Senior Environmental and Social Associate at Anzana Electric Group (formerly Virunga Power)

About the job
Date: June 2024
Job Title: Senior Environmental and Social Associate
Location: East or Southern Africa with occasional travel to project sites
Anzana Electric Group (formerly Virunga Power) is seeking for a highly analytical, meticulous and hands-on Senior Environmental and Social Associate willing to work on all its operations.
About Anzana Electric Group
Anzana was formed in 2011 as a developer, investor, and operator of renewable power projects and rural distribution grids. Our focus is on constructing and operating utility-scale projects across East and Southern Africa and beyond with a goal of bringing high-quality, low-cost power to rural communities that currently lack reliable access to modern energy.
About the Role
We are actively searching for a dynamic and experienced Senior Environmental & Social Associate to join our team. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in supporting the Health, Safety, Environmental, and Social Department (HSES) at Virunga Power. Their responsibilities include implementing the Environmental and Social Management Systems (ESMS) and Health and Safety Management Systems in alignment with industry-leading standards and responsible care principles. The Senior Environmental and Social Associate will report directly to Anzana’s HSES Manager and oversee the work of Environmental and Social Associate(s).
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Work closely with all Virunga Power project teams to support the implementation of environmental and social requirements. This includes fostering a collaborative approach that considers diverse perspectives and expertise.
- Support the HSES data collection and analysis for quality control and performance internal and external reporting.
- Support the management of external service providers conducting ESIAs, land acquisition studies (LALRP, RAP, etc.), and other studies and audits.
- Preparation of internal technical Environmental and Social reports. These reports contribute to informed decision-making within the organization.
- Support all reporting on impact and sustainability matters with internal and external stakeholders.
- Support the implementation of environmental and social training programs and management of the company HSES training plan to promote a culture of environmental stewardship and social responsibility among employees.
- Coach and guide E&S Associates and advise project teams on all aspects of HSES , incorporating international best practice standards.
- Keep abreast of emerging trends, technologies, and regulations in the field of environmental and social sustainability, providing senior management with insights on potential opportunities and risks.
Minimum Requirements
- Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in environmental management, social sciences, or a related field.
- Work Experience: Minimum of 8 years of experience in environmental and social management especially consultancy work and preferably within the energy sector or related industries.
- Communication: Must demonstrate effective communication, interpersonal skills and professionalism at all levels. Excellent communication skills in English (both written and verbal), with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, considering their unique perspectives. French capabilities a plus
- Professional certifications: Certifications in the HSES field (e.g. NEBOSH, Environmental Professional, Social Impact Assessment Practitioner) are an advantage.
- Reports: Proficiency in preparing reports, documentation, and compliance records (HSES KPIs).
- Computer Skills: Experience with word processing computer programs, e-mail systems, internet search engines, and excellent computer literacy is required.
- Other Desired Skills
- Understanding of environmental regulations, international standards (e.g., ISO 14001/45001, IFC Performance Standards), and best practices in sustainability.
- Familiarity with best practices in sustainability.
- Detail-oriented and meticulous; attention to detail and strong observation ability.
- Conflict resolution skills, promoting respectful dialogue and collaboration.
Benefits
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience and expertise.
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage and retirement benefits.
- Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
If you are passionate about making a positive impact on the environment and society while contributing to the success of a leading energy company, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Please submit your resume and cover letter in English outlining your relevant experience and qualifications. We look forward to hearing from you!
Note: We strongly encourage female candidates to apply.
Application Instructions:
Please send your resume and cover letter to Bradley.Wilson@virungapower.com indicating “Senior Environmental & Social Associate Application” in the subject line. Deadline for applications is 24th June 2024.
Note: Only Short-listed Candidates will be contacted