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 Planning and Policy Economist is assigned to the Operations Planning and Coordination Division (SPOP) within the Strategy, Policy, and Partnerships Department (SPD). 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 Director, SPOP and will oversee junior team members.
Your Role
As a Principal Planning and Policy Economist, you will provide advice on ADBs overall operations planning and coordination issues. These include regular ordinary capital resources, concessional resources, the Asian Development Fund (ADF), technical assistance (TA) and cofinancing operations from a perspective of financing resources and development products. It covers loans, grants, equity investments, guarantees, trade-financing and advisory services in both sovereign and nonsovereign operations. You will take a lead role in preparing papers for mid-term review and replenishment meetings, coordinating with donors, and implementing the ADF, as member of the team. Additionally, you will be the SPD focal for implementing the debt deferral clauses.
You Will
- Lead the implementation of specific windows of the ADF 14 framework, including concessional assistance policy.
- Lead the preparation of specific papers for the ADF 14 mid-term review and ADF 15 replenishment meetings, with the broader ADF team.
- Lead the implementation of the debt deferral clauses, supporting operations teams.
- Contribute to the preparation of the Work Program and Budget Framework, background materials for the Operations Review Meetings, and Asian Development Fund related documents.
- Help establish new financing mechanisms to expand ADBs lending operations to support its corporate priorities, in the context of resource planning and mobilization.
- Review quality of reports, strategies and plans
- Lead the preparation of presentation and other materials for meetings and presentations in areas including ADF and debt deferral clauses.
- Lead and undertake initiatives assigned to SPD and SPOP and action plans.
- Participate in committees, working groups, and task forces assigned to SPD.
- Act as a resource person for internal training and external briefings on ADF policies and procedures.
- Create and lead diverse teams and ensure work quality.
- Oversee the performance of reporting staff, providing clear direction and regular monitoring and feedback on performance and ensures the ongoing learning and development of reporting staff.
You will need:
- Masters Degree, or equivalent, in Economics is preferred; or University degree and at least 5 years specialized experience relevant to the position can be considered
- At least 12 years of relevant professional work experience with a background of knowledge of ADBs operations
- Expertise within a specific area, or breadth across multiple areas with in-depth knowledge of project preparation
- Expertise in economic analysis
- Recognized ability to use and share relevant knowledge to benefit the broader ADB community
- International experience working in several countries with experience in multilateral or bilateral agencys resident missions or field offices
- Recognized ability to lead, exercise supervision, coordination, and planning responsibilities over diverse team
- Written and verbal proficiency in English
- Please refer to the link for ADB Competency Framework for TI3.
Benefits
ADB offers a rewarding salary and a comprehensive benefits package . The salary will be based on ADBs standards and comparator markets, taking into account your qualifications and experience.
- Housing and education allowance (if applicable)
- Expatriate benefits (if applicable)
- Relocation (if applicable)
- 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 Staffs particular blend of skills and experience in the foreseeable future; and (b) Staffs 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 wants 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
Department: Strategy, Policy and Partnerships Department
Division: Operations Planning and Coordination Division, SPD
Staff Category: Technical International (HQ)
Position Level: TI3
Job Posting: 10-Apr-2026, 9:34:27 AM
24-Apr-2026, 11:59:00 PM