The International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank Group, is offering a senior-level opportunity for an Environmental and Social Development Specialist based in New Delhi. This role is designed for experienced professionals seeking to contribute to sustainable development by supporting private sector investments in emerging markets.

The position plays a critical role in ensuring that projects financed by IFC align with environmental and social (E&S) standards, while also maximizing development impact across sectors such as infrastructure, manufacturing, services, and agribusiness.

Organisational Context

The IFC is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in developing countries. Operating in over 100 countries, it leverages capital, expertise, and partnerships to create markets and opportunities that reduce poverty and promote shared prosperity.

As part of the broader World Bank Group, the IFC contributes to global development by supporting sustainable private sector growth and mobilising investment in high-impact sectors.

Role Overview

The Environmental and Social Development Specialist is responsible for providing technical expertise on E&S risk management across investment and advisory projects in South Asia. The role involves working closely with clients, investment teams, and stakeholders to ensure compliance with IFC Performance Standards and Sustainability Policies.

The position reports to the Regional ESG Manager and requires a high level of analytical capability, strategic thinking, and stakeholder engagement.

Key Responsibilities

The role encompasses a wide range of technical, advisory, and oversight functions:

Environmental and Social Risk Assessment
- Review E&S risks in new investments and advisory projects
- Conduct due diligence across multiple sectors
- Prepare public disclosure and internal documentation
Project Support and Advisory
- Provide guidance to investment teams throughout the project lifecycle
- Develop risk mitigation strategies and value-added solutions
- Support formulation of E&S legal requirements
Portfolio Monitoring and Compliance
- Monitor client performance against E&S standards
- Identify gaps and recommend corrective actions
- Engage clients to ensure ongoing compliance
Policy and Knowledge Contribution
- Contribute to policy development and interpretation
- Analyse trends and systemic issues across portfolios
- Share lessons learned and build institutional knowledge
Stakeholder Engagement and Reporting
- Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders
- Support responses to oversight bodies such as accountability mechanisms
- Prepare management briefs and periodic reports
Capacity Building and Team Leadership
- Support client capacity development in E&S practices
- Guide consultants and junior team members
- Participate in cross-regional initiatives and knowledge-sharing efforts

Required Qualifications

Candidates must demonstrate strong academic credentials and extensive professional experience in environmental and social risk management.

Minimum Requirements:

Master’s degree in science, engineering, sociology, or a related field
At least 10 years of professional experience in E&S management, monitoring, or due diligence
Experience working in emerging markets, particularly in South or Southeast Asia
Familiarity with IFC or World Bank environmental and social standards
Strong project management and analytical skills
Proficiency in English

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in private sector projects across infrastructure, agribusiness, or manufacturing
Exposure to fragile or conflict-affected environments
Knowledge of South Asian languages
Demonstrated ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects

Core Competencies and Skills

The role requires a combination of technical expertise and interpersonal effectiveness. Key competencies include:

Strategic thinking and problem-solving
Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
Ability to work under pressure and manage competing priorities
High levels of integrity and emotional intelligence
Capacity to influence and negotiate across diverse teams
Adaptability in dynamic and multicultural environments

Work Environment and Benefits

The position is offered as a three-year international recruitment contract, providing an opportunity to work within a globally respected institution. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

Retirement and pension plans
Medical, life, and disability insurance
Paid leave, including parental leave
Support for professional development
Inclusive and diverse workplace environment

The role may require regular travel across the South Asia region, depending on project needs.

Why This Role Matters

This position is central to ensuring that development projects deliver sustainable and responsible outcomes. By integrating environmental and social considerations into investment decisions, the Specialist helps mitigate risks, protect communities, and enhance long-term project success.

The role contributes directly to global efforts aimed at reducing poverty, promoting sustainability, and fostering inclusive economic growth.

Application Details

Location: New Delhi
Organisation: International Finance Corporation
Closing Date: 8 May 2026
Contract Duration: 3 years

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply before the deadline and ensure that their experience aligns with the technical and strategic requirements of the role.

Conclusion

The Environmental and Social Development Specialist role offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of sustainable development within the private sector. By combining technical expertise with strategic influence, the position enables professionals to shape impactful projects across emerging markets.

For experienced practitioners in environmental and social governance, this role represents a meaningful pathway to contribute to global development while working within a leading international institution.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.