Director, Safeguards

Job Posting Organization:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is an international development finance institution established to foster economic growth and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. Founded in 1966, ADB has grown to include 69 member countries, with 49 of these being from the Asia and Pacific region. The organization is dedicated to alleviating poverty and promoting sustainable development through financial assistance, knowledge sharing, and partnerships. ADB operates in various sectors including infrastructure, education, health, and environmental sustainability, and aims to create a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and Pacific. ADB's mission is guided by its Strategy 2030, which focuses on eradicating extreme poverty and enhancing the quality of life for all citizens in the region. ADB is headquartered in Manila, Philippines, and employs a diverse workforce committed to its mission, ensuring equal opportunities for all individuals regardless of their background.

Job Overview:
The Director, Safeguards position is a critical role within the Office of Safeguards (OSFG) at ADB. This position is responsible for providing policy oversight and leading the periodic updates of ADB's environmental and social safeguards policy. The Director will ensure that projects financed by ADB adhere to high technical quality and meet international best practices. The role involves providing leadership and technical guidance to staff on environmental and social standards, policy implementation, and capacity-building for developing member countries and private sector clients. The Director will also oversee the integration of safeguards into ADB's operations and ensure compliance with environmental and social requirements. This position requires a strategic mindset to advise ADB management on safeguard policy issues and to lead policy reviews that align with international good practices and the evolving needs of the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
As the Director, Safeguards, you will be responsible for a wide range of duties including: leading and providing strategic advice to ADB Management on environmental and social safeguard policy issues; managing advisory support to address complaints and grievances regarding ADB financed projects; overseeing the design and processing of technical assistance and related country support programs; leading a team of technical experts to support ADB Project Teams on high-risk projects; managing the performance of teams and individuals; developing an inclusive and client-oriented working environment; overseeing the implementation of ADB's Integrated Safeguard Management System; and managing relationships with external partners on safeguard matters. You will also be responsible for budget management and resource allocation to deliver approved work plans, ensuring that ADB's safeguard policies are effectively communicated and implemented across all projects.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this position, candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent in engineering, environmental sciences, environmental economics, social sciences, or related fields. Alternatively, a university degree combined with at least 10 years of specialized experience relevant to the position may be considered. Candidates should have at least 15 years of relevant professional experience, including international work experience in environmental management and social safeguards. Strong communication skills are essential, as the role involves liaising with senior officials in client governments and managing teams effectively. Experience in communicating complex technical concepts to diverse audiences is also required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as engineering, environmental sciences, environmental economics, or social sciences. A university degree with significant relevant experience may also be considered. The educational background should provide a strong foundation in environmental and social safeguards, as well as the ability to understand and implement complex policies and procedures.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 15 years of relevant professional experience, including significant international work experience in environmental management and social safeguards. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing teams and projects, as well as experience in dealing with high-level stakeholders, including government officials and senior management. The ability to navigate complex organizational structures and communicate effectively with diverse audiences is crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication at ADB. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the Asia-Pacific region would be considered an asset, enhancing the ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders and clients.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term appointment for a managerial position, initially for a period of three years, with the possibility of renewal for up to an additional three years. The appointment is not convertible to a regular appointment. ADB offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package, including paid leave, medical and health benefits, life and other insurance plans, staff development opportunities, a retirement plan, and housing and education allowances for applicable expatriate staff. ADB is committed to creating an inclusive environment and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women.