Join Our Mission to Foster Prosperity in Asia

Are you ready to make a difference 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 Relationship

The position of Special Project Facilitator is assigned to the Office of the Special Project Facilitator (OSPF). Functions of the Special Project Facilitator and OSPF are described in paragraphs 126 to 129 of the Accountability Mechanism Policy, 2012 (Accountability Mechanism Policy).

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 President and will oversee assigned International and Local Staff.

Your Role

As Special Project Facilitator, you will lead the Office of the Special Project Facilitator (OSPF) in advancing its strategic goals and supporting ADB's broader mission. You will oversee complaint resolution for project-affected individuals, guide operational support to departments, and ensure the office's activities align with ADB policies.

Please note the Accountability Mechanism Policy is undergoing a review currently. Based on the completion of the review process, an updated Accountability Mechanism Policy will be submitted for Board approval in the near future (and likely during the term of the incoming Special Project Facilitator). As a result of the updated Accountability Mechanism Policy among other things, the current structure of the Accountability Mechanism Policy and responsibilities, functions and reporting lines of the Special Project Facilitator and OSPF including as mentioned in this Job Description may also be modified.

You will:

a. Leadership and Strategic Management

• Define and communicate OSPF's vision, goals, strategies, and key result areas according to ADB's institutional goals and global best practices.
• Lead the development of work plans, ensuring high-quality outputs and the achievement of both long-term goals and annual targets.

b. Complaints Management

• Lead the problem-solving function of ADB's accountability mechanism, ensuring engagement with stakeholders.
• Assess the eligibility of complaints submitted by project-affected individuals.
• Facilitate resolution through informal, agreement-based consultations, including listening to concerns, reviewing project context, identifying causes, and guiding parties toward solutions.
• Recommend cost-effective, flexible approaches to address grievances, and report outcomes to ADB leadership, relevant departments, and complainants.
• Oversee the implementation of agreed actions resulting from the consultation process.
• Evaluate and enhance complaint management methodologies to improve responsiveness and impact.

c. Outreach

• Design and conduct outreach programs to different stakeholders.
• Oversee initiatives to familiarize executing agencies (EAs), NGOs, ADB staff with the Accountability Mechanism/ Consultation Phase.

d. Internal Coordination and Knowledge Management

• Coordinate with the Office of the Compliance Review Panel (OCRP) to share information and conduct outreach within ADB and member countries, ensuring alignment with ADB's stakeholder engagement efforts, including those involving civil society groups.
• Coordinate with the OCRP to support information sharing and outreach efforts across ADB and its member countries. Ensure these activities are aligned with ADB's broader engagement initiatives, including those involving project beneficiaries and civil society groups

e. Division Operations Management

• Oversee daily operations and carry out activities designed to improve the overall internal problem solving functions of ADB.
• Inform and provide recommendations to the President of developments, new opportunities, and challenges.
• Undertake the performance management of OSPF, including motivation of staff.
• Manage budget and resource allocation, ensuring efficient allocation and use of resources.

f. Staff Management

• Create and lead diverse teams and ensure the quality of its work.
• Manage the performance of teams and individuals providing clear direction and regular monitoring and feedback on performance.
• Provide mentoring to team and individuals and ensure their ongoing learning and development.

You will need:

• Master's degree, or equivalent, in Economics, Environment, Law, or Social Sciences, or related fields; or University degree in Economics, Environment, Law, or Social Sciences, or related fields and at least 10 years specialized experience relevant to the position can be considered
• At least 20 years of relevant experience working with developing member countries, in social sectors, infrastructure, power, or private sector.
• Ability to deal thoroughly and fairly with complaints.
• Integrity and independence from operations departments of ADB
• Exposure to developmental issues and living conditions in developing countries
• Knowledge of and experience with the operations of ADB, multilateral development organizations or comparable institutions, and/or private sector experience
• Demonstrated competence in the fields of consultative dialogue and other dispute resolution techniques. Mediation skills will be an asset.
• Leadership skills, who can work with staff, Management, Board of Directors, and with external clients, member governments, other international organizations and comparable institutions, civil society, and non-government organizations.
• Ability and willingness to travel to developing countries, including rural areas.
• International experience working in development in several countries.
• Please refer to the link for ADB Competency Framework for Managerial Staff Grade 3 (M3)

Additional Information

This appointment is open to internal and external applicants. Candidate must not have worked in any ADB operations departments for at least 5 years before the appointment.

The Special Project Facilitator will be appointed for a term not exceeding three (3) years, which may be renewable once for another 2 years (subject to any changes in the Accountability Mechanism Policy).

Benefits

ADB 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 applicable)
• Retirement plan
• Medical and health benefits
• Paid leave (including parental)
• Life and other insurance plans
• Staff development

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.

#LI-Onsite