Environmental and Social Safeguards Specialist

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 Environmental and Social Safeguards Specialist will support the implementation of the Safeguards Knowledge Action Plan in ADB. The incumbent will cooperate with the Department of Communications, SDCC’s Knowledge Advisory Services Center and NGO and Civil Society Center, Budget, People, and Management Systems Department ,and other relevant departments on the Safeguards Knowledge Management (KM) agenda; and develop, implement, and support implementing capacity building programs in support of the agenda. The position will report to Director, Safeguards Division and will supervise National Staff and Administrative Staff.

Responsibilities

Operational Advice and Compliance Review

  • Review ADB financed program and projects and advise ADB operations departments on safeguard policy requirements for environmental and social safeguards. Support operations departments to identify necessary mitigation measures and corrective actions, taking into consideration international good practices.
  • Join “OneADB Teams” and conduct safeguard review missions and operation support missions particularly for complex and sensitive projects. 
  • Participate in the review and further development of ADB’s safeguard policy, as well as associated staff instructions and good practice guidance materials for both environment and social safeguards.
  • Enhance ADB’s safeguard monitoring and information systems, through further development of indicators, reporting systems and institutional arrangements.

Safeguards Content Management, Mapping, and Framework Development

  • Lead the development of the safeguards community site, including looking at the opportunities for interoperability other system such as the Integrated Safeguards Management System (ISMS).
  • Lead safeguards work on knowledge mapping and the development of frameworks for content management and governance, knowledge continuity and management of critical tacit knowledge and ensuring competency needs are aligned with the safeguards NOM and new Safeguards policy.

Safeguards Lessons Application

  • Review and propose improvements in existing processes for lesson learning, lesson capture and reuse, and for thematic analysis.
  • Develop processes and systems to ensure that project safeguards lessons are routinely and systematically incorporated into changes in safeguards procedures and requirements (e.g. through guidance notes and checklists); safeguards learning/training products (e.g. knowledge products, case studies, training content) and safeguards knowledge sharing sessions (such as briefings, panels, challenge discussions).

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 sciences or relevant fields or University degree and at least 5 years specialized experience relevant to the position can be considered.
  • Minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience including international work experience.
  • Excellent analytical and communication skills (presentation, facilitation and writing skills
  • Good coordination and project management skills.
  • Experience in developing or managing documentation systems, content management systems or community sites.
  • Experience in developing learning products or knowledge products and/or in delivering Safeguards training.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English is required.
  • Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of environmental, social development and cultural issues and international good practices on knowledge management practices.
  • 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.