Consultant For Strengthening Environmental And Social Safeguards In The Enterprise Development Fund (EDF)

Organizational Context

IOM, a UN-related organization, leads in migration. This consultancy is within IOM Iraq's Enterprise Development Fund (EDF) project, which supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for economic recovery in conflict-affected areas. The role sits within the Peace and Recovery Division, under the Project Officer (Livelihoods), focusing on strengthening Environmental & Social Action Plans (ESAP) implementation across Iraq.

Job Purpose

The primary purpose of this consultancy is to significantly enhance and operationalize the Environmental & Social Action Plan (ESAP) component within IOM Iraq's Enterprise Development Fund (EDF). This critical role involves a comprehensive impact assessment of existing ESAP implementation, followed by the refinement of technical processes and the development of robust, sector-specific minimum standards and practical tools. A core contribution will be the substantial capacity building of both EDF Technical and Operational Teams. The consultant will ensure that ESAP is implemented in a feasible, practical, and highly effective manner, strictly aligned with Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF) guidelines and relevant Iraqi legislation across both the Kurdistan Region of Iraq and Federal Iraq. This work is instrumental in mitigating environmental and social risks, improving staff safety and wellbeing within EDF-funded SMEs, and ultimately fostering responsible economic recovery and sustainable job creation.

Responsibilities

The consultant will undertake a three-phase assignment. Phase 1 involves a Desk Review and ESAP Impact Assessment, including a comprehensive review of existing ESAP processes, identification of gaps, and evaluation of past ESAP plan quality. This phase also requires field visits to EDF-supported businesses to assess ESAP implementation and effectiveness, collecting qualitative and quantitative data, culminating in an ESAP Impact Assessment Report with actionable recommendations. Phase 2 focuses on the Development of ESAP Systems, Standards, and Tools. Based on assessment findings, the consultant will develop sector-specific minimum standards for ESAP plans, ensuring alignment with ESMF guidelines and Iraqi legislation. This includes creating clear guidance for EDF Technical Teams, integrating standards into Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and designing monitoring tools for compliance and effectiveness, with validation from IOM staff. Phase 3 is dedicated to Capacity Building, designing and delivering a Training of Trainers (ToT) program for the EDF Technical Team to enhance risk identification, ESAP measure application, and compliance monitoring. Additionally, operational field teams will be trained on updated SOPs and guidelines, with accompanying support and feedback to ensure quality implementation.

Work Experience

Candidates must have prior experience working with Environmental & Social Management Frameworks (ESMF) in a humanitarian context. Familiarity with the Iraq context and direct work experience in Iraq are highly desirable. Experience with livelihoods, SME development, or economic recovery programming is also beneficial.

Skills

Required skills include strong writing and research design capabilities, with the ability to clearly communicate results to diverse audiences. Fluency in English is essential. Working proficiency in Arabic and/or Kurdish is highly desirable.

Explore related opportunities