Principal Private Sector 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 improve lives, build quality infrastructure, and protect the environment. ADB is committed to creating an inclusive work environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women, regardless of their background or identity.

Job Overview:
The Principal Private Sector Development Specialist will play a crucial role in leading the South Asia Department's (SARD) initiatives to enhance private sector development (PSD) and public-private partnerships (PPP). This position is based in the Bangladesh Resident Mission (BRM) in Dhaka and involves a three-year initial assignment, with potential relocation to ADB's headquarters in Manila or another resident mission thereafter. The specialist will be responsible for developing country partnership strategies, identifying opportunities for private sector-led growth, and supporting ADB's PSD operations, including capacity building and project preparation. The role requires strategic planning, business development, investment operations, external relations, and knowledge services, all aimed at fostering an enabling environment for private sector engagement in development projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal Private Sector Development Specialist will have a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Leading the development of PSD-related strategies and approaches in South Asia, collaborating with relevant partners.
• Contributing to the Country Partnership Strategy (CPS) by developing private sector assessments and PSD roadmaps.
• Monitoring private sector development needs and identifying opportunities for ADB assistance through various operational modalities.
• Conducting policy dialogues with governments and stakeholders to address challenges in scaling up PSD and PPPs.
• Overseeing project preparation support and transaction advisory services, ensuring effective marketing and negotiation of projects.
• Building and managing relationships with government agencies, development partners, and private sector stakeholders.
• Leading knowledge services related to private sector development and organizing knowledge-sharing events.
• Supervising and mentoring junior team members, ensuring their ongoing learning and development.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent in economics, business administration, finance, accounting, public policy, or related fields. Alternatively, a university degree with at least 5 years of specialized experience relevant to the position may be considered. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 12 years of work experience in developing and implementing PSD programs, PPP project development, and multi-sector infrastructure transactions. Experience in building and managing teams, as well as diversified international experience in development institutions and the private sector, is essential. Familiarity with ADB's Competency Framework for Technical International Staff Level 3 is also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as economics, business administration, finance, accounting, or public policy. 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 12 years of relevant work experience in private sector development, public-private partnerships, and infrastructure transaction advisory. Candidates should have a proven track record of collaborating with government entities, private sector investors, and international organizations. Experience in developing and implementing PSD programs and managing teams is crucial, as is a diversified international background in development finance institutions, commercial banks, or advisory firms operating in developing countries.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, given the international nature of ADB's work and the need for effective communication with diverse stakeholders. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the Asia-Pacific region would be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with local partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term appointment for an initial period of three years, with the possibility of extension for up to two additional years or conversion to a regular appointment based on performance and organizational needs. The position is full-time and may involve relocation to other ADB offices. ADB offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including housing and education allowances, retirement plans, medical benefits, paid leave, and opportunities for staff development.