Join Our Mission to Foster Prosperity in Asia

Are you ready to make a lasting impact on the future of Asia and be a catalyst for positive change? We are thrilled to offer a unique opportunity to become an important part of the prestigious Asian Development Bank (ADB). At ADB, our mission is simple yet powerful: to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region.

Organizational Setting and Reporting Relationship

The position of Senior Social Development Specialist (Civil Society & Participation) is assigned to the Fragility and Engagement Division (CCFE) within the Climate Change and Sustainable Development Department (CCSD). You will be based at our Headquarters in Manila, Philippines.

You will report to the Unit Head, NGOC.

Your Role

As a Senior Social Development Specialist (Civil Society & Participation), you will support and provide guidance to ADB operations to engage with civil society organizations (CSOs) effectively by building ADB’s institutional capacity to share knowledge and collaborate productively with civil society.

You will:

• Provide expertise in the area of ADB-Government-CSO cooperation in reducing poverty in Asia and the Pacific through the provision of direct and corporate support to ADB’s operations in working with CSOs.
• Contribute to the NGO and Civil Society Center (NGOC) work to strengthen ADB’s engagement with CSOs via collaboration with the internal ADB-wide CSO Cooperation Network, comprising of CSO Anchors in operations departments and key departments engaging with CSOs, in integrating CSO participation in ADB operations.
• Collaborate with NGOC’s Knowledge focused team member to manage knowledge products (both events and publications) in improving and deepening ADB-CSO cooperation which includes integration of CSO knowledge and expertise into ADB operations.
• Deepen ADB’s process and procedures for working with CSOs in the operations via leading on production of guidelines and guidance notes with sector and thematic focals of the CSOs anchors network.
• Support ADB departments and offices in the application of appropriate participation methodologies, strategies, and techniques which enhance CSO’s participation in ADB strategic operational support.
• Lead the design and implementation of developing member country (DMC) and ADB’s institutional capacity building in respective regions as assigned by supervisor.
• Coordinate with Head of NGOC to identify, process and administer technical assistance by working within ADB’s general policies, principles, and business processes.
• Strengthen and support CSO capacity to work more effectively and efficiently with ADB and DMCs under One ADB approach.
• Support NGOC Head as needed to engage CSOs in continuing dialogue by developing strategic partnerships between ADB and CSOs.
• Contribute to NGOC’s operational approach paper and its objectives.

Qualifications

You will need:

• Master’s degree, or equivalent, in Social Sciences, Public Policy Development Studies/Economics, or related fields; or University degree in Social Sciences, Public Policy Development Studies/Economics, or related fields and at least 5 years specialized experience relevant to the position can be considered
• At least 10 years of work experience, including recent experience working for CSOs. Strong understanding of where and how CSOs may contribute to ADB operations, with up-to-date and in-depth knowledge in concepts and practices related to ADB-CSO cooperation in Asia and the Pacific.
• Proven operational competence in project design, implementation, financial management, monitoring, and evaluation of development projects. Knowledge of ADB business processes and experience in developing and administering ADB technical assistance and ADB Loan and Grants an advantage. Experience in CSO contracting and partnership agreements, CSO-capacity building, CSO-networking and ADB-government-CSO engagement policies and practices. Has up-to-date knowledge in concepts and practices related to CSO engagement and experience in training staff and government officials in CSO engagement in development operations.
• International experience working in development in several countries, and comprehensive understanding of social and cultural environments, including field exposure, in several Asian and the Pacific countries. Has networking experience with Governments, multilateral development banks, United Nations, donor agencies, philanthropic organizations, international policy/advocacy CSOs, and the private sector in the fields relevant to the position.
• Ability to liaise and engage effectively with ADB Board, Management and senior staff, and advocacy NGOs. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.

Please refer to the link ADB Competency Framework for International Staff Level 5.

Benefits

ADB offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package. The salary will be based on ADB’s standards and comparator markets, taking into account your qualifications and experience.

· Paid leave (including parental)

· Medical and health benefits

· Life and other insurance plans

· Staff development

· Retirement plan

· Housing and education allowance (if applicable)

· Expatriate benefits (for international staff)