Operations Specialist

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 is composed of 69 member countries, with 50 of them from the Asia and Pacific region. ADB's mission is to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development, aiming to create a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific. The organization combines finance, knowledge, and partnerships to fulfill its expanded vision under Strategy 203

• ADB is committed to ensuring equal opportunities and a respectful work environment, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women, and those from diverse backgrounds.

Job Overview:
The Operations Specialist position is situated within the Operations Coordination Unit (CWOC) of the Central and West Asia Department (CWRD) at ADB. This role is pivotal in providing technical advice and support to enhance operational and knowledge management practices, policies, and guidelines that align with ADB's mission to reduce poverty. The Operations Specialist will be responsible for establishing and cascading the regional department's goals, ensuring they align with the region's needs and ADB's strategic priorities. The position requires a proactive approach to support the allocation of operational resources, advise on project programming, lead document reviews, and ensure compliance with ADB policies. The role also involves guiding project administration teams and coordinating with thematic and sector offices to ensure the quality of project-level documentation and decisions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Operations Specialist will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Supporting the establishment and cascading of the regional department's goals in alignment with ADB's strategic priorities and regional needs.
• Advising on the allocation of lending and non-lending operational resources.
• Assisting resident missions with the annual and medium-term programming of projects and activities.
• Leading the preparation of background papers and briefing notes for project discussions.
• Conducting document reviews of selected country operations, ensuring compliance with ADB's Accountability and Decision-Making framework.
• Supporting the design and monitoring of selected country work programs.
• Providing regional guidance on operational issues and ensuring adherence to ADB policies.
• Backstopping the quality of project-level documentation and decisions for sovereign operations and technical assistance.
• Coordinating with thematic and sector offices to ensure effective project administration. 1
• Guiding processing and project administration teams on relevant instructions and guidelines. 1
• Performing other tasks as outlined in the workplan.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Operations Specialist position must possess a university degree in Economics, Finance, Engineering, or related fields, preferably at the post-graduate level or its equivalent. Additionally, candidates should have at least 6 years of relevant professional experience, including international experience across multiple countries. Familiarity with the Central and West Asia region is advantageous. Candidates should demonstrate good knowledge and hands-on experience in programming pipelines, portfolio management, project management, and policy evaluation. A solid understanding of sector or thematic operations, as well as familiarity with operations and project administration guidelines, is essential. Strong written and verbal proficiency in English is required, along with leadership, analytical, and interpersonal skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Operations Specialist position includes a university degree in a relevant field such as Economics, Finance, Engineering, or other related disciplines. A post-graduate degree or equivalent qualification is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of complex economic and financial concepts relevant to the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant professional experience, which should include international exposure and work in various countries. Experience specifically within the Central and West Asia region is considered an advantage, as it provides valuable context and understanding of the operational challenges and opportunities in that area. Candidates should have a proven track record in programming, project management, and policy evaluation, demonstrating their ability to navigate complex operational environments effectively.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, both written and verbal. This is essential for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages relevant to the Asia-Pacific region may be considered beneficial, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This appointment is a fixed-term position 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 ADB's needs and the candidate's performance. The role is based at ADB's headquarters in Manila, Philippines, and relocation is required, with all reasonable relocation expenses covered. ADB offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including housing and education allowances (if applicable), expatriate benefits (if applicable), a retirement plan, medical and health benefits, paid leave (including parental leave), life and other insurance plans, and opportunities for staff development.