Social Development Specialist (Vulnerable Groups)

Senior Social Development Specialist (Vulnerable Groups) Job Vacancy | Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Reference Number: 230289

Position Level: IS 5

Department: Office of Safeguards

Location: Asian Development Bank Headquarters

Date Posted: Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Closing Date: Tuesday, October 10, 2023 11:59 p.m. (2359 Manila Time, 0800 GMT)

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This is a fixed term appointment with option to renew for an initial period of 3 years following Section 3.1 (b) of Administrative Order No. 2.01 ('Recruitment and Appointment'). This appointment is not convertible to a regular appointment. After the initial fixed period, ADB has the option to renew the appointment for up to three years or allow it to expire.

This position has been created as part of the Workforce Rebalancing Framework, which is a multiyear initiative (2022-2027) aimed at increasing in-house expertise in key operational areas that was previously sourced from consultants through ADB's technical assistance.

The goal is to strengthen in-house expertise to enhance the quality of ADB's policy dialogue, operations, and knowledge solutions delivery by collaborating closely with DMC clients. Expected candidates are seasoned experts with strong field experience who can lead policy dialogue and project work with emphasis on providing knowledge solutions.

This is a re-advertisement. Previous applicants need not apply. Applications received in response to previous posting will be considered together with applications received in response to this advertisement.

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 positions will be with The Office of Safeguards (OSFG). OSFG was established to implement and monitor ADB's safeguards policy and procedures.

Job Purpose

The Senior Social Development Specialist (Vulnerable Groups) will lead the implementation of ADB environment and social safeguards policy and requirements for disadvantaged and vulnerable groups and gender. The incumbent will provide advice and support to ADB operations on the risks and mitigation measures to address vulnerabilities and gender in ADB financed projects. The position will report to the Director, OSFG, and will supervise National staff and Administrative staff.

Responsibilities

• Policies, Strategy, and Frameworks: Lead efforts to support the implementation of ADB's commitments on disadvantaged and vulnerable groups and gender in close cooperation with the Social Development thematic group, Gender thematic group, NGO and Civil Society Center, social safeguards network and the operations departments. Assist in policy and strategy formulation. Prepare guidelines, handbooks, and staff instructions and electronic and web-based materials. Undertake reviews and prepare progress reports on the implementation of policy requirements in ADB operations.
• Guidance and Advisory Function: Review project/program concepts papers and Report and Recommendation of the President (RRPs) to assess the extent to which vulnerability and gender requirements and other related issues exist and provide advice and assistance to project teams to address any opportunities and manage direct or contextual risks. Participate in activities to support operations departments in policy dialogue and country programming. Work closely with social development, gender, and safeguard specialists to support social impact assessments for project preparation. Review loan agreements and procurement documents to ensure appropriate inclusion of provisions on disadvantaged and vulnerable groups.
• Knowledge Sharing and Partnerships: Act as institutional resource person on vulnerability and gender. Lead the design and conduct of training and capacity development for ADB staff and executing agencies. Prepare targeted knowledge products to raise awareness and promote best practices. Promote partnerships to share knowledge and experience, including liaising with other multilateral financing institutions, and relevant institutions.
• Staff Supervision: Take the role of mentor to develop capabilities/potential of reporting staff. Supervise the performance of reporting staff, providing clear direction and regular monitoring and feedback on performance, and ensuring the staff's ongoing learning and development.

Qualifications Relevant Experience & Requirements

Master's degree, or equivalent in applied social sciences or relevant fields. Alternatively, a bachelor's degree in related fields, combined with 5 years of relevant professional experience can be considered. Minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience including international experience working in several countries. Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English is required. Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of gender, disability, child protection, social inclusion, and sexual orientation and gender identity issues in several Asia-Pacific countries.

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.