Senior Natural Resources and Agriculture Specialist (Agribusiness)

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. ADB's mission is to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development, striving to achieve a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific. The organization combines finance, knowledge, and partnerships to fulfill its expanded vision under Strategy 2030, which aims to address the region's most pressing challenges. ADB is committed to ensuring that everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities to work in an inclusive environment, actively encouraging applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women, and those from diverse backgrounds.

Job Overview:
The Senior Natural Resources and Agriculture Specialist (Agribusiness) position is a critical role within the Agriculture, Food, Nature, and Rural Development Sector Office at ADB. This position involves leading the formulation and articulation of policies, strategies, projects, and programs focused on natural resources management and biodiversity conservation in developing member countries (DMCs). The specialist will be responsible for identifying, developing, processing, implementing, and administering loans, grants, and technical assistance (TA) projects, while providing necessary technical support and knowledge to stakeholders. The role requires a strong emphasis on portfolio management, ensuring effective project implementation, and achieving development impact. The specialist will also engage in policy dialogue with senior government officials and development partners, representing ADB in various forums and contributing to the development of Country Partnership Strategies. This position is integral to advancing ADB's strategic agenda in the region, particularly in addressing climate resilience and promoting sustainable agrifood systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Natural Resources and Agriculture Specialist (Agribusiness) include leading assessments of AFNR sector development policies and strategies, ensuring alignment with international best practices and emerging development needs. The specialist will prepare and implement studies to identify investment opportunities in the AFNR sector, introduce innovative solutions for ADB's assistance to DMCs, and lead the preparation and administration of loans, grants, and TAs in areas such as natural resources management and biodiversity conservation. The role also involves conducting policy dialogues with government officials, representing ADB in meetings, and developing strategic partnerships with external organizations. The specialist will generate and disseminate knowledge solutions, lead in-house studies, mentor reporting staff, and ensure their ongoing development. Additional responsibilities include performing other duties as assigned in alignment with the staff's workplan.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position must possess a Master's degree or equivalent in fields such as engineering, climate sciences, environment, food and agriculture sciences, economics, or related disciplines. Alternatively, a university degree combined with at least 5 years of specialized experience relevant to the position may be considered. A minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience in international financial institutions (IFIs), UN organizations, or development partners is required, with additional experience in corporate lending, investment banking, or private equity in the agriculture and natural resources sector being advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate excellent financial modeling, equity valuation, corporate and project finance skills, and possess extensive knowledge of developing sovereign and private sector projects in the agriculture and natural resources sector.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as engineering, climate sciences, environment, food and agriculture sciences, economics, or related areas. A university degree with significant specialized experience may also be acceptable, highlighting the importance of both formal education and practical experience in the field.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of relevant professional experience, particularly in operations, strategy, finance, or related fields within international financial institutions, UN organizations, or development partners. Candidates should have a strong background in developing projects in the agriculture and natural resources sector, with international experience across multiple countries being highly valued. Additional experience in corporate lending or investment banking within this sector will be considered a bonus.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with excellent written and verbal communication skills required for effective engagement with stakeholders and partners. While English is the primary language for this position, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in the context of working with diverse member countries.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of the Expert Pool Program at ADB, aimed at strengthening internal expertise in key operational areas. It is open to both internal and external applicants, with selected candidates subject to a one-year probationary period. The appointment is fixed-term with the option to renew for up to 3 years, or until the Normal Retirement Date (NRD), depending on various factors including performance and funding. The position offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package, including paid leave, medical benefits, life insurance, retirement plans, and housing allowances for expatriates. ADB emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.