Senior Ombuds Programs Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a leading multilateral development bank that was established in 196

• It is headquartered in Manila, Philippines, and is owned by 69 members, with 50 of those members located in the Asia-Pacific region. ADB's mission is to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development across Asia. The organization employs a diverse workforce and is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all employees are treated with respect and given equal opportunities. ADB works collaboratively with its members and partners to address complex challenges, utilizing innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to drive transformative change in the region.

Job Overview:
The Senior Ombuds Programs Specialist position is situated within the Office of the Ombudsperson (OOMP) at ADB's headquarters in Manila. This role is pivotal in supporting ADB's informal conflict resolution function and leading initiatives aimed at enhancing conflict competence within the ADB community. The specialist will provide a wide array of informal conflict resolution services, including conflict coaching, mediation, and team processes. The role also involves advising staff on available resources for resolving concerns, identifying workplace trends, and developing skill-building activities to strengthen conflict resolution capabilities. The specialist will engage with various stakeholders, represent the OOMP, and contribute to the Office's outreach and communication strategies, as well as prepare the Office's annual report. Staying updated on the latest practices in informal dispute resolution is also a key expectation of this role.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Ombuds Programs Specialist include:

• Providing a comprehensive range of informal conflict resolution services such as option discussions, conflict coaching, shuttle diplomacy, team processes, and mediation.
• Advising staff on the various resources and formal avenues available for resolving workplace concerns.
• Identifying and analyzing trends and patterns affecting the workplace, and providing systemic insights to management for improvement.
• Developing and conducting skill-building activities aimed at enhancing the conflict competence of the ADB community.
• Contributing to the Office's outreach and communications plan to promote awareness of conflict resolution resources.
• Engaging with stakeholders and representing the Office of the Ombudsperson in various forums.
• Leading the preparation of the Office's annual report, ensuring it reflects the activities and impact of the Office.
• Staying current with the latest practices in informal dispute resolution to enhance service delivery.
• Contributing to ad-hoc projects and activities that aim to improve the effectiveness of the Office's services.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the Senior Ombuds Programs Specialist position, candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent, preferably in social sciences, law, public administration, dispute resolution, or related fields. Alternatively, a University degree in these areas combined with at least 5 years of specialized experience relevant to the position may be considered. Candidates should have a minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience in dispute resolution, including international work experience in various international organizations. Experience in handling workplace disputes through informal means, designing and facilitating group processes, and conducting skill-building workshops on conflict resolution topics is essential. A strong commitment to diversity, equality, and inclusion, along with sensitivity to cross-cultural factors in communication and interpersonal relations, is also required. Candidates must demonstrate effective listening skills and have written and verbal proficiency in English.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree or equivalent in social sciences, law, public administration, dispute resolution, or related fields. Alternatively, a University degree in these areas, combined with relevant specialized experience, may be acceptable. The emphasis is on having a strong foundation in disciplines that relate to conflict resolution and organizational behavior.

Experience:
Candidates are expected to have at least 10 years of relevant professional experience in dispute resolution, with a significant portion of that experience gained in international settings. This includes experience in dealing with various workplace disputes through informal means, as well as a proven track record in designing processes and facilitating group dynamics. Experience in developing and conducting training and workshops on conflict resolution topics is also crucial for this role.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, both written and verbal. This is essential for effective communication within the organization and with stakeholders. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to ADB's member countries.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term appointment with the possibility of renewal, initially for a period of up to 3 years or until the Normal Retirement Date (NRD), whichever comes first. The decision to renew the appointment will be based on various factors, including the staff member's performance, suitability for the role, and the ongoing needs of the organization. ADB offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including housing and education allowances, expatriate benefits, a retirement plan, medical and health benefits, paid leave (including parental leave), life and other insurance plans, and opportunities for staff development. ADB encourages applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women, and is committed to creating an inclusive work environment.