Principal Environment Specialist

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 from the Asia and Pacific region. ADB's mission is to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development through financial assistance, knowledge sharing, and partnerships. The organization is headquartered in Manila, Philippines, and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific. ADB is committed to eradicating extreme poverty and enhancing the quality of life for people in the region, aligning its efforts with its Strategy 2030 framework, which emphasizes sustainable and inclusive growth.

Job Overview:
The Principal Environment Specialist will play a crucial role in the Climate Change, Resilience, and Environment Cluster (CCRE) within the Climate Change and Sustainable Development Department (CCSD) at ADB. This position focuses on biodiversity and ecosystem management, where the specialist will lead initiatives that contribute to ADB's Organizational Resilience. The role involves providing expert advice, technical support, and strategic guidance on biodiversity and ecosystem management, including conservation, restoration, and sustainable management of natural resources. The specialist will be responsible for expanding ADB's biodiversity and ecosystem management portfolio, guiding the development and implementation of strategic documents, and ensuring that ADB's projects are informed by the best available scientific and policy-relevant expertise. The position requires collaboration with various teams and stakeholders to promote nature-positive investments and integrate environmental considerations into development agendas.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal Environment Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Strategic Development: Leading the expansion of ADB's biodiversity and ecosystem management portfolio, guiding the development of approach papers and operational plans, and conducting assessments related to biodiversity initiatives.
• Technical Leadership and Support: Developing and implementing technical assistance related to biodiversity management, ensuring project teams are informed by scientific expertise, and creating financial mechanisms for nature-positive projects.
• Knowledge Management: Synthesizing scientific knowledge, developing knowledge products, and conducting capacity development programs for project staff and stakeholders.
• Partnership Management: Establishing global and regional partnerships to enhance knowledge and best practices on environmental issues, providing corporate knowledge support, and contributing to corporate initiatives on the environment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree or equivalent in Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, 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 at least 12 years of relevant professional experience, including international work experience in the Asia-Pacific region. Demonstrated expertise in biodiversity and ecosystem management, knowledge of international science and policy processes, and the ability to lead multidisciplinary teams are essential. Strong analytical, conceptual, and strategic thinking skills, along with excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, are required. Interpersonal skills are also crucial for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's Degree or equivalent in Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, or a related field. Candidates with a university degree and significant specialized experience may also be considered, highlighting the importance of both formal education and practical experience in the field.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 12 years of relevant professional experience, with a strong emphasis on international work experience within the Asia-Pacific region. Candidates should have demonstrated expertise in biodiversity and ecosystem management, showcasing their ability to apply this knowledge within a development context. Experience in leading teams and managing projects is also essential, as well as a proven track record of working collaboratively with various stakeholders.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with excellent written and verbal communication skills required for effective collaboration and reporting. While English is the primary language of communication, knowledge of additional languages relevant to the Asia-Pacific region may be considered advantageous but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified at the TI3 level, indicating a seniority level that requires significant expertise and leadership capabilities. ADB offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package, including paid leave, medical and health benefits, life insurance, staff development opportunities, a retirement plan, and housing and education allowances for applicable staff. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background, and particularly welcomes applications from women. The closing date for applications is set for April 14, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. Manila Time.