Senior Sustainable Finance 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 50 of them located in the Asia and Pacific region. The organization is dedicated to alleviating poverty and promoting sustainable development through financial assistance, knowledge sharing, and partnerships. ADB's mission is to create a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while continuously working to eradicate extreme poverty. ADB employs a diverse workforce and is committed to providing equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their background. The organization operates in multiple countries across the Asia-Pacific region, providing support for various development projects and initiatives.

Job Overview:
As a Senior Sustainable Finance Specialist at ADB, you will play a crucial role in advancing sustainable finance initiatives within the financial sector of Developing Member Countries (DMCs). Your primary responsibility will be to develop and implement strategies that promote sustainable finance, which includes areas such as banking, capital markets, and public-private partnerships. You will work closely with regional teams and other specialists to formulate finance sector policies that support sustainable projects. This position requires a deep understanding of sustainable finance trends and the ability to create innovative financing solutions, such as green bonds and sustainability-linked bonds. You will also be responsible for leading knowledge management efforts, developing capacity-building programs, and fostering partnerships with various stakeholders to enhance ADB's impact in sustainable finance. Your role will involve significant collaboration with government agencies, industry partners, and other development organizations to ensure the successful implementation of sustainable finance strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee the development of sustainable finance strategies for the finance sector in DMCs, including engagement with relevant government agencies and Resident Missions.
• Provide technical expertise in structuring and implementing innovative financing approaches to catalyze investments for sustainable finance projects.
• Lead efforts to explore industry trends, regulations, and best practices in sustainable finance, ensuring alignment with ADB's goals.
• Develop implementation plans, conduct feasibility studies, and revise existing frameworks to incorporate sustainable finance principles.
• Maintain communication with senior government officials and represent the Financial Sector in high-level meetings.
• Promote collaboration across ADB departments to integrate global best practices in finance sector development.
• Lead knowledge management initiatives, including capacity development programs and knowledge-sharing events.
• Foster partnerships with multilateral development banks, donors, and other stakeholders to enhance knowledge and best practices in sustainable finance.
• Prepare Country Partnership Strategies and Country Operations Business Plans, providing strategic support for expanding ADB's sustainable finance portfolio. 1
• Ensure quality assurance and compliance across finance sector lending and non-lending products. 1
• Coach and mentor team members, providing guidance and feedback on performance.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the Senior Sustainable Finance Specialist position, candidates must possess a Master's Degree or equivalent in Finance, Economics, or related fields. Alternatively, a University degree combined with at least 5 years of specialized experience relevant to the position may be considered. Candidates should have a minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience in finance sector development, with a strong understanding of the Asia-Pacific region and international experience in multiple countries. Demonstrated expertise in emerging areas of finance, particularly sustainable, climate, and nature financing, is essential. Candidates should have significant expertise in ADB's operations within the finance sector or across multiple areas, with a proven ability to lead projects and share knowledge effectively. Strong communication skills in English, both oral and written, are required, along with excellent relationship management capabilities and a client-oriented approach.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a Master's Degree or equivalent in Finance, Economics, or a related field. A University degree combined with at least 5 years of specialized experience relevant to the position may also be acceptable. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in financial principles and practices, particularly in relation to sustainable finance and development.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 10 years of relevant professional experience in finance sector development, with a focus on sustainable finance initiatives. This experience should include international exposure and work in various countries, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the finance sector's dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region. Additionally, candidates must have at least two years of relevant experience outside ADB within the past five years, which can include roles as a consultant or contractor.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills required for effective interaction with stakeholders. While English is the primary language of communication, knowledge of additional languages relevant to the Asia-Pacific region may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position 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 be required to undertake short-term assignments in other groups or departments as needed. ADB offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package, including paid leave, medical and health benefits, life insurance, retirement plans, and housing allowances if applicable. The organization encourages applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women, and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment.