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's mission is to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region. The organization is owned by 69 members, with 50 of them from the region, and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to fostering prosperity across 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. 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, particularly women.

Job Overview:
The Public Sector Economist position is situated within the Public Sector Management and Governance Sector Cluster (PSMG) of the Sectors Department 3 (SD3) at ADB. The role is pivotal in supporting the formulation and articulation of public sector policies and strategies, addressing public management issues across ADB member countries. The economist will engage in the administration of loans, provide technical assistance (TA), and deliver non-lending products and services (NLPS) aimed at fostering fiscal and sector reforms. The position requires a proactive approach to strategic planning, project identification, and documentation in various areas such as fiscal management, public expenditure, and regional trade integration. The economist will also mentor junior team members and support policy dialogues with government officials to enhance public sector management and government capacity.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Public Sector Economist include: supporting PSMG's strategic and operational work on public sector management reforms; leading or contributing to project identification, preparation, appraisal, and documentation; engaging with diverse clients and mentoring colleagues; facilitating policy dialogue with government officials; leading the development and administration of loan and TA projects; participating in country teams and providing inputs for Country Partnership Strategies; coordinating with other sectors and departments for collaborative efforts; reviewing portfolio performance and preparing projects; leading economic and thematic work on public sector management; managing knowledge products and services; conducting training and conferences; and managing the performance of reporting staff while ensuring their ongoing learning and development.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in economics, finance, public policy, or related fields, preferably at the post-graduate level or its equivalent. A minimum of 6 years of relevant professional experience in public sector management at both national and sub-national levels is required, ideally gained in a reputable research institution or multilateral agency. Additionally, candidates must have at least two years of relevant experience outside ADB within the past five years. Experience as an ADB-engaged consultant or contractor is considered as experience outside of ADB. The ideal candidate should demonstrate flexibility and a willingness to learn about new and emerging issues within the public and financial sectors, as well as possess international experience working in development across multiple countries.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this 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 policy issues.

Experience:
The position requires at least 6 years of relevant professional experience in public sector management, with a focus on both national and sub-national levels. Candidates should have experience working in reputable research institutions or multilateral agencies, and at least two years of relevant experience outside of ADB within the last five years is mandatory. This experience should include steering projects that link public sector management with poverty reduction and demonstrate a capacity for leading policy dialogue and project delivery.

Languages:
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to ADB member countries, enhancing the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This 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 occasionally undertake short-term assignments in other departments or offices as required. ADB offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including housing and education allowances, expatriate benefits, relocation assistance, retirement plans, medical and health benefits, paid leave, and staff development opportunities. ADB is committed to ensuring that all employees are treated with respect and given equal opportunities in an inclusive environment.