Public Sector Economist - (260921)
Join Our Mission to Foster Prosperity in AsiaAre you ready to make a lasting impact on 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 RelationshipThe position of Public Sector Economist is assigned to the Public Sector Management and Governance Sector Cluster (PSMG) within Sectors Department 3 (SD3). 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, Public Sector Management and Governance and will supervise junior team members.Your RoleAs a Public Sector Economist, you will support the formulation and articulation of public sector policies, strategies, and public management issues. You will engage with ADB member countries and support administration of loans, provide technical assistance (TA), and non-lending products and services (NLPS) to grow fiscal and sector reforms.You will:Support PSMG's strategic and operational work on public sector management reforms, including project identification, preparation, appraisal, and documentation, in areas such as fiscal management, debt, public expenditure, state-owned enterprises, digitalization, decentralization, private sector investment, and regional trade integration.Lead or contribute to strategic planning, develop core expertise in new areas, and create solutions to all partners.Support teams and colleagues in adapting to the cultural and business norms of diverse clients and country situations and mentor colleagues in the delivery of policy-based programs and other projects.Support policy dialogue with government officials and other partners to improve public sector management and enhance government capacity while managing debt and creating more opportunities for private sector investment.Lead the development, processing and administration of loan and TA projects in public sector management for governments at all levels in DMCs.Participate in country teams and provide or peer review inputs for Country Partnership Strategies, Country Operations and Country Programming/Portfolio Review Missions MOUs. Participate in interdepartmental working groups on public sector management issues.Coordinate with other sectors and departments for OneADB collaboration to improve development impact.Coordinate with other development partners and international agencies to improve assessments and development impact.Support in the review of portfolio performance and preparation of projects to promote quality and improve portfolio performance. Lead in providing guidance in identification and implementation of actions items needed to resolve implementation problems.Lead economic, thematic, and sector work on public sector management, support evaluations, and develop knowledge products on sustainable development, inclusive growth, green public financial management, poverty reduction, and macroeconomic management in DMCs.Handle closure of projects and completion processes and reports, and conduct consultations with governments on results and lessons learned.Contribute to advocacy, training, and knowledge-building on public sector management, while promoting solutions, technology, best practices, and cross-country insights to address development challenges in DMCs.Manage knowledge products and services work including peer reviews for the sector.Conduct internal and external training and conferences and other activities for advocacy, distribution, and knowledge building in the area of public sector managementManage the performance of reporting staff, providing clear direction and regular monitoring and feedback on performance. Ensure the ongoing learning and development of reporting staff.
You will needA University degree in economics, finance, public policy or other related fields; preferably at post-graduate level or its equivalent.At least 6 years of relevant professional experience in public sector management at the national and sub-national level in a reputed research institution or in a multilateral agency.Two years of relevant experience outside ADB within the past five years is required. Years as an ADB-engaged consultant or contractor are considered experience outside of ADB.Steer ideas and projects that strengthen links between public sector management and poverty reduction.Demonstrate flexibility and aptitude to learn new and emerging issues/topics within the public sector and financial sector.International experience working in development in several countries.Excellent written and verbal communications skills in English.Please refer to the link for ADB Competency Framework for TI1. BenefitsADB offers a rewarding salary 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 (if applicable)Relocation (if applicableRetirement planMedical and health benefitsPaid leave (including parental)Life and other insurance plansStaff developmentAdditional InformationThis appointment is open to internal and external applicants.This position is crucial to the Workforce Rebalancing Framework (2022-2027), a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing ADB's in-house expertise previously sourced from the external workforce. The role seeks seasoned experts with substantial field experience capable of leading policy dialogue, and projects focused on delivering knowledge solutions. Successful applicants may occasionally undertake short-term assignments in other departments or offices, when required.This is a fixed term appointment with option to renew, initially for a period of up to 3 years, or up to the Normal Retirement Date (NRD), whichever comes earlier, for the purpose(s) and conditions determined by ADB, in accordance with Administrative Order No. 2.01 (Recruitment and Appointment). After the initial fixed-term period, ADB may choose to renew the appointment for up to an additional 3 years or not renewed. This decision will be made in the overall interest of ADB, based on factors including but not limited to the requirement of Staff's particular blend of skills and experience for the medium-term work program of the organizational unit, sufficient funding to cover the renewed period, and Staff's performance and suitability for employment. There is no limit to the number of renewals up to NRD. However, this appointment is not convertible to a regular appointment.About UsADB 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. #LI-Onsite
: Asian Development Bank Headquarters-Philippines-Manila
Department: Sectors Department 3
Division: Public Sector Management and Governance Sector Office
Staff Category: Technical International (HQ)
Position Level: TI1
: 25-Sep-2026, 10:10:12 AM
: 09-Oct-2026, 3:59:00 PM

Working together with our partners, we help solve Asia and the Pacific’s most complex development challenges