Natural Resources and Agriculture Specialist

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 has grown to include 69 member countries, with 50 of these from the Asia and Pacific region. The organization is dedicated to alleviating poverty and promoting sustainable development through financial assistance, knowledge sharing, and partnerships. ADB's mission is to achieve a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while continuously working to eradicate extreme poverty. The bank operates in various sectors, including agriculture, natural resources, and rural development, and is committed to implementing its Strategy 2030 vision, which emphasizes sustainable and inclusive growth. ADB employs a diverse workforce and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, encouraging applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including women and underrepresented groups.

Job Overview:
The Natural Resources and Agriculture Specialist position is a critical role within the Agriculture, Food, Nature, and Rural Development Sector Office at ADB. The specialist will be responsible for leading the formulation and articulation of policies and strategies related to agriculture, food, natural resources, and rural development. This role involves engaging with developing member country (DMC) governments in policy dialogues and conducting ADB's activities to support policy reforms and climate change resilience in these sectors. The specialist will also identify and develop projects, including loans, grants, and technical assistance initiatives, particularly those aligned with the Glaciers to Farms program. The position requires a proactive approach to promoting nature-positive investments and enhancing security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security through innovative and sustainable practices. The specialist will contribute to the Country Partnership Strategy and collaborate with various stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of projects and initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Natural Resources and Agriculture Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Leading the development of strategies for agriculture, food, natural resources, and rural development in DMCs, ensuring consultation with relevant government agencies and resident missions.
• Overseeing the development, processing, and administration of loan, grant, and technical assistance projects in the agriculture and rural development sector, ensuring that key technical, economic, financial, and crosscutting issues are addressed.
• Contributing to ADB's efforts to promote sustainable agriculture and food security by designing innovative participatory approaches.
• Liaising with development agencies to coordinate policies, sector strategies, investments, and technical assistance.
• Keeping abreast of international best practices and contributing to ADB-wide sector and thematic groups.
• Performing other duties as assigned in accordance with the workplan.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Natural Resources and Agriculture Specialist position must possess a university degree in economics or engineering, with a specialization in natural resources, agriculture, rural development, or related fields. A postgraduate degree or equivalent is preferred. Additionally, candidates should have at least six years of relevant professional experience in natural resources, agriculture, and rural development projects. A strong understanding of sustainable development principles, analytical abilities, and proven leadership skills are essential. Candidates should also have a broad knowledge of international and national policies related to agriculture and rural development, as well as experience working in multiple Asian countries, particularly in Central and West Asian DMCs. Proficiency in English, both spoken and written, is mandatory, and two years of relevant experience outside ADB within the past five years is required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in economics or engineering, specializing in natural resources, agriculture, and rural development or other related fields. A postgraduate degree or its equivalent is preferred, as it provides a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in sustainable agriculture and rural development.

Experience:
The position requires at least six years of relevant professional experience in the fields of natural resources, agriculture, and rural development. Candidates should have substantial international experience working in development, particularly in the agriculture and rural development sectors across several Asian countries. Experience in multiple Central and West Asian DMCs is preferred, as it demonstrates familiarity with the specific challenges and opportunities in these regions. Additionally, candidates must have two years of relevant experience outside ADB within the past five years, which can include roles as a consultant or contractor.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as effective communication is crucial for engaging with stakeholders and articulating policies. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages relevant to the Asia-Pacific region may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to work in diverse environments and communicate with a broader range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term appointment with the option to renew, initially for a period of up to three years or until the Normal Retirement Date (NRD), whichever comes first. The role is part of ADB's Workforce Rebalancing Framework (2022-2027), aimed at enhancing in-house expertise. Successful candidates may occasionally undertake short-term assignments in other departments or offices as needed. ADB offers a competitive salary and 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), and life and other insurance plans. ADB is committed to creating an inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.