Ombuds Programs Officer

Overview

Asian Development Bank (ADB) is an international development finance institution headquartered in Manila, Philippines and is composed of 68 members, 49 of which are from the Asia and Pacific region. ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. ADB combines finance, knowledge, and partnerships to fulfill its expanded vision under its Strategy 2030. ADB only hires nationals of its 68 members.

The position is assigned in the Office of the Ombudsperson (OOMP). OOMP provides strictly confidential and impartial consultation, facilitation, informal mediation and conflict prevention and resolution services to all members of the ADB community. It compiles anonymous aggregate data and other findings to inform management and other decision-makers of problem areas and trends that may require attention. It makes recommendations to and collaborates with decision makers and key stakeholders to resolve systemic issues and recommends organizational changes when appropriate. OOMP has established itself as an integral part of ADB's organizational culture with an earned reputation for fairness, problem-solving, and responsiveness, and treating everyone with dignity and respect. The office also plays an active role in diversity and inclusion, integrity, and ethics issues.

Job Purpose

The Senior Ombuds Programs Officer will (i) provide ombuds services to all members of the ADB community and assist in the prevention and resolution of workplace concerns in accordance with the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics of the International Ombuds Association; (ii) assist with the curriculum development and implementation of specialized training, awareness raising, and educational program informed by the office's compiled data and its analysis of problematic trends and patterns of areas of concerns; and (iii) provide support to the outreach, reporting functions, and strategic planning for the Office of the Ombudsperson. This incumbent will report to the Ombudsperson and will supervise administrative staff.

Responsibilities

• Supports the members of the ADB community in addressing complex and sensitive workplace concerns while providing confidential, impartial, independent, and informal conflict management services.
• Ensures all ombuds-related activities adhere to the International Ombuds Association's Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.
• Performs the technical aspects of the ombuds profession, including (but not limited to): Conflict mapping, Mediation, Active listening and reframing, Negotiation, Facilitation, Conflict management coaching, Conflict analysis, Shuttle diplomacy, Informal fact finding, etc.
• Assists with the development of specialized training programs for targeted audiences based on trend and data analysis.
• Undertakes research on systemic issues and policies brought to the attention of OOMP.
• Oversees from conceptualization to the implementation of the final details of targeted conflict prevention and resolution programs focused on the needs of the team.
• Provides conflict management training.
• Supervises consultants and contractors.
• Manages all aspects of OOMP budget.
• Develops, contributes, and executes awareness and promotional materials of the office, including outreach activities and increases opportunities for engagement in ADB headquarters and field offices.
• Fosters a collegial and collaborative relationship with external ombuds programs and represents ADB OOMP in meetings of: The International Ombuds Association; Asia Pacific Regional Advisory Committee of the International Ombudsman Association; and Ombudsmen and Mediators of the United Nations and Related International Organizations.
• Offers valuable contributions and inputs during the development of a project and provides analytical support for various concerns.
• Provides input or comments on policies and practices in ADB and other international financial institutions, when requested.
• Uploads relevant statistics and information in the OOMP database and case-tracking system.
• Analyzes anonymous aggregate data for deeper analysis to identify systemic issues and substantiate reliable data storytelling.
• Analyzes case statistics; manages case review discussions and supports the development of relevant case studies for senior management and the broader ADB community.
• Helps develop recommendations to senior management and other decision makers based upon trends analysis and other findings.
• In the absence of the Ombudsperson, oversees the ombuds function and its services to all members of the ADB community.

Qualifications Relevant Experience & Requirements

• Bachelor's degree, preferably major in psychology, management, industrial psychology, organizational behavior, law, public or business administration; preferably with master's degree or equivalent.
• At least 10 years of relevant professional experience and at least 5 years of supervisory experience.
• Ability to exercise sound and independent judgment while demonstrating strong emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills in managing complex and sensitive situations.
• Ability to work with discretion while at all times maintaining the strictest level of confidentiality.
• Ability to apply critical thinking, risk awareness, and creativity when exploring problem solving options to help manage workplace conflicts and concerns.
• Ability to develop collaborative and mutually beneficial partnerships.
• Experience in training, conflict management, mediation, coaching, and/or negotiation.
• Ability to conduct oneself with the highest level of integrity, poise, and professionalism at all times.
• The selectee will be required to complete the Foundations of Organizational Ombudsman training organized by the International Ombuds Association.
• The selectee will be required to undergo specialized conflict resolution training related to the organizational ombuds profession (e.g., alternative dispute resolution, mediation, negotiation, coaching), and other relevant programs.
• Ability to quickly learn and familiarize oneself with organization-wide rules, policies, and procedures.
• Knowledge and proficiency of relevant office technology applications and specialized database and case tracking systems.
• Strong organizational skills with ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects while remaining on schedule and within budget.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Adept at strategic planning, budgeting, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Have a sense of humor.

General Considerations

The selected candidate, if new to ADB, is appointed for an initial term of 3 years. ADB offers competitive remuneration and a comprehensive benefits package. Actual appointment salary will be based on ADB's standards and computation, taking into account the selected individual's qualifications and experience. ADB seeks to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities to work in an inclusive environment. ADB encourages all qualified candidates to apply regardless of their racial, ethnic, religious and cultural background, gender, sexual orientation or disabilities. Women are highly encouraged to apply. Please note that the actual level and salary will be based on qualifications of the selected candidate.