Principal Operations Specialist

Join Our Mission to Foster Prosperity in Asia

Are you ready to make a difference in the future of Asia and be a catalyst for positive change? We are thrilled to offer a unique opportunity to become an important part of the prestigious Asian Development Bank (ADB). At ADB, our mission is simple yet powerful: to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region.

Organizational Setting and Reporting Relationship

The position of Principal Operations Specialist is assigned to the Operations Coordination Unit (PAOC) within the Pacific Department. You will be based at our Headquarters in Manila, Philippines and relocation is required. All reasonable relocation expenses will be covered.

You will report to the Regional Head, Operations Coordination and will oversee junior team members.

Your Role

As a Principal Operations Specialist, you will oversee PARD's portfolio management; lead the periodic review of the progress of loans, grants, and technical assistance (TA) projects; and strengthen project implementation performance. You will also support ADB's engagement with Pacific regional institutions, and design and implement regional initiatives.

You Will

Portfolio Management

• Lead portfolio management activities, including strategic approach to portfolio management, trend analysis, portfolio target setting, systemic issues analysis, and measures to improve overall portfolio and project/program performance in coordination with the sector offices and PARD field offices.
• Lead the portfolio team in preparing inputs, briefings for corporate meetings, and reports (e.g., Operations Review Meetings, Annual Reports, Strategic Business Outlook, and others)
• Coordinate with PARD Country Operations Heads and country teams to develop and maintain consistent approach to portfolio management, country operations missions, and transfer of learnings from project implementation to new project and program designs.
• Guide on complex operational matters, including procurement, contract administration issues, safeguards, risk management, and advise on strategies to address implementation challenges.
• Conduct critical review and quality assurance of (i) new operations documentation focusing on design soundness, resource adequacy, implementation readiness, implementation arrangements, and soundness of design and monitoring frameworks; and (ii) ongoing operations focusing on adequacy of justifications for changes and soundness of implementation decisions.
• Participate, and where needed, lead training events through PARD's overall capacity building initiatives.
• Support PARD Management in various internal and external stakeholder engagement events, including Board engagements, business outreach, and partner relationship management activities, seminars, workshop and training events.
  
  

Regional Cooperation and Integration

• Contribute and, where needed, lead PARD's engagement with key Pacific regional institutions, including the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, Secretariat of the Pacific Community, Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme, and Council of Regional Organisations of the Pacific agencies.
• Support coordination of ADB participation and senior management engagement in key Pacific regional meetings and forums.
• Support analytical work, diagnostics, and thematic assessments related to regional cooperation and integration (RCI) and trade facilitation in the Pacific.
• Help integrate RCI priorities into country and regional operations, in coordination with sector offices and Climate Change and Sustainable Development Department (CCSD).
• Contribute to the development, processing, and implementation of regional loan and TA projects, in coordination with Sectors Departments and CCSD.
  
  

Other Responsibilities

• Supervise and mentor reporting staff, overseeing performance management, coaching, and development across portfolio management and RCI-related work, as assigned.
  
  

You Will Need

• Master's degree, or equivalent, in economics, engineering, business administration, or a related field; or a university degree and at least 5 years specialized experience relevant to the position can be considered.
• At least 12 years work experience in project development and implementation, including 10 years of experience working with development organizations in several countries in project, program, and TA preparation, processing, administration and closure. Experience in Pacific DMCs is preferred.
• Proven skills in procurement, contract management, risk management, and high-stake coordination are preferred.
• Extensive experience working with senior government officials and development partners, including leading high-level meetings, consultations, and conferences.
• Please refer to the link for ADB Competency Framework for TI3.
  
  

Benefits

ADB offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package . The salary will be based on ADB's standards and comparator markets, taking into account your qualifications and experience.

• Housing and education allowance (if applicable)
• Expatriate benefits (for international staff)
• Retirement plan
• Medical and health benefits
• Paid leave (including parental)
• Life and other insurance plans
• Staff development
  
  

Additional Information

This appointment is open to internal and external applicants.

This is a fixed-term appointment for an initial fixed period of 3 years. At the end of the initial period, this appointment may, at the option of ADB, be extended once for up to 2 years, converted to a regular appointment, or ended on its expiration date. This decision will be made in the overall interest of ADB that: (a) it will require Staff's particular blend of skills and experience in the foreseeable future; and (b) Staff's performance is satisfactory and they are suitable for further employment.

About Us

ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is headquartered in Manila and owned by 69 members—50 from the region.

ADB only hires nationals of its 69 members .

To view ADB Organizational Chart, please click here .

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.

Visit ADB Careers FAQ for more information.


Primary Location: Asian Development Bank Headquarters-Philippines-Manila

Division: Operations Coordination Unit, PARD

Staff Category: Technical International (HQ)

Job Posting: 11-Jun-2026, 1:28:34 PM03-Jul-2026, 9:29:00 PM

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