Associate Project Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is an international development finance institution that was established to foster economic growth and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. Headquartered in Manila, Philippines, ADB has a membership of 69 countries, with 50 of those being from the Asia and Pacific region. The organization is dedicated to alleviating poverty and promoting sustainable development through financial assistance, knowledge sharing, and partnerships. ADB aims to achieve a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while continuously working to eradicate extreme poverty. The institution combines finance, knowledge, and partnerships to fulfill its expanded vision under its Strategy 203

• ADB is committed to creating an inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women, and individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Job Overview:
The Associate Project Officer position is situated within the Financial Sector Office (SD-FIN) of the Sectors Department 3 (SD3) at ADB. This role is pivotal in supporting the portfolio performance of the division by providing operational, analytical, and knowledge support. The Associate Project Officer will work both independently and collaboratively to ensure effective functioning of the team. Responsibilities include providing technical assistance in project processing, administration, and contract management, as well as supporting the implementation and administration of investment and technical assistance projects. The role requires a proactive approach to monitoring project progress, preparing performance reports, and addressing issues related to project implementation. The Associate Project Officer will also engage with government officials and stakeholders, contribute to sector assessments, and support priority initiatives within the finance sector.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Project Officer include:

• Supporting the processing, implementation, and administration of investment projects and technical assistance projects, focusing on the Financial Sector.
• Monitoring the progress of assigned projects and preparing project performance reports.
• Preparing annual forecasts of contract awards and disbursements, identifying factors responsible for shortfalls, and expediting achievements of target levels.
• Identifying issues related to project implementation and coordinating actions with executing agencies, implementing agencies, contractors, consultants, and project beneficiaries.
• Preparing internal procurement papers and reviewing procurement documents, including draft technical designs and cost estimates.
• Conducting review missions with government counterparts and analyzing the team’s financial sector portfolio performance.
• Engaging in dialogue with government officials and key stakeholders, maintaining effective relationships to facilitate project formulation and monitoring.
• Participating in meetings, conferences, and workshops related to the finance sector.
• Contributing to sector assessments and providing advice on project procurement and sector policies. 1
• Supporting knowledge management initiatives and mentoring junior staff.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Associate Project Officer position must possess a Bachelor’s degree in finance, business administration, economics, engineering, public administration, or related disciplines, with a preference for advanced training. A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in project management and implementation within the financial sector is required. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical abilities, experience with various stages of the project cycle, and sound knowledge of government administrative systems and procurement processes. The ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, excellent communication skills, and a client-oriented approach are essential. Additionally, candidates must have two years of relevant experience outside ADB within the past five years, and experience as an ADB-engaged consultant or contractor is considered relevant.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Associate Project Officer position includes a Bachelor’s degree in finance, business administration, economics, engineering, public administration, or related fields. Advanced training in these areas is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and knowledge relevant to the financial sector and project management.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in project management and implementation within the financial sector. Candidates should have a strong understanding of the project cycle, including planning, feasibility analysis, detailed design, implementation, and contract management. Additionally, two years of relevant experience outside ADB within the past five years is mandatory, with experience as an ADB consultant or contractor being considered relevant.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the regions in which ADB operates.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term appointment with the option to renew, initially for a period of up to 3 years, or until the Normal Retirement Date (NRD), whichever comes first. The role is part of ADB’s Workforce Rebalancing Framework (2022-2027), aimed at enhancing in-house expertise. Successful candidates may occasionally undertake short-term assignments in other departments or offices as required. ADB offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package, including paid leave, medical and health benefits, life insurance, staff development opportunities, a retirement plan, and housing and education allowances if applicable. Expatriate benefits are available for international staff.