Environmental & Social Specialist

Leap29 have a new job opportunity available on behalf of a renewable energy IPP with a global focus. The position which we are seeking to fill is for an Environmental & Social Specialist to be involved on a portfolio of projects across all Solar, Wind, and BESS technologies in Europe & Africa.

This job position will be located in Paris, France and cover the European perimeter.

The right candidate will collaborate with local teams to address environmental and social issues in early project stages, ensuring compliance with E&S requirements during financing. Responsibilities include developing and implementing assessments and plans, as well as providing staff training for enhanced management skills.

Collaborating closely with Country Managers, the role requires understanding project specifics, community dynamics, regulatory context, and business benefits related to environmental and social performance. Practical experience, commitment to community engagement, strong communication, and strategic thinking are essential.

Demonstrated expertise in managing environmental and social issues, effective stakeholder engagement, and clear communication with consultants, officials, community representatives, and lenders is a must, along with the ability to convey analyses efficiently to Country Managers and their teams.

Responsibilities:

• Implement the company’s Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS).
• Develop and implement project-specific Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), ESMS, and Resettlement Action Plans (RAP).
• Appoint and train Community Liaison Officers (CLOs) and implement Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM).
• Train local teams in lender’s E&S requirements (Equator Principles, IFC PS, EBRD PR, etc.).
• Coordinate with construction, HSE teams, and contractors for E&S requirements during the project lifecycle.

Requirements:

• Master’s degree in Environmental Management, Science, or Social Science.
• Minimum 5 years of proven E&S Manager or Officer experience.
• Experience in conducting ESIAs for renewable energy projects.
• Experience in implementing resettlement activities.
• Experience in developing or implementing ESMS at the project or corporate level.
• Experience reconciling business and community needs.
• Experience in multicultural community engagement.
• Experience with DFI-funded projects.
• Experience in training and coaching local teams.
• Knowledge of broader environmental and social management trends.
• Knowledge of the renewable energy sector in Europe and Africa.
• Fluent in English; knowledge of other languages is a plus.

Key Skills:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to participatory approaches.
• Demonstrable report writing ability.
• Understanding/knowledge of community cultures, customs, and practices.
• Group facilitation and coaching skills.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Strong personal and professional integrity.

If the opportunity to be a part of a highly skilled, international team is of interest to you, please apply directly through the link or contact Georgia Sumnall: gsumnall@leap29.com