Senior Social Development Specialist

Shape a future with purpose at Arup in Istanbul & Ankara

Arup’s purpose, shared values and collaborative approach has set us apart for over 75 years, guiding how we shape a better world. 

The Opportunity

We are independent firm of designers, planners, engineers, consultants, sustainability professionals and technical specialists offering a broad range of professional services. Through our work, we make a positive difference in the world focusing on contributing to the sustainable development goals.

This is an opportunity for a Senior Social Development Specialist, experienced in working for International Financial Institutions (IFIs), to join our global team of Lenders Environmental and Social Advisory specialists and support our continued growth and development.

Our multi-national team comprises specialists in environmental and social impact and risk management experienced in delivering Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA), Environmental and Social Due Diligence (ESDD), Environmental and Social Action Plan (ESAP), Independent Environmental and Social Monitoring and related services to IFIs, Export Credit Agencies and Equator Principle lenders. We have numerous ongoing high-profile assignments in Türkiye, Eastern Europe, Central and Western Asia and Africa Region and have strong growth aspirations.

As a Senior Social Development Specialist at Arup, you will:

• Lead, manage and deliver social impact and risk management assignments in line with Lenders’ standards including social impact assessment, social due diligence and gap analyses, resettlement and livelihood restoration planning, labour audits, human rights risk assessments, gender assessments and action plans, stakeholder engagement planning, indigenous people’s plans, social monitoring and associated services related to financing of projects etc.
• Manage technical input and coordination of ESDD, Gap Analyses, ESIA, E&S monitoring and associated assignments.
• Support the expansion of E&S diligence and ESIA services in Türkiye, Central and Western Asia and with Turkish developers globally, including the recruitment of relevant personnel and collaborators to deliver these services where relevant.
• Lead, manage and prepare input into tenders, proposals and cost estimates for projects with IFIs and lenders or for expanding the scope of existing projects. This will include understanding and aligning with Arup processes for assessing win probability, cultural and strategic fit, risk tolerance and management of commercial terms within the bidding process.
• Establish and maintain relationships with external clients, colleagues within Arup and con-client government and regulatory agencies to continue to strengthen the team’s credibility in the market.
• Travel to other offices to support business development and project delivery, for example to meet with potential clients to identify opportunities, to add value to their project/business, which often takes place outside of formal proposal process.
• Actively contribute your skill and experience to our Global Lenders E&S Advisory skills network and team.

Does this role inspire you?

We’re looking for someone who is passionate about working in close collaboration with our Lenders E&S Advisory personnel in Europe, United Kingdom, Middle East and Africa. We also value:

• A degree or post graduate degree in a human geography, social, anthropological or international development related science,
• At least 10 years of professional experience working in social impact management, vulnerability, indigenous and human rights, land acquisition and involuntary resettlement, and gender for IFI-aligned projects,
• Practical knowledge and experience of lending institutions environmental and social policies and standards, including those of the International Finance Corporation, World Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, Equator Principles, OECD Common Approaches etc.
• Excellent reporting and verbal communication skills in both Turkish and English,
• Ability to travel regularly on short trips nationally or overseas,
• Team player – Demonstrated ability to manage, work in and motivate multi-disciplinary teams,
• Ability to communicate effectively to a wide range of audiences ranging from vulnerable project-affected people to internationally based bankers, key client contracts, subconsultants and project teams,
• Proven ability to plan and manage self and others deliver multiple work streams within medium to large scale projects, including checking the work produced by others,
• Passion for delivering a sustainable future and continual improvement of both self and the team,
• Ability to work calmly under pressure to meet deadlines,
• Demonstrable desire for continual improvement of both self and the team,

In addition, candidates with the following will have a distinct advantage:

• Prior experience in contributing social sections to E&S Due Diligence and Monitoring Reports,
• Experience in working on major transport, renewable energy, power and/or water infrastructure projects,
• Experience in working with vulnerable and/or project-affected communities in Türkiye,
• Recognized professional profile (e.g. chartership) or demonstrable continued applied professional development and contribution to advancing knowledge in a relevant discipline.

Why Arup?

At Arup, we believe in rewarding our members for their contributions to our shared success. As a trust-owned company, we have the freedom to pursue meaningful work that aligns with our purpose and values. We also offer a unique profit share program, allowing our members to share in the results of our collective efforts.

Benefits that work for you:

• Professional Growth & Development: Benefit from continuous learning opportunities, training programs, and mentorship to enhance your skills and advance your career at Arup.
• Global Opportunities: Collaborate with colleagues worldwide and explore potential short-term or long-term assignments at other Arup offices and project locations.
• Financial Well-being & Ownership: Receive a competitive salary and benefits package and share in Arup’s success through our global profit-sharing programme.

At Arup, you belong to an extraordinary collective where individuality is encouraged. Our strength comes from how we respect, share, and connect our diverse experiences, perspectives, and ideas. You’ll have the opportunity to do socially useful work that has meaning – to Arup, to your career, and to the clients and communities we serve.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and are committed to building a workplace that reflects the rich diversity of the world around us. We actively promote a culture of inclusion where everyone feels welcome, respected, and valued.

We welcome applications from talented individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of age (within legal limits), gender identity or expression, disability, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. We are committed to making our recruitment process and workplaces accessible. If you need any assistance or adjustments, please visit our Candidate Support page for contact information and assistance. We’re happy to help.

Do you want to join us in shaping a better world?

Apply using the “Apply for Job” button above

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