Social Development Specialist

Responsibilities

• Lead social risk screening, due diligence, and portfolio supervision for investments in sectors including infrastructure, mining, energy, agribusiness, and manufacturing.
• Identify, assess, and develop pragmatic risk management strategies and mitigation measures in alignment with IFC Performance Standards.
• Provide guidance to clients and IFC investment teams to ensure projects remain aligned with social sustainability requirements throughout the project cycle.
• Monitor portfolio clients and document emerging gaps between project performance and IFC requirements.
• Support upstream and advisory services by identifying market bottlenecks and developing activities to enhance social risk management.
• Contribute to regional E&S portfolio analysis, policy interpretation, and the corporate knowledge base.
• Mentor junior staff and participate in global teams to disseminate lessons learned from project work.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Sociology, Anthropology, Social Sciences, International Development, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 10+ years of professional experience in social risk management of projects.
• Demonstrated expertise in implementing IFC Performance Standards during E&S due diligence processes.
• Substantial experience managing risks related to land acquisition, involuntary resettlement, Indigenous Peoples, stakeholder engagement, and labor conditions.
• Proficiency in English and fluency in Spanish or Portuguese is essential.
• Proven experience working in emerging markets, including fragile or conflict-affected environments.
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and negotiation skills with the ability to communicate complex issues to non-experts.
• Willingness to travel regularly within emerging market countries.

About the Company

The International Finance Corporation (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 to promote sustainable development and end poverty.