Social Performance Manager

EDF Renewable Energy is seeking a Social Performance Manager in Gqeberha, South Africa, responsible for community development programs and stakeholder engagement. The role involves ensuring compliance with economic development obligations, managing community investment strategies, and overseeing impact assessments. Candidates should have a degree in a related field and 5–7 years of experience in social performance, particularly in renewable energy. Regular travel to project sites is required.
About EDF Renewables:

EDF Renewables South Africa is a fully integrated independent power producer (IPP) specializing in renewable energy. With over 3GW of wind, solar, and battery projects in development and operation, we are committed to socio-economic development, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable community impact as part of our renewable energy initiatives.

The Social Performance Manager will be responsible for defining, implementing, and reporting on all community development programs, ensuring that EDF Renewables’ projects deliver long-term, meaningful impact to local communities while remaining compliant with REIPPPP and IFC Performance Standards.
Position Overview:

We are looking for an experienced Social Performance Manager to lead community engagement, socio-economic development (SED/EnD) programs, and stakeholder management across EDF Renewables' operational and construction projects. Reporting to the Head of Social Performance, this role ensures that community risks are mitigated, relationships are strengthened, and programs drive sustainable economic transformation.
Key Responsibilities:
• Oversee the design, implementation, and monitoring of long-term community investment (SED/EnD) strategies.
• Ensure compliance with Economic Development Obligations (EDOs) under REIPPPP commitments.
• Develop and execute Stakeholder Engagement Plans (SEP), including community grievance mechanisms.
• Manage and track community development project funding and report to the IPP Office (IPPO) on a quarterly basis.
• Engage with local government, NGOs, community leaders, and project stakeholders.
• Oversee impact assessments, community needs analysis, and beneficiary monitoring.
• Manage implementing agents and third-party service providers for community development initiatives.
• Support local procurement, enterprise, and supplier development strategies in host communities.
• Ensure BBBEE and REIPPPP Economic Development reporting is completed accurately and timeously.
• Provide input into social sections of Project Environmental and Social Management Systems (ESMS).
• Collaborate with Anglo American Social Teams to develop and implement policies for Envusa Energy projects.
Qualifications & Experience:Required:
• Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Business Administration, Social Economics, or a related field.
• 5–7 years of experience in Social Performance or Economic Development, preferably in renewable energy.
• Strong understanding of IFC Performance Standards, REIPPPP, and social compliance frameworks.
• Financial and legal literacy for managing development funds and contracts.
• Excellent reporting, writing, and presentation skills.
• Willingness to travel regularly to project sites.
Advantageous:
• Experience in BBBEE audits and verification processes.
• Fluency in Xhosa or other local languages.
• Background in stakeholder relations and negotiation.
Why Join Us?

Be part of a company dedicated to empowering communities through renewable energy projects. If you are passionate about social impact, economic development, and stakeholder engagement, apply now and help drive meaningful change!

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