Principal, Problem Solving (London, GB) @ EBRD

Requisition ID 37204 Office Country United Kingdom Office City London Division Indep.

Project Accountability Mechanism Contract Type Regular Contract Length Posting End Date 15/11/2026 Purpose of Job The Independent Project Accountability Mechanism (IPAM) is the EBRD’s Accountability Mechanism. IPAM independently reviews environmental, social and public disclosure-related complaints raised by project-affected people and civil society organisations concerning Bank projects. IPAM is an independent function, governed outside the Bank’s investment operations, reporting directly to the EBRD Board of Directors via the Audit and Risk Committee.

The Project Accountability Policy (PAP) (2019) establishes the mandate, structure and operation of IPAM and regulates the way cases are processed. The Problem-Solving function, one of the two functions through which IPAM addresses concerns, supports dialogue between Requesters and Clients to resolve the environmental, social and public disclosure issues underlying a Request, without attributing blame or fault. IPAM engages with Project-affected People, Clients, and other stakeholders as a neutral third party, to help find mutually satisfactory resolutions through flexible, consensus-based problem-solving approaches Within this context, the Principal Problem Solving, reporting directly to the Associate Director Intake and Problem Solving, is responsible for implementing the Policy provisions for cases in the Problem Solving function in line with IPAM standards and best practices.

As part of a multidisciplinary, collaborative working environment, the Principal shall contribute to the overall IPAM goals and strategy, supporting the Associate Director, providing inputs to the institutional learning and outreach efforts, as well as development and preparation of internal administrative procedures. Accountabilities & Responsibilities Under limited direction of the Associate Director, the Principal, Problem Solving is IPAM’s main dispute resolution expert and responsible for:

• Applying principles, approaches, methods, tools, and general provisions of the Project Accountability Policy, for complex Assessment and Problem Solving cases.
• Leading complex assessment processes and Problem Solving initiatives which include, among others, independently researching the context of the requests; mapping stakeholders and identifying and analysing key issues to be addressed, such as risks of reprisals to requesters.
• Providing expert level contributions to Project analysis and other case-related documents.
• Leading the design of robust Problem Solving processes, defining consensus building approaches, promoting scenario building, developing case-specific terms of reference, resolution options, ground rules and drafting Problem Solving Agreements.
• Conducting efficient, timely and effective project management of cases from start to finish independently, managing case progress, schedules, budgets and stakeholder engagement
• Developing targeted strategies to build rapport, engage with and maintain regular communication with EBRD Management, Clients, public officials, civil society representative and complainants.
• Leading facilitation, dialogue, technical briefings, conversations with experts, and any other process-related events, as needed.
• Identifying, hiring and managing (both technically and contractually) external facilitators and dispute resolution experts.
• Contributing to organization and logistical aspects of field missions, as well as any other process-related activities.
• Monitoring any geo-political and project landscape during assessment, dialogue or monitoring stages.
• Ensuring proper handling of information in accordance with both the PAP and the Access to Information Policy.
• Ensuring consistent use of Bank systems and regularly updating the case registry with relevant information
• Independently drafting robust, high-quality reports (e.g., Assessment Reports, Terms of Reference, Problem Solving Reports, Monitoring Reports, Back to Office Reports and others as needed) which can withstand high levels of internal and external scrutiny.
• Independently monitoring the implementation commitments established through Project Accountability Policy case processes, engaging with all parties to determine when all actions have been satisfactorily implemented.
• Engaging with other IPAM team members and provide expert inputs for Board materials, institutional learning, and outreach. Contributing to the ongoing development of professional practices within IPAM.
• Performing other assignments or tasks as delegated.

Knowledge, Skills, Experience & Qualifications

• A graduate degree in a relevant field such as Conflict Resolution, Law, Human Rights, International Development, or equivalent relevant professional experience
• Solid knowledge and relevant international work experience in development finance
• Proven, in-depth experience in designing, managing and monitoring complex conflict resolution initiatives and specialised expertise in dispute resolution methods in development finance projects
• Experience in an IFI setting is desirable
• Experience working with, or a detailed knowledge of, social and environmental standards and/or independent accountability mechanisms like IPAM is desirable
• Proven ability to act independently and resourcefully in responding to work demands, under limited supervision, prioritizing tasks and delivering to mandated deadlines and expected outputs
• Ability to interact effectively and constructively with diverse and often polarised stakeholders, including Bank staff, clients and international civil society, often in context of grievance and/or conflict
• Ability to author high quality English-language reports, with the gravitas to present to all levels of Bank staff/officials
• High degree of professionalism, integrity and neutrality
• Proven ability to analyse complex and political scenarios, to interpret complex policies, and determine their application to specific cases
• Fluency in English, both written and verbal, with excellent writing skills are essential. Fluency in language of EBRD country of operations (e.g French, Russian, Arabic) is desirable
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multicultural and diverse team
• Willingness to travel regularly required
• Experience working in Bank’s countries of operation is desirable What is it like to work at the EBRD? / About EBRD

Our agile and innovative approach is what makes life at the EBRD a unique experience! You will be part of a pioneering and diverse international organisation, and use your talents to make a real difference to people's lives and help shape the future of the regions we invest in. At EBRD, our Values – Inclusiveness, Innovation, Trust, and Responsibility – are at the heart of how we work. We bring these to life through our Workplace Behaviours: listening well and speaking up, collaborating smartly, acting decisively with full commitment, and simplifying to amplify our impact.

These principles shape our culture and define our success. We seek individuals who not only share these values but are also committed to embedding them in their daily work, fostering a positive and high-performing environment. The EBRD environment provides you with: Varied, stimulating and engaging work that gives you an opportunity to interact with a wide range of experts in the financial, political, public and private sectors across the regions we invest in. A working culture that embraces inclusion and celebrates diversity.

Our workforce reflects a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, bringing fresh ideas, energy, and innovation and enhancing our ability to serve our clients, shareholders, and counterparties effectively. A hybrid workplace that offers flexibility to teams and individuals; that is based on trust, flexibility and connectedness. An environment that places sustainability, equality and digital transformation at the heart of what we do. A workplace that prioritises employee wellbeing and provides a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits.

Diversity is one of the Bank’s core values which are at the heart of everything it does. As such, the EBRD seeks to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities and works in an inclusive environment. The EBRD encourages all qualified candidates who are nationals of the EBRD member countries to apply regardless of their racial, ethnic, religious and cultural background, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, socio-economic background or disability. Please note, that due to the high volume of applications received, we regret to inform you that we are unable to provide detailed feedback to candidates who have not been shortlisted (for further consideration).