Description

IFC — a member of the World Bank Group — is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. We work in more than 100 countries, using our capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2023, IFC committed a record US$43.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging the power of the private sector to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity as economies grapple with the impacts of global compounding crises. For more information, visit www.ifc.org

The Gender and Sustainability Solutions Department (CEG) includes approximately 200 staff and consultants. As part of its mandate, CEG supports IFC’s investment and advisory teams to manage ESG risks associated with their activities and find solutions to client issues on basis of our Environmental and Social (E&S) Performance Standards(http://www.ifc.org/performancestandards) and the Corporate Governance Methodology (http://www.ifc.org/corporategovernance). CEG further leverages this expertise and operational experience in emerging markets to encourage the effective adoption of these standards by companies and investors across emerging markets. More details can be found at http://www.ifc.org/sustainability.

The Environment and Social (E&S) Development Specialist will provide guidance to clients, investment and advisory teams on E&S risk management vis-à-vis IFC Performance Standards and Sustainability Policy with the aim of promoting compliance with IFC’s Performance Standards and enhanced impact and additionality of IFC-supported investments and advisory mandates. This position will report to the Asia Regional Manager, with the East Asia and the Pacific Regional Team Lead for Direct Investments as primary Supervisor.

Duties and Accountabilities:  
i) Early Screening, Due Diligence, Portfolio supervision
•  Lead or support due diligence and monitoring of E&S risks and impacts in IFC investments in China and East Asia Pacific Region in multiple sectors: power, transport, municipal finance, telecoms, manufacturing, agribusiness and services.
•  Identify and develop E&S risk mitigation measures and value-add solutions that support clients in addressing identified issues; advise on structuring, mitigation measures and contractual alignment of interest to address risks and impacts.
•  Provide clear and responsive guidance to IFC investment teams on E&S risk management in project decision-making and processing considering E&S risk issues, including clear communication to teams and management in the investment cycle.
•  Prepare necessary E&S documentation and systems contributions at different stages of the investment cycle.
•  Discuss and support formulation of E&S legal conditions for projects legal agreements.
•  Proactively monitor portfolio clients and engage with clients to achieve compliance. Clearly document and communicate any outstanding or emerging gaps between client performance and IFC requirements, and related risks to IFC.
•  Support industry teams and clients in response to CAO and IEG requests, leading discussion with CAO and IEG officers.
•  In coordination with industry and CEG advisory teams, build capacity with clients on issues related to E&S issues, including clients’ monitoring and evaluation of E&S activities and outcomes.
•  Contribute to portfolio analysis to identify systemic issues and assess trends; or of policy nature and propose policy adjustments as needed.
•  Contribute to regional supervision program reviews.
ii) Upstream and Advisory Services
•  On the basis of portfolio analysis, help identify systemic bottlenecks existing in the market that prevent adequate E&S risk management in key markets, primarily China. In collaboration with Upstream officers and Advisory teams, help develop upstream activities by using technical experience and expertise.
•  Work proactively to identify opportunities for Advisory engagements that result in greater development impact and value for the client. Provide expert input into new IFC advisory offering.
iii) Knowledge Management
•  As needed, participate in cross-regional and global teams responsible for the preparation of policy interpretation notes on E&S topics and contribute to the corporate knowledge base by analyzing and disseminating lessons learned.
•  Participate in forums or conferences to showcase IFC experience, approach and value proposition.
•  Provide guidance to more junior staff and Short-Term Consultants (STCs) working on E&S risk management and supervise the timeliness and quality of their work, in coordination with Regional Team Lead. 

Selection Criteria

•  Master’s degree or equivalent in environment management, environmental engineering, climate change, social development or other relevant disciplines.
•  Minimum of 8 years of professional experience working on E&S management and due diligence in the international context, with a strong preference for experience in reviewing or managing E&S aspects of private sector investment projects in China.
•  Practical experience with internationally recognized E&S Policies and Standards. Experience with International Financial Institutions and/or World Bank Group Standards (IFC Performance Standards in particular) preferred.
•  Working experience in emerging markets, including fragile and conflict environment.
•  Willingness to travel regularly in emerging market countries (when conditions allow).
•  Strong analytical skills, ability to think strategically, analyze and synthesize diverse information sources, and draw conclusions from sometimes limited data.
•  Demonstrated ability to adapt to changing circumstances, organize and prioritize deliverables, and maintain attention to detail.
•  Ability to communicate effectively and concisely on complex environmental and social issues in spoken and written form, in a manner that can be understood by non-experts. English and Chinese language skills are essential.
•  Excellent interpersonal and communication skills including the ability to relate well with a wide range of internal and external parties (including senior staff, management, IFC’s accountability mechanism and clients) and develop solutions in potentially tense or conflicting situations.
•  Ability to work effectively as a member of a multi-disciplinary, multicultural team, influence and negotiate point of view within teams.
•  Exemplary project management skills and ability to manage multiple tasks under tight deadlines.
•  High personal integrity and emotional intelligence, with demonstrated ability to handle sensitive matters in a discreet and respectful manner. Diplomatic, calm under pressure. 

World Bank Group Core Competencies

The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan; medical, life and disability insurance; and paid leave, including parental leave, as well as reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity and inclusive employer with a dedicated and committed workforce, and do not discriminate based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.

Learn more about working at the World Bank and IFC, including our values and inspiring stories.