experience with the IFC Sustainability Framework and direct engagement with community stakeholders is essential for success in this role.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Spanish is mandatory for this position, as effective communication with a wide range of internal and external parties is crucial. Candidates should be able to communicate persuasively and present complex E&S risks and management solutions in an understandable manner. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is an international recruitment opportunity with a contract duration of three years. The role is full-time and may require regular travel to IFC client countries. 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 diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.