Reference Number: 220683

Position Level: IS 4

Department: South Asia Department

Division: Office of the Director General, SARD

Location: Asian Development Bank Headquarters

Date Posted: Wednesday, June 14, 2023

Closing Date: Wednesday, July 5, 2023 11:59 p.m. (2359 Manila Time, 0800 GMT)

Important Information

ADB will be rolling-out its operating model which may result in the change of department/group and/or reporting arrangement(s). By proceeding with your application, you acknowledge and accept the possibility of such changes resulting from the new operating model (NOM).

This is a re-advertisement. Previous applicants need not apply.

Overview

Asian Development Bank (ADB) is an international development finance institution headquartered in Manila, Philippines and is composed of 68 members, 49 of which are from the Asia and Pacific region. ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. ADB combines finance, knowledge, and partnerships to fulfill its expanded vision under its Strategy 2030.

ADB only hires nationals of its 68 members.

The position is assigned within the Office of the Director General (SAOD) of the South Asia Department (SARD). SARD is responsible for lending and grant operations, project implementation and knowledge sharing in the region that supports inclusive economic and environmentally sustainable growth, and regional integration. SARD’s operations including sector and thematic work cover Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.To view ADB Organizational Chart, please click here.

Job Purpose

The Social Development Specialist will ensure compliance with ADB’s safeguard policy on environment, involuntary resettlement (IR) and indigenous peoples (IP) during processing and implementation of loans, grant and technical assistance (TAs). Conduct policy dialogue with clients and stakeholders, work to strengthen country safeguard systems, and build staff and counterpart capacity on environmental and social safeguards. Work with broad policies and objectives, working directly with clients, with supervision for critical tasks. The incumbent will report to Director General SARD and may supervise national and administrative staff.

Responsibilities

•  Supports the review and development of country safeguard systems or frameworks in developing member countries (DMCs) in consultation with relevant government agencies and local beneficiary groups.
•  Contributes information and analyses for economic and sector work and interdepartmental working groups on environment, involuntary resettlement, and indigenous people
•  Conducts policy dialogue with DMC governments and other stakeholders on environmental and social safeguard issues.
•  Takes responsibility of environmental and social safeguards particularly on IR and IP and supports project officers in achieving safeguard compliance during project processing.
•  Provides support to implement and monitor environmental and social safeguard aspects of projects.
•  Assists project officers in addressing any compliance issues in consultation with SDCC.
•  Provides advice and guidance on environmental and social safeguard issues to executing agencies and project teams during project preparation and implementation.
•  Develops and implements ADB’s TA projects aimed at strengthening country safeguard systems and engaging with civil society.
•  Participates in and contributes to internal and external training and conferences on environmental and social safeguards, particularly on IR and IP, as well as to other activities for advocacy, dissemination and knowledge building.

Qualifications

Relevant Experience & Requirements

•  Master’s Degree, or equivalent, in environment, sociology, anthropology, applied social science or other related fields; or University degree and at least 5 years specialized experience relevant to the position can be considered
•  At least 8 years of relevant professional experience in design and implementation of safeguards programs for infrastructure projects
•  Good working knowledge in the operations of multilateral organizations and executing agencies
•  Strong interpersonal, team, and negotiation skills
•  Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English
•  International experience working in several countries; and experience in the developing member countries of the region will be an advantage
•  Please refer to the link for ADB Competency Framework for ADB Competency Framework for International Staff Level 4

General Considerations

The selected candidate, if new to ADB, is appointed for an initial term of 3 years.

ADB offers competitive remuneration and a comprehensive benefits package. Actual appointment salary will be based on ADB’s standards and computation, taking into account the selected individual’s qualifications and experience.

ADB seeks to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities to work in an inclusive environment. ADB encourages all qualified candidates to apply regardless of their racial, ethnic, religious and cultural background, gender, sexual orientation or disabilities. Women are highly encouraged to apply.