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SUSTAINABILITY, ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL RISK SPECIALIST (CEMAC CLUSTER)

--Douala, Cameroon--





JOB TITLE : SUSTAINABILITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL RISK SPECIALIST (CEMAC)    



JOB PURPOSE

The Sustainability and Environmental and Social Risk Specialist plays a critical role in supporting Ecobank’s sustainability objectives within its CEMAC subsidiaries, by managing environmental and social (E&S) risks, ensuring compliance with international and regional standards, and integrating ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) principles into business operations. This position contributes to the bank’s efforts to foster sustainable development across its regions while protecting its reputation as a responsible financial institution.


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Sustainability Strategy Implementation:

  • Assist in implementing Ecobank's sustainability strategy to align business operations with sustainability objectives.
  • Contribute to setting measurable ESG goals and monitoring their progress.

2. Environmental and Social Risk Management:

  • Identify, assess, and mitigate E&S risks in lending portfolios and bank operations.
  • Provide expert guidance on sustainability and E&S risk issues to Corporate and Investment Banking (CIB) and Commercial Banking (CMB).

3. Compliance and Due Diligence:

  • Ensure adherence to key standards such as the Equator Principles, IFC Performance Standards, and local regulations.
  • Conduct Environmental and Social Due Diligence (ESDD) and support portfolio companies in improving their E&S management systems.

4. Policy Development and Integration:

  • Develop, implement, and integrate E&S risk management policies into credit and operational processes.
  • Provide advice on embedding E&S clauses in legal agreements and action plans.

5. Stakeholder Engagement:

  • Act as an ambassador for Ecobank’s sustainability agenda, building relationships with internal teams and external stakeholders, including regulators, investors, and community groups.

6. Monitoring and Reporting:

  • Monitor client compliance with E&S requirements and prepare regular E&S reports for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Contribute to climate and sustainability initiatives and case studies.

7. Training and Awareness:

  • Provide training on E&S credit risks and sustainability strategies to internal teams.
  • Develop tools and processes to enhance E&S risk management practices.


JOB CONTEXT


This role operates within Ecobank’s commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility. The Specialist will navigate a complex and dynamic regulatory environment while collaborating with cross-functional teams, including credit, legal, risk, and investment departments.


The position requires strong cultural sensitivity and adaptability to address the unique challenges and opportunities of the CEMAC region. By balancing business goals with ethical and sustainability commitments, the Specialist contributes to sustainable economic development and social well-being in Africa.


KEY SUCCESS METRICS


  • Achievement of ESG Goals: Progress towards defined environmental, social, and governance targets, such as reducing carbon emissions or enhancing diversity and inclusion.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Full adherence to regional and international E&S standards with no compliance violations.
  • Risk Mitigation Effectiveness: Reduction in E&S risk incidents and improved portfolio ratings.
  • Stakeholder Satisfaction: Positive feedback from stakeholders, including clients, regulators, and investors.
  • Timely Reporting: Submission of accurate and comprehensive ESG reports aligned with standards like GRI or SASB.


SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS


  • Educational Background: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, Business Administration, or a related field. Certifications in ESG or sustainability are highly desirable.
  • Professional Experience: At least 5 years of relevant experience in sustainability, ESG, or E&S risk management, ideally within financial services or consulting.
  • Technical Expertise: 

​ ​Proficiency in ESG frameworks and reporting standards (GRI, SASB, TCFD )  

​ ​ Familiarity with IFC Performance Standards and World Bank EHS Guidelines 

​ ​Strong knowledge of African environmental regulations, particularly in the CEMAC region.

  • Competencies:

​ ​Analytical and problem-solving skills to assess complex E&S risks.

​ ​​Strong project management capabilities, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.

​ ​Excellent verbal and written communication skills to engage with diverse stakeholders.

​ ​Proficiency in English is required; French or other local languages is an advantage.


COMPETENCIES AND BEHAVIORS


  • Strategic Thinking: Ability to align long-term sustainability goals with Ecobank’s business objectives.
  • Leadership and Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills to inspire teams and work effectively across functions.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Awareness of the cultural contexts within the CEMAC region and the ability to adapt sustainability initiatives to local needs.
  • Innovation and Improvement: Proactively identify and implement new practices and technologies to enhance Ecobank’s sustainability efforts.
  • Integrity and Ethical Conduct: Uphold Ecobank’s values through transparency and accountability in all actions.


Deadline for application : January 30th, 2025

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