Consultant – Research on Chinese Environmental, Social, and Governance Practices

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Democratic Republic of the Congo.

📋 Description

• Perform research on the ESG management practices of Chinese copper and cobalt mining and processing firms operating in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

• Evaluate the engagement models between Chinese stakeholders and international ESG standard-setting organizations.

• Conduct desk-based research and review policy documents, academic literature, and industry reports.

• Engage in inception discussions with the project team.

• Develop a comprehensive chapter outline for approval.

• Conduct stakeholder interviews as necessary with government agencies, industry associations, standards-setting bodies, mining companies, civil society, and affected local communities.

• Collect, document, anonymize, and aggregate primary data as needed.

• Prepare an inception note detailing methodology, research approach, and chapter structure.

• Draft a chapter of approximately 3,000 words with complete citations and references.

• Provide a comparative analysis of ESG practices over time and among major mining companies and mineral processors in the DRC.

• Analyze the scope, operationalization, limitations, and potential of engagement arrangements between Chinese and international ESG standards.

• Develop recommendations for enhancing the ESG practices of Chinese copper and cobalt mining and processing companies in the DRC.

• Revise the chapter based on feedback from reviewers.

• Participate in review meetings as necessary.

• Deliver an annotated chapter outline, a summary report of stakeholder interviews, the first draft, and the final revised draft.

⛳️ Requirements

• A master’s degree in law, social sciences, public policy, environmental studies, development studies, or a relevant interdisciplinary program or field; candidates without a master’s degree may apply with equivalent experience.

• Minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in mining governance, mining policy, ESG management, sustainable development, or related fields, with a proven focus on China and Chinese companies.

• Proven experience in contributing to or independently delivering research, analysis, and policy recommendations related to mining and sustainable development.

• Demonstrated experience in conducting multistakeholder consultations as part of policy research.

• Experience working with and having access to Chinese mining companies and/or Chinese ESG standards-setting bodies is desirable.

• Strong analytical and writing capabilities.

• Proficiency in qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis.

• In-depth knowledge and professional experience with China’s legal and regulatory ESG framework concerning the mining and mineral processing industries.

• Familiarity with international ESG standards-setting bodies and their implementation processes.

• Knowledge of sustainable development, policy theory, and current climate and energy policy issues is highly desirable; a willingness and ability to learn in these areas are essential.

• Computer literacy, including proficiency in Microsoft Office/Teams and web-based communications and collaboration tools.

• Capability to work on shared documents within Microsoft 365 environments.

• Fluency in English and Chinese (required).

• Knowledge of French is an advantage (desired).

• Ability to submit applications in English.

• IISD will not be applying for residency or work permits on behalf of the applicant.

🏝️ Benefits

• Remote work arrangement.

• Potential travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).