Senior Urban Development Specialist

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 of them from the Asia-Pacific region. The organization is 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, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard the planet. ADB is committed to creating an inclusive work environment where everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates regardless of their background, gender, or disabilities. Women are particularly encouraged to apply for positions within the organization.

Job Overview:
The Senior Urban Development Specialist position is a pivotal role within the Water and Urban Development Sector Office at ADB, based in the Papua New Guinea Resident Mission. The specialist will be responsible for leading the formulation and articulation of policies and strategies related to urban and water sectors in Papua New Guinea and other Pacific countries. This role involves overseeing the identification, development, processing, implementation, and administration of loans, grants, and technical assistance (TA) projects. The specialist will provide essential technical support and knowledge to stakeholders, ensuring effective project implementation and alignment with development goals. The position requires a strong focus on portfolio management, project reviews, and the attainment of development impacts, with an emphasis on integrating climate change considerations into urban development initiatives. The specialist will also be expected to collaborate with various sector offices and departments within ADB to propose integrated solutions that address regional needs, while introducing innovative practices and smart solutions in project design and administration.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Urban Development Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: leading the preparation, processing, and administration of loans, grants, and TAs in urban development; developing and designing new lending projects and programs; collaborating with other sector offices to propose integrated solutions; identifying innovative solutions and best practices; proposing contract modalities and leading procurement discussions; coordinating with relevant departments to implement loans and grants; supporting the Cities Development Initiative of Asia Trust Fund Management; assessing urban sector policies and strategies; identifying priority areas for urban development; assisting teams with inquiries related to urban governance reforms; developing strategic partnerships for knowledge and project opportunities; generating and disseminating knowledge solutions; leading in-house studies and seminars; supervising and mentoring junior staff; and performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Senior Urban Development Specialist position must possess a Master's degree in civil engineering, environmental engineering, urban and regional planning, urban and environmental management, or related fields. Alternatively, a university degree combined with at least 5 years of relevant work experience may be considered. A minimum of 10 years of professional experience in urban development, municipal service improvement, or water utilities is required, along with practical knowledge in project preparation and administration. Preference will be given to candidates with experience in integrating financial, economic, social, and institutional requirements into project delivery. International experience working in multiple countries is also essential, as is broad experience in investment project preparation and development policy analysis. Candidates should demonstrate team leadership skills and experience in leading professionals and teams in technical matters and project implementation.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in relevant fields such as civil engineering, environmental engineering, urban and regional planning, or urban and environmental management. Candidates with a university degree and significant relevant work experience may also be considered, particularly if they have at least 5 years of experience in the field.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of relevant professional experience in urban development and municipal service improvement, or in the water sector. Candidates should have substantial experience in project preparation and administration, with a strong emphasis on delivering projects that meet financial, economic, social, and institutional requirements. International experience across various countries is highly valued, as is a proven track record in leading teams and managing projects effectively.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with the ability to express ideas clearly in both spoken and written formats. While English is the primary language required for this position, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the regions in which ADB operates.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term appointment with the option to renew, initially for a period of up to 3 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 be required to 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, expatriate benefits, retirement plans, medical and health benefits, paid leave, and staff development opportunities. The appointment is open to both internal and external applicants.