Senior ESG Manager

To support ESG management and growth across Africa, our client is seeking to recruit a (Senior) Environmental and Social Governance (ESG) Manager. The role involves leading and managing ESG planning, project implementation, portfolio support, and technical advice while adding value to all team projects.

The successful candidate will work closely with Business Development, Engineering, Construction, and Operations teams to ensure that all projects are developed, constructed, and operated in accordance with HSESS policies and international environmental and social best practices.

The (Senior) ESG Manager will also collaborate with other members of the ESG team to help inform and implement the overarching corporate HSESS strategy.

Location: Cape Town, with international travel.

Key Responsibilities

For all new projects under development or acquisition:

1. Screen and provide early guidance and feedback on ESG issues associated with new prospects (reflecting HSESS policies).
2. Take ownership and support project developers on all ESG and climate matters, operating within a well-defined strategy and operational framework.
3. Conduct due diligence, coordinate Environmental and Social Impact Assessments, and define ESG and climate risk mitigation strategies for complex projects.
4. Undertake or source and manage advisors for ESG due diligence, impact assessments, and related activities.
5. Develop project-specific ESG requirements, monitoring programs, and training to ensure effective implementation of standards.
6. Act as the primary point of contact for lenders on ESG and climate aspects of project finance loans and ensure consistency in monitoring reports.

For all projects under construction:

1. Serve as the ESG and climate contact for the Engineering, Construction, and Legal teams throughout contract negotiations and construction activities.
2. Review and ensure the performance of construction staff, contractors, and site teams adheres to HSESS policies and standards.

For operational assets:

1. Support the ESG team's Group ESG Manager and operations' HSESS teams to ensure all assets comply with international best practices and HSESS policies.
2. Provide assistance to local operational teams for environmental or social-related matters.

Additional Responsibilities

1. Support the implementation and improvement of the Integrated HSESS Management System, including in-house standard plans, procedures, and technical guidelines.
2. Manage the annual ESG reporting cycle, ensuring oversight of processes and resources.
3. Maintain the in-house carbon footprint calculator and associated risk management tools, supporting the MD ESG and Climate in managing project-level climate risks.

Skills and Competencies

1. Passion for ESG topics with strong expertise in environmental and/or social subject matter.
2. In-depth knowledge of international ESG standards, particularly IFC Performance Standards and World Bank EHS Guidelines.
3. Strong understanding of Africa and its unique challenges.
4. Effective stakeholder management, able to build relationships at all levels.
5. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
6. Goal-focused, achievement-oriented, and a strong work ethic.
7. Flexible with a willingness to travel (up to 40 days per year, sometimes on short notice).

Experience, Knowledge & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

1. Advanced University Degree (B.Sc./M.Sc. or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, such as environmental/social sciences, power, energy, environmental engineering, or development studies/finance.
2. At least 7 years of relevant work experience (infrastructure, ESG, sustainability) within infrastructure development, E&S consulting, development finance, banking, or investment industries, with some experience in Africa.
3. Strong background in environmental or social disciplines is advantageous.
4. Ability to travel as required.

Technical Skills:

1. Familiarity with the application of IFC Performance Standards to investments is essential.
2. Knowledge of energy and infrastructure development, environmental and social issues, and challenges specific to Africa.
3. Experience in ESG-related topics within the power generation industry is a plus.
4. Understanding of international regulatory requirements and cultural differences.