Social Development Specialist (Core Labor Standards)

Job Vacancy | Thursday, June 8, 2023

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

ADB will be rolling-out its operating model which may result in the change of department/group and/or reporting arrangement(s). By proceeding with your application, you acknowledge and accept the possibility of such changes resulting from the new operating model (NOM).

This is a special fixed-term appointment for a period of three (3) years following Section 3.1 (c.) of Administrative Order No. 2.01 (“Recruitment and Appointment’). This appointment is not convertible to a regular appointment. It may be extended on exceptional basis for a further fixed period at the option of ADB. This appointment is open to internal and external applicants.

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 Safeguards Division (SDSS) within the Sustainable Development and Climate Change Department (SDCC). SDCC provides leadership, innovation, and knowledge sharing for ADB’s sector and thematic work. SDSS provides policy oversight and technical guidance and provides training and capacity support to ADB operations and ADB clients on the implementation of the ADB Safeguard Policy Statement (SPS).

To view ADB Organizational Chart, please click here.

Job Purpose

The Social Development Specialist (Core Labor Standards) supports the implementation of Asian Development Bank (ADB)’s social protection strategy with regard to international core labor standards (CLS). The incumbent will provide advice and support to ADB operations to help ensure compliance with international recognized core labor standards and national labor laws. The incumbent will report to Director, Safeguards Division and will supervise National Staff and Administrative Staff.

Responsibilities

Policies, Strategy, and Frameworks

  • Lead efforts to support the implementation of ADB’s commitments to core labor standards, 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 relevant to core labor standards and assess country circumstances.
  • Prepare on a highly selective basis guidelines, handbooks, and staff instructions and electronic and web-based materials.
  • Undertake reviews and prepare progress reports on the implementation of CLS in ADB operations.

Guidance and Advisory Function

  • Review project/program concepts papers, preparatory technical assistance (PPTAs) papers and Report and Recommendation of the President (RRPs) to assess the extent to which core labor standards and other related labor 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.
  • Participate, on a selective basis, in operation support missions to assist project teams to address relevant issues in complex and sensitive projects, and support stakeholder consultations.
  • Review loan agreements and procurement documents to ensure appropriate inclusion of provisions on CLS.

Knowledge Sharing and Partnerships

  • Act as institutional resource person on core labor standards
  • Participate in 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.
  • Participate in and contribute to relevant internal and external training and conferences and other activities for advocacy, dissemination, and knowledge building.
  • Promote partnerships to share knowledge and experience, including liaising with other multilateral financing institutions, the International Labor Organization, internationally recognized labor unions, and employer associations.

Staff Supervision

  • Supervise the performance of reporting staff, providing clear direction and regular monitoring and feedback on performance; and ensures the on-going learning and development of reporting staff.

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 8 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 labor issues in several Asia-Pacific countries.
  • Please refer to the link for ADB Competency Framework for IS4

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.