Job description
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
Who can apply
The source lists worldwide eligibility. Accepted UTC offsets: UTC-11, UTC-10, UTC-9.5, UTC-9, UTC-8, UTC-7, UTC-6, UTC-5, UTC-4, UTC-3.5, UTC-3, UTC-2, UTC-1, UTC+0, UTC+1, UTC+2, UTC+3, UTC+3.5, UTC+4, UTC+4.5, UTC+5, UTC+5.5, UTC+5.75, UTC+6, UTC+6.5, UTC+7, UTC+8, UTC+8.75, UTC+9, UTC+9.5, UTC+10, UTC+10.5, UTC+11, UTC+12, UTC+12.75, UTC+13, UTC+14. Review the full description for employer-specific work authorization, residency and schedule requirements.