Social Team Lead at RUZIZI III Energy Limited: (Deadline: 27 October 2025)
Social Team Lead at RUZIZI III Energy Limited: (Deadline: 27 October 2025)
Position: Social Team Lead
Organization: RUZIZI III Energy Limited (REL)
Location: Kigali, Rwanda (with relocation to the Project site during construction)
Contract Duration: 2 Years (renewable)
Start Date: Q4 2025
About the Project
Ruzizi III Energy Limited (REL) is developing the 206 MW Ruzizi III Regional Hydropower Project on the Ruzizi River — a key cross-border project involving Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Rwanda. This flagship Public-Private Partnership (PPP) is jointly developed by the Contracting States on the public side and Industrial Promotion Services (IPS) and TotalEnergies on the private side.
The Project is entering its construction phase in 2026 and aims to provide sustainable, reliable, and affordable electricity to the Great Lakes region.
More information: www.ruzizi3.com
Job Purpose
The Social Team Lead will provide leadership to REL’s social operations, ensuring that all social programs and compliance standards are effectively implemented during project development and construction. The role focuses on resettlement, community engagement, grievance management, social safeguards, and stakeholder relations.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Management
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Lead, develop, and manage the Social Team and external consultants.
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Oversee annual social budgets and ensure efficient resource use.
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Supervise social programs including resettlement, compensation, livelihood restoration, gender-based violence prevention, and grievance redress mechanisms.
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Monitor the EPC Contractor and consultants for compliance with social standards.
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Prepare and submit internal and external reports on social activities.
Compliance & Risk Management
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Ensure preparation and delivery of all Environmental & Social (E&S) documents (ESIA, RAP, SEP, etc.) for approval by relevant authorities and lenders.
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Develop and implement social management plans including:
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Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP)
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Grievance Mechanism
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Resettlement Action Plan (RAP)
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Livelihood Restoration Plan (LRP)
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Influx Management Plan
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Historically Marginalized Peoples Development Plan (HMPDP)
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Chance Finds Procedure
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Conduct periodic social risk assessments and ensure compliance with local and international standards.
Land Acquisition & Community Engagement
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Lead and manage land acquisition and resettlement processes in line with RAP.
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Maintain effective stakeholder communication and ensure timely grievance redress.
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Build strong relationships with local authorities, community leaders, and affected households.
External Relations
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Represent REL on social and E&S matters with governments, lenders, partners, and local stakeholders.
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Maintain transparent communication to build trust and ensure stakeholder support.
Qualifications & Experience
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Education: Bachelor’s degree in Sociology, Anthropology, International Development, or a related discipline.
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Experience:
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Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in large infrastructure or hydropower projects.
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At least 5 years in a similar leadership position.
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Proven experience in resettlement, community engagement, grievance management, and RAP implementation.
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Strong background in projects funded by development banks and compliance with IFC Performance Standards or equivalent.
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Experience working with vulnerable or marginalized communities, including women and youth, is an added advantage.
Skills & Competencies
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Strong leadership and communication skills.
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Excellent stakeholder management and problem-solving ability.
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Analytical mindset with strong reporting and documentation skills.
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Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
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Fluency in English required; proficiency in French preferred.
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Knowledge of Kinyarwanda, Kirundi, and/or Swahili is an advantage.
Nationality
Priority will be given to qualified nationals of Burundi, DR Congo, or Rwanda.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send:
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A cover letter detailing relevant experience and competencies.
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A searchable PDF CV (in English)
Submit to: jobs@ruzizienergy.com
Deadline: 27 October 2025
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