Planning & Assessment- Principal Consultant (ESIA Lead)

About the company

SLR is expanding its global footprint. As such, we are continuously looking for talented people to join our team and add value to Our Business. We are particularly interested in adding team members to our Planning and Assessment team in South Africa.

We are recognised as one of the global leaders in environmental and advisory solutions, helping our clients achieve their sustainability goals. SLR has over 100 offices in 13 different countries worldwide, and we actively encourage collaboration and learning among the many disciplines and services we offer globally.

At SLR, you can expect a flexible and supportive 'One Team’ culture that is at the heart of our business and ensures that we offer a rewarding workplace. You will be able to work alongside industry leaders and specialists on interesting projects and be part of a team that makes a difference.

Job Purpose

The International ESIA Lead will play a pivotal role in driving the strategic development and expansion of international environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) services across Africa, within the renewables, energy, infrastructure and mining sectors. This position will focus on identifying and securing new opportunities aligned with international lender requirements, forging strategic partnerships, and positioning the business as a trusted provider of high-quality ESIA and sustainability advisory services in emerging African markets. The role will also involve supporting the integration of international best practices into project delivery, contributing to thought leadership, and strengthening regional capacity to deliver lender-compliant, multidisciplinary projects.

The International ESIA Lead will also serve as Project Director on key international assignments, providing high-level oversight to ensure that all deliverables are technically sound, meet client expectations, and comply with international lender standards, including those of the International Finance Corporation, World Bank, and Equator Principles. The role involves leading multidisciplinary teams through the full ESIA lifecycle—from initial planning and baseline assessments to impact analysis, mitigation development, stakeholder engagement, and final reporting and submission. In this capacity, the International ESIA Lead will be responsible for upholding rigorous quality assurance and risk management standards and ensuring timely, within budget, and scope-aligned project delivery. A core focus will be on building and maintaining strong client relationships through clear communication, technical excellence, and proactive responsiveness to project needs.

Minimum Requirements & Responsibilities:

• Over 15 years’ experience in ESIAs in South Africa and Africa.

• B.Sc. (Hons) or Master’s in environmental or Natural Sciences or similar qualification.

• Must have a sound knowledge of ESIA processes to lender standards.

• Must have sound project management knowledge (methodology, proposal/ report compilation, budget control, timely project completion, write-off presentation skills, etc.).

• Must develop and sustain client relationships, leading to repeat business.

• Must be able to lead the preparation and submission of winning proposals.

• Must be able to manage large, multi-disciplinary, complex ESIA projects.

• Must be able to travel within African countries.

• Must be able to review reports.

• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint and Excel.

• Should have a valid driver’s license.

Skills/ Attributes:

• Sound report writing skills.

• Excellent command / highly proficient in spoken and written English.

• Excellent time management skills and ability to multi-task and prioritise work.

• Attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

• Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment.

• Excellent organisational, communication and interpersonal skills.

• Should be able to work well in a team and communicate confidently with others.

• The ability to work to deadlines and within set budgets is essential.

SLR’s approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered part of the recruitment process. We actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply. SLR is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates, and values diversity and inclusion.

Originally posted on Himalayas