Senior Digital Transformation 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. The organization is owned by 69 members, with 50 from the region, and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to fostering prosperity in Asia. 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. ADB is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all individuals are treated with respect and given equal opportunities, encouraging applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds, including women and underrepresented groups.

Job Overview:
The Senior Digital Transformation Specialist will play a pivotal role within the Digital Sector Office (DIG) of the Sectors Department 2 (SD2) at ADB. This position requires a relocation to the ADB Headquarters in Manila, and all reasonable relocation expenses will be covered. The specialist will act as DIG's central technical resource for digital procurement, providing expertise in the design, execution, and implementation of procurement activities related to digital technologies. This includes digital public infrastructure, cloud and data platforms, cybersecurity solutions, AI-enabled systems, and sectoral digital systems. The role involves ensuring that procurement processes are technically sound, vendor-neutral, interoperable, and aligned with market best practices. The specialist will support operational teams and DMC counterparts in preparing and executing procurement activities, ensuring effective implementation of DIG's work across various regions and thematic areas.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Digital Transformation Specialist will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including leading digital procurement design across DIG by providing specialized technical guidance to regional and sector teams. This includes advising on procurement strategies, preparing functional and technical specifications, and ensuring procurement packages reflect modern digital implementation realities. The specialist will also support the execution of digital procurement activities by drafting bidding documents, RFPs, and evaluation criteria, as well as providing technical support to evaluation committees. Additionally, the role involves strengthening digital procurement capacity across ADB and DMCs by building staff capacity, developing standard templates and guidance materials, and promoting market-informed procurement models. The specialist will provide cross-cutting support across DIG initiatives, ensuring digital procurement is integrated early in project preparation and resolving procurement and contract management issues during implementation. Furthermore, the specialist will contribute to knowledge development by creating case studies and engaging with global partners to harmonize digital procurement approaches.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree or equivalent in Public Policy, Business Administration, Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, 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 10 years of work experience is required, with at least 8 years of relevant experience in designing and executing procurement for digital solutions, including IT systems, cloud services, and major system integration projects. Familiarity with procurement of software development, agile contracting, and digital PPP models is essential. Candidates should have a strong understanding of technical solution design, systems architecture, and digital safeguards related to procurement design, as well as experience reviewing vendor proposals and supporting operational teams in developing country contexts.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's Degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as Public Policy, Business Administration, Engineering, Computer Science, or Information Technology. A university degree combined with significant specialized experience may also be acceptable, demonstrating the candidate's capability to fulfill the role's responsibilities effectively.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of work experience, with a focus on digital procurement and solutions. Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience specifically in designing and executing procurement for digital technologies, including IT systems, cloud services, and cybersecurity solutions. Experience in supporting operational teams in developing countries, particularly in Asia and the Pacific, is highly valued, as is the ability to work with governments to navigate procurement challenges.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for effective communication and negotiation. Additional language skills relevant to the Asia-Pacific region may be considered advantageous, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position 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. 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. The organization encourages applications from both internal and external candidates, promoting an inclusive hiring process.