Principal ESG Manager

Role Overview

ESS is seeking a Principal ESG Manager to play a strategic and technical leadership role across its ESG activities. This position is suited to a seasoned professional capable of leading complex ESIA processes, conducting ESG due diligence, and advising clients at a senior level, while managing multiple high-impact assignments across the region. He will be doing site visits as required depending on the projects that will be assigned to him.

Key Responsibilities

ESG Advisory & Technical Leadership

• Provide expert guidance on ESG standards (IFC Performance Standards, World Bank, etc.)

• Support the development and implementation of ESG strategies across client projects

• Act as a subject matter expert in ESIA and environmental and social risk management

ESIA & E&S Management

• Lead or review Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIAs)

• Oversee ESMP implementation and monitoring

• Ensure quality control of deliverables from consultants and partners

Project Management

• Manage multiple ESG assignments simultaneously

• Coordinate with clients, consultants, and internal teams

• Track timelines, deliverables, and budgets

Stakeholder Engagement

• Support stakeholder engagement strategies and community relations

• Advise on grievance mechanisms, RAP/LRP processes, and social risk mitigation

Recruitment & Technical Support

• Work closely with internal teams to define ESG/HSEC role requirements

• Support technical screening and validation of candidates

• Contribute ESG insights to support client needs and business development

Reporting & Governance

• Prepare ESG reports and documentation

• Track KPIs and support continuous improvement

• Assist with audits and due diligence processes

ESG Due Diligence & Risk Advisory

• Lead ESG due diligence for investments, acquisitions, and project financing

• Identify material environmental and social risks, liabilities, and compliance gaps

• Advise clients on risk mitigation strategies aligned with lender expectations

• Support audits, transaction processes, and independent reviews

Requirements

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Environmental Science, Social Sciences, Sustainability, or related discipline

• 10+ years of experience in ESG / Environmental & Social roles, with significant exposure in Africa

• Strong experience with ESIA processes and ESMP implementation

• Proven project management experience

• Knowledge of IFC Performance Standards and international ESG frameworks

• Experience in mining, energy, or infrastructure sectors

• Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills

• Fluency in English required; French strongly preferred

Key Competencies

• Leadership and coordination

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

• Excellent organization and reporting abilities

• Ability to work across multiple projects and cultures

Nice to Have

• Experience in Africa

• Experience with RAP/LRP implementation

• Familiarity with ESG reporting frameworks (e.g., GRI)

Originally posted on Himalayas