Digital Development 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. It 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. The organization is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees are treated with respect and given equal opportunities, encouraging applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds, including women and individuals with disabilities.

Job Overview:
The Digital Development Specialist position at ADB is a pivotal role within the Digital Sector Office, where the incumbent will lead the identification, development, approval, and implementation of digital development projects. This includes technical assistance, sovereign and non-sovereign projects, and policy-based loans across various sectors and themes. The specialist will contribute to the development of policies and strategies for country programs, monitor the development impact of the portfolio, and ensure that key issues are addressed with proper risk management. The role requires collaboration with country teams and operational departments to process and implement digital projects, as well as support governments in executing digital programs and capacity development efforts. The specialist will also manage strategic partnerships, develop knowledge products, and participate in learning events to advocate for and share knowledge on digital technologies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Digital Development Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Leading the identification and preparation of a pipeline of digital development projects through outreach with developing member countries (DMCs) and country teams.
• Conducting country diagnostic studies and analyses to support country programming exercises.
• Overseeing the internal project approval process, interfacing with various teams including Country Teams, Sector Group, procurement, legal, and management.
• Supporting operational departments in the processing and implementation of digital projects.
• Implementing digital technology for development programs, ensuring compliance with guidelines, policies, and reporting requirements.
• Assisting DMC governments in implementing digital programs and capacity development efforts.
• Managing strategic partnerships with experts at global, regional, and local levels.
• Developing knowledge products and conducting knowledge-sharing activities for ADB operational staff.
• Participating in relevant learning events for advocacy and knowledge building. 1
• Maintaining knowledge of best practices in digital technologies and developing ADB digital development strategies aligned with Strategy 203
• 1
• Providing strategic inputs on projects and policies related to digital development. 1
• Drafting and reviewing project and policy papers on digital technology issues. 1
• Participating in country teams for planning and programming digital technology components. 1
• Leading and supporting reporting staff, managing their performance, and ensuring their ongoing development. 1
• Contributing to reports, briefing materials, and presentations for various audiences.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Digital Development Specialist position must possess a university degree relevant to digital or information technologies, preferably at the post-graduate level or its equivalent. They should have at least six years of relevant professional experience in the digital development sector, ideally within the international development context. International experience working in multiple countries is essential. Candidates should have a strong knowledge of digital technologies, including digital public infrastructure, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, as well as experience in digital transformation and change management. The ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment is crucial, along with proficiency in both spoken and written English.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in a field relevant to digital or information technologies. A post-graduate degree or equivalent qualification is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise in the relevant area.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of six years of relevant professional experience in the digital development sector, with a preference for experience in the international development sector. Candidates must have international experience working in various countries, demonstrating their ability to navigate diverse cultural and operational environments. Additionally, two years of relevant experience outside of ADB within the past five years is mandatory, with prior engagement as an ADB consultant or contractor considered as experience outside of ADB.

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, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This appointment is open to both internal and external applicants and is crucial to ADB's Workforce Rebalancing Framework (2022-2027), aimed at enhancing in-house expertise. The role 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. After the initial period, ADB may choose to renew the appointment based on various factors, including the need for the specific skills and experience of the staff member, funding availability, and performance. There is no limit to the number of renewals up to NRD, but this appointment is not convertible to a regular appointment. ADB offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including housing and education allowances, expatriate benefits, a retirement plan, medical and health benefits, paid leave, and life insurance plans.