International Social Development Specialist

WSP's International ESG Advisory team is seeking an experienced International Social Development Specialist to support and grow their rapidly expanding international lender advisory and ESG due diligence business.

The successful candidate will provide technical leadership on social risk management across infrastructure, renewable energy, mining, industrial, agribusiness, transport, and urban development projects globally.

The role is particularly focused on land acquisition, involuntary resettlement, economic displacement, livelihood restoration, stakeholder engagement, and social impact assessment in accordance with international lender requirements.

Technical Delivery

• Leading major international Environmental and Social Due Diligence (ESDD), Social Impact Assessment (SIA), Human Rights and Social Risk Assessments.
• Directing the identification, assessment, and management of social risks and impacts throughout project development, construction, and operation.
• Providing expert advice on complex social issues including:
• Land acquisition and involuntary resettlement;
• Livelihood restoration;
• Stakeholder engagement;
• Labour and working conditions;
• Human rights and supply chain risks;
• Community health, safety, and security;
• Gender equality, social inclusion, and vulnerable groups.
• Developing and reviewing:
• Social Management Plans;
• Resettlement Action Plans (RAPs);
• Livelihood Restoration Plans (LRPs);
• Labour Management Plans;
• Stakeholder Engagement Plans;
• Human Rights Assessments and Relevant Management Plans;
• Gender Action Plans and Equal Opportunities Action Plans.
• Defining corrective action plans, monitoring measures, and verification approaches to support compliance with lender requirements and international good practice.

ESG and Lender Advisory

• Acting as a trusted advisor to clients seeking alignment with IFC Performance Standards, Equator Principles, EBRD Environmental and Social Requirements, World Bank Environmental and Social Framework, ADB SPS, and other international ESG frameworks.
• Supporting lenders and developers through project financing processes, including pre-financial close due diligence, construction monitoring, and operational ESG reviews.
• Providing strategic advice on social performance, responsible sourcing, labour rights, and human rights due diligence.

Project and Client Leadership

• Managing multidisciplinary project teams and the successful delivery of complex international assignments across multiple geographies.
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, financial institutions, and development partners.
• Supporting business development activities, including proposal preparation, client engagement, and technical leadership in bids and tenders.
• Identifying growth opportunities in social sustainability, responsible business conduct, and ESG advisory services.

Team Development

• Providing technical leadership, coaching, and mentoring to social and ESG practitioners.
• Building capability across the wider ESG team in social risk management, human rights, and stakeholder engagement.
• Supporting the development of innovative methodologies, tools, and thought leadership in social performance and sustainable development.
• Support growth of the international social development practice.
• Strengthen WSP's reputation as a leading provider of international lender social advisory services.

Qualifications and Experience

• Degree in social sciences, development studies, anthropology, sociology, geography, environmental management, international development, or related discipline.
• Master's degree preferred.
• Significant professional experience in social sustainability, social performance, ESG advisory, or international development.
• Extensive experience delivering sustainable finance projects across international markets.

Technical Expertise Demonstrated expertise in several of the following:

• Social Impact Assessment (SIA);
• Environmental and Social Due Diligence (ESDD);
• Land Acquisition and Resettlement;
• Livelihood Restoration;
• Human Rights Due Diligence;
• Labour and Working Conditions;
• Gender Equality and Social Inclusion;
• Stakeholder Engagement and Community Development;
• Social Performance Monitoring;
• ESG and Sustainable Finance advisory.

International Standards Strong project finance/lender advisory background and working knowledge of:

• IFC Performance Standards;
• Equator Principles EP4;
• EBRD Environmental and Social Requirements;
• World Bank Environmental and Social Framework;
• ADB Environmental and Social Framework/Safeguards;
• UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights;
• OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises.

Additional Attributes

• Excellent report writing and communication skills in English.
• Knowledge of other languages is preferable, including Turkish, French, Spanish, Arabic, Russian, or Portuguese.
• Proven project management and client-facing experience.
• Experience working across emerging markets.
• Willingness to travel internationally.
• Track record of mentoring and developing teams.
• Strong commercial awareness and business development capability.
• Existing relationships with DFIs, IFIs, or project sponsors