Environmental and Social (E&S) Manager-Yanbu

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 responsibilities - Ensure compliance with Saudi environmental regulations and applicable international lender standards, including IFC Performance Standards, EBRD requirements, and Equator Principles expectations - Implement, 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 applicable - Monitor environmental impacts (air, water, waste, noise, biodiversity) - Oversee contractor E&S performance (EPC and O&M) - Conduct site inspections, audits, and walkovers - Stop non‑compliant or unsafe activities and ensure corrective actions - Lead stakeholder engagement activities with local communities, authorities, contractors, and project stakeholders in accordance with the project Stakeholder Engagement Plan - Operate and manage the grievance mechanism (communities & workers) - Prepare clear and timely E&S reports for lenders, Saudi regulators, project leadership, and external audits - Advise project leadership on E&S risks and improvements - Deliver E&S training and awareness to staff and contractors What are we looking for? - Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Sustainability, Social Sciences, or related field - 10+ years experience in environmental & social management - 4+ years site‑based experience on energy, infrastructure, or construction projects - Strong knowledge of: IFC Performance Standards IFC Performance Standards, EBRD requirements, Equator Principles, and international lender E&S reporting expectations Saudi environmental, labor, occupational health and safety, permitting, and social compliance requirements - Experience implementing and managing Environmental & Social Management Systems (ESMS) - Proven experience working with international lenders and audits - Ability to manage contractors (EPC/O&M) and site compliance - Experience with stakeholder engagement and grievance mechanisms - Strong reporting, documentation, and risk‑management skills - Fluent English is required; Arabic language capability is highly desirable for engagement with Saudi authorities, contractors, and local stakeholders - Ability to communicate effectively with regulators, communities, and senior management