Global Social Development & ESG Advisory Lead

WSP in the UK & Ireland; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

WSP's International ESG Advisory team seeks an experienced International Social Development Specialist to support and grow our lender advisory and due diligence business globally. The role focuses on land acquisition, resettlement, stakeholder engagement and social impact assessment across infrastructure, energy, mining and urban development projects.

The ideal candidate will lead technical delivery, mentor junior staff, and develop social risk management methodologies.

Qualifications

• Degree in social sciences, development studies, anthropology, sociology, geography, environmental management or related discipline.
• Master’s degree preferred.
• Significant professional experience in social sustainability, social performance, ESG advisory or international development.
• Extensive experience delivering sustainable finance projects across international markets.

Responsibilities

• Lead major international Environmental and Social Due Diligence (ESDD), Social Impact Assessment (SIA) and related assessments.
• Direct and manage social risks and impacts across project development, construction and operation.
• Provide expert advice on land acquisition, involuntary resettlement, livelihood restoration and stakeholder engagement.
• Develop and review Social Management Plans, RAPs, LRPs, Labour Management Plans and engagement strategies.
• Define corrective action plans, monitoring measures and verification approaches to meet lender requirements and best practices.
• Support lenders and developers through project financing, including pre-financial close due diligence, construction monitoring and ESG reviews.
• Provide strategic advice on social performance, responsible sourcing, labour rights and due diligence.

Skills

Social Impact Assessment

ESDD

Land Acquisition

Resettlement

Livelihood Restoration

Stakeholder Engagement

Human Rights

Gender Equality

Social Inclusion

ESG Advisory

Sustainable Finance Advisory

Education

Degree in social sciences

Master’s degree preferred

Job description

WSP's International ESG Advisory team seeks an experienced International Social Development Specialist to support and grow our lender advisory and due diligence business globally. The role focuses on land acquisition, resettlement, stakeholder engagement and social impact assessment across infrastructure, energy, mining and urban development projects.

The ideal candidate will lead technical delivery, mentor junior staff, and develop social risk management methodologies.