Senior Country Economist

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 is headquartered in Manila, Philippines, and comprises 69 member countries, with 50 of them from the Asia and Pacific region. ADB's mission is to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development through financial assistance, knowledge sharing, and partnerships. The organization employs a diverse workforce dedicated to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while continuously striving to eradicate extreme poverty. ADB operates in multiple countries across the Asia-Pacific region, providing support for various development projects and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Senior Country Economist position is a pivotal role within the Philippines Country Office (PHCO) of the Southeast Asia Department (SERD) at ADB. The incumbent will be responsible for leading the economic sector work of PHCO, which includes engaging with the government, coordinating with development partners, and disseminating knowledge solutions. The role requires conducting regular economic analysis, monitoring, and diagnostics to support the implementation of the Philippines Country Partnership Strategy (CPS). This strategy aligns with the country's development plans and ADB's Strategy 203

• The Senior Country Economist will facilitate interactions between the government and various ADB divisions, contributing to the design and processing of loans, technical assistance, and regional cooperation initiatives. The position also involves overseeing junior team members and ensuring the quality of economic research and analysis.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Country Economist will undertake a variety of duties, including but not limited to: supporting the implementation of the CPS, leading mid-term reviews, and preparing new CPS documents. The role involves developing and monitoring the country's knowledge plan, coordinating with donors, and managing communications and external relations. The incumbent will establish effective relationships with senior government officials and serve as a communication link between the Philippines and ADB. Additionally, the Senior Country Economist will lead complex economic studies, prepare chapters for the Asian Development Outlook (ADO), and organize policy dialogues and knowledge-sharing activities. The role also includes supporting ADB's sovereign and non-sovereign operations, contributing to project design, and mentoring staff within the economics team.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in economics, political science, public policy, public administration, or related fields, with a PhD being an advantage. A minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience in development planning, policy formulation, and operations is required. Candidates should have broad-based exposure to country programming and operational experience, ideally within multilateral development banks. Evidence of high-quality knowledge outputs and expertise in economic research and development in developing countries is essential. Strong quantitative, analytical, and conceptual skills in economics are necessary, along with international experience in development across multiple countries, particularly in Southeast Asia and the Philippines. Proven collaboration, cross-cultural, and negotiation skills are also required, along with excellent proficiency in verbal and written English communications.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in economics, political science, public policy, public administration, or other relevant fields. A PhD is considered an advantage. Candidates with a university degree and at least 5 years of specialized professional experience in knowledge-related work may also be considered for the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of relevant professional experience in development planning, policy formulation, and operations. Candidates should have operational experience, ideally in multilateral development banks, particularly in policy-based operations. Experience in conducting economic research and development in developing countries is essential, along with international experience working in various countries, especially in Southeast Asia and the Philippines.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, both verbal and written. Candidates should demonstrate excellent communication skills to effectively liaise with senior staff, management, and government officials. Additional language skills relevant to the region may be considered advantageous but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term appointment for an initial period of 3 years, with the possibility of extension for up to 2 years or conversion to a regular appointment based on performance and organizational needs. The position is full-time and based at ADB Headquarters in Manila, Philippines. ADB offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including housing and education allowances, expatriate benefits, retirement plans, medical and health benefits, paid leave, and staff development opportunities. ADB is committed to creating an inclusive environment and encourages all qualified candidates to apply, regardless of their background.