Principal Human Resource Specialist (Legal)

Job Posting Organization:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is an international development finance institution established to foster economic growth and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. Founded in 1966, ADB has grown to include 69 member countries, with 50 of them located in the Asia and Pacific region. The organization is dedicated to alleviating poverty and promoting sustainable development through financial assistance, knowledge sharing, and partnerships. ADB's mission is to create a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while working towards the eradication of extreme poverty. The bank employs a diverse workforce and is committed to providing equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their background. ADB operates in multiple countries across the Asia-Pacific region, making it a significant player in international development finance.

Job Overview:
The Principal Human Resource Specialist (Legal) position is a critical role within the Asian Development Bank, specifically located in the Office of the Director General within the Budget, People, and Management Systems Department. This position is designed for an experienced professional who will provide expert legal advice and guidance on human resource policies and initiatives. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing complex staff cases, including grievances and integrity violations, while ensuring compliance with legal standards and organizational policies. The role requires close collaboration with various departments, including the Office of the General Counsel and the Office of Anti-Corruption and Integrity, to address legal considerations in HR matters. The Principal Human Resource Specialist will also play a key role in drafting and reviewing administrative orders and guidelines, ensuring that the organization’s HR practices align with legal requirements and best practices. This position is essential for fostering a culture of integrity and transparency within ADB, as well as supporting the overall mission of the organization to promote sustainable development in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal Human Resource Specialist (Legal) will undertake a variety of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Providing ongoing legal advice to the Director General and other managerial staff on policy initiatives, ensuring that legal considerations are identified and addressed early in the process.
• Managing and supervising integrity violation cases and misconduct cases, ensuring that appropriate disciplinary measures are taken in accordance with ADB policies.
• Supporting HR divisions in performance management policy and handling individual cases of unsatisfactory performance or staff separation.
• Drafting and reviewing documentation necessary for achieving HR objectives while managing legal risks effectively.
• Handling compulsory conciliation matters initiated by staff and supporting the grievance process, including administrative reviews and appeals.
• Advising management on human resources issues raised by current or former staff to mitigate potential legal risks.
• Drafting and reviewing HR guidelines, administrative orders, and related instructions, ensuring compliance with legal standards.
• Preparing Notes Verbale on privileges and immunities for ADB staff assigned to field offices and liaising with governmental authorities.
• Supervising the performance of reporting staff, providing guidance, direction, and feedback to ensure their professional development and performance improvement.

Required Qualifications:
To be considered for the Principal Human Resource Specialist (Legal) position, candidates must possess the following qualifications:

• A Master's Degree or equivalent in Law, Human Resources, or a relevant field.
• A university degree with at least 5 years of specialized experience relevant to the position may be considered.
• A minimum of 12 years of relevant professional experience, particularly in legal or employment relations or HR within an international organization.
• Proven experience in international employment relations is preferred.
• Strong ability to work effectively with multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary teams.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English, with the ability to present complex legal and HR policy issues clearly and effectively.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a Master's Degree or equivalent in Law or relevant fields, or a university degree with significant experience in human resources or legal matters. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in legal principles, human resources management, or related disciplines, which are essential for navigating the complexities of HR policies and legal considerations within an international organization.

Experience:
The position requires at least 12 years of relevant professional experience, with a strong emphasis on legal or employment relations within an international context. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing complex HR issues, including grievances and integrity violations, and should be familiar with the legal frameworks governing employment in international organizations. Experience working in a multi-cultural environment and with diverse teams is highly valued, as is the ability to inspire trust and confidence among colleagues and stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills required to effectively convey complex legal and HR policy issues. While English is the primary language of communication within ADB, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly those relevant to the Asia-Pacific region, as it can enhance collaboration and communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term appointment for an initial period of 3 years, with the possibility of extension for up to 2 additional years, conversion to a regular appointment, or termination at the end of the initial period based on organizational needs and staff performance. ADB offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including housing and education allowances (if applicable), expatriate benefits (if applicable), retirement plans, medical and health benefits, paid leave (including parental leave), and life and other insurance plans. The appointment is open to both internal and external applicants, and ADB encourages qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.