Head of ESG at Equity Bank Kenya

Description

Equity Bank is one of the region’s leading banks whose purpose is to transform the lives and livelihoods of the people of Africa socially and economically by availing them modern and inclusive financial services that maximize their opportunities. With a strong footprint in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Sudan and DRC Congo, Equity Bank is now home to over 12 million customers - the largest customer base in Africa. Currently the Bank is seeking additional talent to serve in the role outlined below.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• In line with the Group ESG Strategy, develop a Kenya focused ESG strategy to identify and manage the key ESG-related risks & opportunities.
• Accountable for overall ESG Risk Management including ownership and implementation of an effective environmental and social management system (ESMS).
• Manage the ESG Governance and Compliance requirements.
• Lead the Business to deliver effective Environmental and Social Risk appraisals (both desk-top and site based) as part of the credit process and develop practical risk management plans, as appropriate, to be included as part of the facility agreements.
• Run the assurance programme and follow-up to ensure effective implementation of the E&S Management Policy and Procedures.
• Work in close partnership with the wider Business and the Equity Foundation to develop ESG opportunities and impact related products and services.
• Build Environmental and Social awareness among Bank’s clients.
• Champion and build ESG capacity across all the relevant business departments to ensure engagement and improved understanding of ESG across the organization.
• Deliver an effective ESG training programme to the organization across all levels.
• Deliver to the internal and external (regulatory and/or contractual) reporting requirements.
• Introduce best practices to support delivery of the organisation’s strategy.
• Lead and manage the ESG team.
• Generate insights and thought leadership materials on ESG topics and trends
• Serve as subject matter expert on ESG, including industry trends, research, regulations, and ESG data gathering, analysis, monitoring, and reporting.
• Support the Business and Group Team as required to deliver on the organization and the overall Group’s strategy.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Degree in ESG related discipline – Environmental Sciences, Sustainable Development, Sociology, Community Development, Geology, Engineering
• Knowledge of local environmental, sustainability, employment, health and safety legislations and regulations
• Strong knowledge of and practical experience in social, environmental sustainability and governance issues across diverse sectors
• Ability to propose realistic, value-adding and practical risk management plans
• Able to collaborate cross-functionally
• Strong analytical and communication skills
• Excellent organizational skills
• Good working knowledge of IFC Performance Standards, World Bank Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) guidelines, Equator Principles, GRI, TCFD, Other International Sustainability Standards
• Over 7 years’ experience in ESG related role 
• Previous experience in banking desirable