Environmental & Social Development Specialist – Eastern Africa

About the role

The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is looking for a dynamic Environmental & Social Development Specialist to support its Financial Intermediary business across Eastern Africa. Based in Nairobi, you will provide expert guidance on IFC Performance Standards and Sustainability Policy, helping clients and internal teams manage environmental and social risks.

Key responsibilities

• Review E&S documentation for new investments and advisory engagements in the Financial Intermediary sector.
• Provide E&S oversight throughout the project cycle, including appraisal, public disclosure, board review, commitment, disbursement, and supervision.
• Develop and draft internal and external documents supporting IFC investments.
• Identify and design risk mitigation measures and value‑add solutions for clients.
• Guide investment teams on E&S risk management and support formulation of E&S provisions in legal agreements.
• Monitor portfolio clients for compliance with agreed E&S conditions and document gaps.
• Assist clients in building and implementing Environmental and Social Management Systems (ESMS) and provide capacity‑building support.
• Support industry teams and clients during CAO investigations and IEG requests.
• Contribute to regional portfolio reviews, policy interpretation notes, and knowledge‑sharing initiatives.

Required profile

• Strong communication, interpersonal and analytical abilities.
• Experience working with financial intermediaries such as banks, funds, NBFIs or micro‑finance institutions.
• Knowledge of IFC Performance Standards, Sustainability Policy and ESG best practices.
• Proven ability to lead assessments, manage resources and deliver timely deliverables.
• Capacity to work collaboratively with investment teams and external stakeholders.

Required skills

• Understanding of environmental and social risk assessment methodologies.
• Familiarity with ESG reporting frameworks and standards.
• Ability to draft clear, concise E&S documentation.