Requirements
Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Sustainability, Social Sciences, or related field. 10+ years of experience in environmental & social management, with at least 4 years of site-based experience on energy, infrastructure, or construction projects. Strong knowledge of IFC Performance Standards, EBRD requirements, Equator Principles, Saudi environmental, labor, occupational health and safety, permitting, and social compliance requirements. Proven experience working with international lenders and audits, managing contractors, and stakeholder engagement. Fluent English is required; Arabic language capability is highly desirable.
Description
About the role:The Environmental and Social (E&S) Manager is responsible for ensuring that ACWA and assets in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia comply with applicable Saudi environmental, labor, occupational health and safety, and social requirements, as well as international lender standards. The role focuses on minimizing environmental impacts, managing social risks, maintaining regulatory compliance, and supporting sustainable project delivery in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030.This is a project-critical role, particularly because ACWA projects may be subject to the requirements of Saudi authorities, including (NCEC), the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA), the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (MHRSD), and other relevant regulators, in addition to international financing institutions such as IFC, EBRD, ECAs, and Equator Principles financial institutions.Duties and responsibilitiesEnsure compliance with Saudi environmental regulations and applicable international lender standards, including IFC Performance Standards, EBRD requirements, and Equator Principles expectationsImplement, maintain, and continuously improve the project Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS)Manage environmental permits, approvals, renewals, and regulatory submissions with relevant Saudi authorities, including NCEC and other competent agencies as applicableMonitor environmental impacts (air, water, waste, noise, biodiversity)Oversee contractor E&S performance (EPC and O&M)Conduct site inspections, audits, and walkoversStop non‑compliant or unsafe activities and ensure corrective actionsLead stakeholder engagement activities with local communities, authorities, contractors, and project stakeholders in accordance with the project Stakeholder Engagement PlanOperate and manage the grievance mechanism (communities & workers)Prepare clear and timely E&S reports for lenders, Saudi regulators, project leadership, and external auditsAdvise project leadership on E&S risks and improvementsDeliver E&S training and awareness to staff and contractorsWhat are we looking forBachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Sustainability, Social Sciences, or related field10+ years experience in environmental & social management4+ years site‑based experience on energy, infrastructure, or construction projectsStrong knowledge of:IFC Performance StandardsIFC Performance Standards, EBRD requirements, Equator Principles, and international lender E&S reporting expectationsSaudi environmental, labor, occupational health and safety, permitting, and social compliance requirementsExperience implementing and managing Environmental & Social Management Systems (ESMS)Proven experience working with international lenders and auditsAbility to manage contractors (EPC/O&M) and site complianceExperience with stakeholder engagement and grievance mechanismsStrong reporting, documentation, and risk‑management skillsFluent English is required; Arabic language capability is highly desirable for engagement with Saudi authorities, contractors, and local stakeholdersAbility to communicate effectively with regulators, communities, and senior management