Digital Technology Specialist (Data Governance & Cybersecurity)

Job Posting Organization:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a leading multilateral development bank established in 1966, headquartered in Manila, Philippines. ADB is owned by 69 members, with 50 from the Asia-Pacific region. The organization aims to support inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. ADB works collaboratively with its members and partners to address complex challenges, utilizing innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard the planet. ADB is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities, encouraging all qualified candidates to apply, particularly women and underrepresented groups.

Job Overview:
The Digital Technology Specialist (Data Governance & Cybersecurity) position is integral to the Digital Sector Office (DIG) within the Sectors Department 2 (SD2) at ADB. The role involves providing hands-on technical expertise in data governance, digital skills, cybersecurity, privacy, and operational resilience across various digital and infrastructure projects. The specialist will work closely with operational teams to ensure that digital investments are secure, compliant, interoperable, and sustainable throughout their lifecycle. This includes ensuring that procurement processes for digital projects are technically sound, vendor-neutral, and aligned with market best practices. The specialist will also play a crucial role in establishing DIG as a center of excellence for digital procurement within ADB, thereby improving project quality and accelerating execution across the Bank's digital transformation portfolio.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The responsibilities of the Digital Technology Specialist include:

• Supporting Data Governance, Data Skills, and Cybersecurity Design: Providing technical guidance on data governance frameworks, integrating cybersecurity and privacy principles into project preparation, and advising on IT-OT cybersecurity risks.
• Supporting Execution of Digital Procurement Activities: Reviewing terms of reference (TORs), bidding documents, and contracts to ensure cybersecurity and data governance requirements are met, and supporting technical evaluations of proposals.
• Strengthening Digital Procurement Capacity: Building capacity among ADB staff and counterparts on data governance and cybersecurity, developing guidance notes and templates for assessments, and supporting institutional strengthening for regulators.
• Providing Cross-Cutting Support: Supporting all DIG workstreams with procurement expertise, ensuring integration of digital procurement early in project preparation, and advising project teams during implementation.
• Knowledge, Partnerships, and Continuous Improvement: Developing knowledge products on digital procurement, maintaining an understanding of global market trends, and engaging with global partners to harmonize approaches.
• Talent Development & Representation: Mentoring junior staff and representing DIG in forums related to digital procurement and systems implementation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in information technology, cybersecurity, or relevant fields, preferably at the post-graduate level or its equivalent. They should have at least 6 years of experience in data governance, cybersecurity, digital risk management, or secure digital systems. International experience working in multiple countries is essential, along with experience in technical solution design, systems architecture, and procurement design. Candidates should also have experience reviewing vendor proposals and supporting operational teams in developing country contexts, particularly in Asia and the Pacific. Strong negotiation skills and the ability to advise senior partners on digital procurement are crucial, as well as experience in leading diverse teams and solving procurement challenges.

Educational Background:
The position requires a university degree in information technology, cybersecurity, or a related field. A post-graduate degree or equivalent is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and knowledge in the relevant areas.

Experience:
A minimum of 6 years of relevant experience is required, particularly in data governance, cybersecurity, and digital risk management. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in international settings and possess experience in technical solution design and procurement processes, especially in developing countries.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of ADB. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the Asia-Pacific region would be considered an advantage, enhancing communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

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 requires relocation to Manila, with all reasonable relocation expenses covered. ADB offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including housing and education allowances, medical benefits, paid leave, and retirement plans. ADB is committed to diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.