Location: Bengaluru, Noida, Mumbai We are WSP - Join us and make your career future ready! In today’s world it’s important to work for a company that has clear purpose, giving back to communities and supporting what is truly important in the world. When considering a career move its vital to work for a business that is aligned to your values and goals, a place where you can belong. See what WSP stands for in 2024 and beyond About the Role: We are seeking a motivated and experienced Social Expert to join our International ESG transactions and strategy advisory team working on international ESG due diligence and ESIA projects for a wide range of financial and industrial clients. We provide Environmental & Social (E&S) Due Diligence (ESDD) often acting as lenders’ Independent E&S Advisor or working with the Project Company to align with the lender’s E&S policies as part of project financing, but we also develop and prepare ESIAs in line with international funder environmental and social standards. The role will build on our excellent track record and expand on our international ESG expertise, helping to provide ESG support, manage, deliver and develop our ESG technical services, win new business, and to effectively respond to ESG strategic advisory and Sustainable Finance driven market opportunities. The job will include involvement in technical and project management aspects of a variety of projects often located in developing countries such as South America, Europe/Far Eastern Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Responsibilities The resource will play a key role in Lead the preparation of Social Impact Assessments and other required social documentation, ensuring alignment with international standards, including the World Bank’s Environmental and Social Standards (ESS), IFC guidelines, and other global frameworks. Supporting the development and implementation of environmental and social management systems Technical support to various team members to identify social risks and manage those risks including recommendations to mitigate social risks and optimize project benefits. Providing assistance to clients in meeting international lender standards and advise on international best practice in social performance. Ensure human rights considerations are central to the project’s social planning. Provide expert advice on creating and executing Resettlement Action Plans (RAPs) and livelihood restoration strategies, ensuring they align with international best practices and meet project-specific requirements. Support the design and implementation of stakeholder engagement plans and grievance mechanisms, ensuring continuous and transparent engagement with local communities, authorities, and key stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle. Integrating culturally sensitive strategies to ensure the inclusion of underrepresented groups and marginalized communities. Provide training and capacity-building support to internal teams, contractors, and key stakeholders on topics such as social impact management, human rights, and community relations. Focus on knowledge transfer and skills development in emerging markets, empowering local stakeholders and teams to drive social performance improvement. Building strong working relationships and collaborating widely with WSPs international environmental and ESG due diligence teams to manage and develop service quality. Working with project Associates within countries and regions of operation; Delivery of work through well written and succinct reports and presentations to clients; Preparation of marketing materials and proposals as required. Essential: 8 to 10 years of international experience in consulting roles with focus on social impact assessments, human rights, indigenous peoples, land acquisition, and livelihood restoration. a primary degree in a relevant subject such as Social science, E&S studies, supported by relevant experience commensurate with the role. A secondary/ post-graduate qualification related to the role would be highly desirable. A proven track record of working with international financial institutions (World Bank, IFC, EBRD, ADB and other lender) and applying their social safeguard policies. Extensive experience providing consultancy services on large-scale capital projects, particularly in key sectors such as energy, sustainable finance, mining, and nature-based solutions. Have a deep understanding of international E&S standards, incl. Equator Principles, IFC Performance Standards, EBRD Performance Requirements, World Bank EHS Guidelines. Keeping up to date with the latest developments, regulations and standards in the ESG space; Expert knowledge of social safeguard policies and standards from institutions such as the World Bank, IFC, and other international financial institutions (IFIs). Demonstrated expertise in designing and leading socially innovative solutions that enhance project outcomes and community benefits in emerging markets. A strong consulting background with the ability to independently lead projects and provide strategic advice. Expertise in stakeholder engagement and conflict resolution in multicultural settings. Client focused - client facing, confident communicator and fluent spoken/written English. Excellent written and verbal communication skills and be fully IT literate as you will be required to write and review clear, concise and technically robust reports. Good interpersonal skills with ability for building internal and external relationships and networks; proven ability to confidently deliver to tight timelines and work cross-culturally in an international working environment. Desirable: strong experience in Social sector; strong relationships with international lenders/IFIs; Some Recent ESG Project Commissions Include: ESHS due diligence of mining assets across Eastern Europe ESG Mine tailings assessments, Global ESHS Monitoring of a new roadway in Ghana E&S due diligence of a portfolio of 9 airports in Brazil ESIA development in support of a new high speed rail link in north-western Turkey Gender assessment of a new roadway in Kazakhstan ESG assessment of a Garment factory, Jordan E&S due diligence and construction monitoring of a new wind farm in Northern Macedonia ESIA of a new hydrodam in Tajikistan ESIA of x 2 new CCGTs in Hungary CCGT ESHS operational monitoring, Uzbekistan Management systems design, development and implementation Conducting gap analyses for clients’ alignment to TCFD recommendations, developing actions plans and helping to implement (including for financial services and asset managers/owners). A Typical Week Would Include: 1. Working in an international team, delivering high quality written outputs within agreed time periods Proven communicator, with excellent research and analytical skills Ability to work both independently and in a team environment. Able to work efficiently and effectively managing a number of tasks in parallel Contributing to various types of reports, deliverables and services such as ESG due diligence reports, briefing notes, ESIA reviews, developing supplementary studies, management systems, management plans, ESAPs and training Willingness to travel Apply now and be the future of WSP! #WeAreWSP Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria, please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application. Please note WSP reserves the right to close the vacancy before the advertised closing date.
