Public Sector Economist

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 works collaboratively 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 environment. 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 Public Sector Economist position is situated within the Public Sector Management and Governance Sector Office (PSMG) of the Sectors Department 3 (SD3) at ADB's headquarters in Manila, Philippines. The role requires relocation to Manila, with all reasonable relocation expenses covered. The Public Sector Economist will play a crucial role in identifying, designing, and administering loans, technical assistance, and non-lending products related to public sector management. The position involves conducting policy research on fiscal policies, public management strategies, and regulatory issues for assigned regional countries. The economist will also be responsible for creating high-quality knowledge products that support ADB's activities and contribute to the strategic and operational development of the PSMG sector. This includes project identification, preparation, appraisal, and documentation, as well as engaging with government officials and stakeholders to enhance public sector management and government capacity. The role also involves mentoring junior team members and leading the development of loan and technical assistance projects for governments in developing member countries (DMCs).

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Public Sector Economist will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including:

• Identifying, designing, and contributing to the processing and administration of loans and technical assistance in public sector management.
• Conducting policy research on fiscal policies, public management strategies, and regulatory issues for assigned countries.
• Creating high-quality knowledge products related to economic management.
• Supporting the strategic and operational development of the PSMG sector, including project identification and preparation.
• Leading or contributing to strategic planning and developing core expertise in emerging areas.
• Supporting dialogue with government officials to improve public sector management and enhance government capacity.
• Leading the development and administration of loan and technical assistance projects for governments at all levels in DMCs.
• Participating in country teams and providing inputs for Country Partnership Strategies and Country Operations.
• Coordinating with other sectors and departments for collaboration to improve development impact. 1
• Reviewing portfolio performance and preparing initiatives to promote project quality. 1
• Conducting economic, thematic, and sector work related to public sector management. 1
• Facilitating effective evaluation processes for PSMG work. 1
• Managing knowledge products and services, including peer reviews. 1
• Supervising the performance of reporting staff and ensuring their ongoing learning and development.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Public Sector Economist position must possess a university degree in economics, finance, public policy, or related fields, preferably at the post-graduate level or its equivalent. They should have at least 6 years of relevant professional experience in public sector management at both national and sub-national levels, ideally within a reputable research institution or multilateral agency. Extensive knowledge of public finance in Asia is essential, along with significant expertise in ADB's public management operations. Proven experience as a team leader for processing or administration projects and holding policy dialogue related to public finance is required. Candidates should demonstrate a good understanding of the full project cycle, including program identification, analysis of relevant policies, and coordination with external stakeholders. Flexibility and aptitude to learn new issues within the public sector and financial sector are also important.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Public Sector Economist position includes a university degree in economics, finance, public policy, or other related fields. A post-graduate degree or its equivalent is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of complex economic and public sector issues.

Experience:
The position requires at least 6 years of relevant professional experience in public sector management, ideally gained at both national and sub-national levels. Experience should preferably be within a reputable research institution or a multilateral agency, demonstrating a strong background in public finance and management.

Languages:
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the Asia-Pacific region may be considered advantageous but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term appointment for an initial period of 3 years, with the possibility of extension for up to 2 additional years, conversion to a regular appointment, or termination at the end of the initial period based on ADB's needs and the staff member's performance. The position offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including housing and education allowances (if applicable), expatriate benefits (if applicable), relocation assistance, retirement plans, medical and health benefits, paid leave (including parental leave), life and other insurance plans, and opportunities for staff development.