Principal, Project Implementation Adviser (PIA, Principal Adviser)

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is an international financial institution established in 199

• Its mission is to promote the transition to open market-oriented economies and to foster private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors, including infrastructure, energy, and financial institutions, and has invested over EUR 21 billion in more than 300 projects, supporting around 2,000 contracts.

Job Overview:
The Principal, Project Implementation Adviser (PIA) plays a crucial role in supporting the key activities of the Bank’s Procurement Policy and Advisory Department (PPAD). This position is designed to ensure adherence to the Bank’s policies while promoting high standards and integrity in operations, particularly within the public sector. The Principal Adviser will be responsible for developing project delivery strategies, assessing procurement risks, and establishing procurement and implementation arrangements. The role requires independent work while also collaborating with senior team members for guidance. The Principal PIA will primarily focus on projects in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, providing procurement support and ensuring compliance with the Bank’s Procurement Policies and Rules (PPR). This position is integral to the successful implementation of projects and achieving the Bank’s financial objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal Adviser will be responsible for preparing project procurement and implementation strategies, ensuring timely project completion in accordance with the Bank’s policies. Key duties include assessing procurement risks, proposing mitigation measures, and managing 10-30 contracts annually. The Principal Adviser will review legal documentation, prepare memos for Bank committees, and ensure compliance with procurement documents for public sector projects. Additionally, the role involves preparing disbursement forecasts, supporting project implementation, and assisting with other tasks as required by the PPAD Director or Head of Implementation Unit. The Principal Adviser will also manage relationships with external clients and prepare procurement-related presentations for relevant committees.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a degree in business administration, economics, engineering, or law, or have equivalent experience. Practical experience in procurement and project implementation in emerging markets is essential, along with a strong understanding of risk management and modern procurement practices. Experience working on International Financial Institution (IFI) funded projects is highly desirable. Strong written and spoken English communication skills are mandatory, and knowledge of local and/or Russian languages is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
A degree in business administration, economics, engineering, or law is required for this position. Equivalent experience in relevant fields may also be considered acceptable. The educational background should ideally include coursework or training related to procurement, project management, and risk assessment.

Experience:
The position requires practical experience in procurement and project implementation, particularly in emerging market countries. Candidates should have a solid understanding of risk management and modern procurement practices, with a preference for those who have worked on projects funded by International Financial Institutions (IFIs).

Languages:
A strong command of written and spoken English is mandatory for this role. Knowledge of local languages, particularly Russian, is desirable but not required. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in a multicultural environment and engage with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a regular contract with a length that is not specified. The role is based in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, and involves full-time work. The EBRD promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background. The organization supports flexible working arrangements, expecting employees to attend the office 50% of their working time. Due to the high volume of applications, detailed feedback will not be provided to candidates who are not shortlisted.