Principal Country Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a leading multilateral development bank established in 1966, headquartered in Manila, Philippines. ADB's mission is to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region. It is owned by 69 members, with 50 from the region, and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to fostering inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. ADB collaborates with its members and partners to address complex challenges, utilizing innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives and build quality infrastructure. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women, to ensure an inclusive work environment.

Job Overview:
The Principal Country Specialist position is a pivotal role within the Pakistan Resident Mission (PRM) of the Central and West Asia Department (CWRD) at ADB. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading the planning and implementation of country operations, focusing on country programming, knowledge management, and proactive client engagement. This role involves close collaboration with various stakeholders, including government officials, development partners, and private sector entities, to promote development partnerships between ADB and Pakistan. The Principal Country Specialist will also play a key role in business development and project identification for both sovereign and non-sovereign operations, ensuring alignment with ADB's strategic objectives and operational frameworks.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal Country Specialist will undertake a variety of duties, including leading the formulation and implementation of country strategies and programs, developing annual pipelines in coordination with government clients and other stakeholders. The role requires establishing and maintaining relationships with government officials, representing ADB at conferences and seminars, and performing outreach on ADB's strategies and engagements. Additionally, the Principal Country Specialist will support sector departments and thematic groups, ensuring that ADB's strategic considerations are integrated into operations. Responsibilities also include overseeing technical assistance activities, preparing documents for management and the Board, supervising reporting staff, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and development within the team.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent in economics, finance, policy studies, engineering, or related fields. Alternatively, 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 in areas such as economics, strategic development planning, and policy formulation is required, with international experience in development contexts being highly advantageous. Familiarity with ADB's operations, policies, and procedures, along with strong operational experience in leading ADB operations and country programming, is preferred. Candidates should also have experience collaborating with senior staff and government officials, as well as excellent English communication skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as economics, finance, policy studies, or engineering. A university degree combined with significant specialized experience may also be acceptable. The emphasis is on advanced knowledge and skills that align with the responsibilities of the Principal Country Specialist role.

Experience:
The position requires at least 12 years of relevant professional experience, which should encompass a range of areas including economics, strategic development planning, and policy formulation. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in international development, particularly in developing countries, and should demonstrate experience in leading and managing complex projects and operations.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with excellent written and verbal communication skills being essential for the role. While English is the primary language of communication within ADB, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly those relevant to the region.

Additional Notes:
This 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 ADB's needs and the candidate's performance. The position is based in Islamabad, Pakistan, and relocation is required, with all reasonable relocation expenses covered. 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 opportunities for staff development.