Markets Development Advisory Specialist

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 Markets Development Advisory Specialist is assigned to the Advisory Division 2 (OMDA2) within the Office of Markets Development and Public-Private Partnership (OMDP). You will be outposted to the South Pacific Subregional Office in Suva, Fiji (SPSO) for an initial assignment of three years. After this period, subject to business needs, the role may be assigned at our Headquarters in Manila, Philippines or at another resident mission office. Relocation is required. All reasonable relocation expenses will be covered.

You will report to the Regional Director, SPSO and to the Director, OMDA2, and will oversee junior team members.

Your Role

As a Markets Development Advisory Specialist, you will contribute in (i) developing and delivering bankable projects and transactions for private sector development (PSD), including public-private partnerships (PPP), through advisory operations and technical assistance; (ii) enhancing enable environment for PSD in ADB's developing member countries (DMCs); (iii) formulating and implementing policies and strategies to implement OMDP's operations; and (iv) external and internal relations, stakeholder coordination, and knowledge management activities to support PSD. You will support origination, processing and implementation of transaction advisory services (TAS) mandates and other transaction development activities to support PSD in collaboration with relevant departments including regional and solutions departments. You will also support ADB's PSD-related strategies and operations. You will work on infrastructure finance and PPP. You will also work on emerging opportunities and innovative solutions for PSD including carbon credit, climate financing programs, nature-based solutions, and opportunities and solutions related to state-owned enterprises and assets. You will support operations across multiple countries in the Pacific due to the regional scope of the position.

You will:

• Help implement OMDP's vision, goals, work plan and development strategies output following Strategy 2030.
• Contribute to the development of the PSD shift following R99-22 (Organizational Review: A New Operating Model to Accelerate ADB's Transformation Toward Strategy 2030 and Beyond).
• Support the identification, structuring and delivery of bankable transactions for PSD through TAS mandates and technical assistance. It will include marketing, negotiation and due diligence of PPP- and PSD-related issues and projects in DMCs.
• Support the identification of opportunities for PSD upstream or market development activities. These activities include developing or reforming policies and regulations, strengthening institutions, building capacity, and screening potential projects and programs. They help deliver transaction advisory operations and implement PSD upstream or market development activities.
• Help with the internal process for approval and implementation of TAS mandates and market development activities.
• Support the selection and management of consultants who support project teams, including designing their terms of reference.
• Help promote cooperation with other institutions.
• Undertake market research activities, identifying constraints and providing solutions for promoting PSD in ADB's DMCs.
• Contribute to OMDP's knowledge management activities and help establish and maintain database for knowledge sharing with clients.
• Help prepare country partnership strategies (CPS) including the preparation of private sector diagnostics and PSD plans.
• Contribute to country management teams and provide inputs and feedback to support ADB's PSD operations following the framework for ADB's support to the relevant DMCs.
• Support "OneADB" approaches to projects and programs alongside other regional and solutions departments.
• Coordinate on regional development and project implementation with the regional departments, sector departments, Climate Change and Sustainable Development Department, and Private Sector Operations Department maintaining a feedback loop for mutual benefits.
• Contribute to coordination and cooperation within OMDP on developments, new opportunities, and challenges, and suggest possible solutions.
• Manage the performance of teams and individuals, providing clear direction, regular monitoring and constructive feedback on performance.

Qualifications

You will need:

• A university degree or equivalent in business administration, economics, finance or other relevant fields preferably at post-graduate level or its equivalent.
• At least 6 years of relevant professional experience developing infrastructure projects including PPP transactions, and climate financing.
• Hands-on experience structuring project finance transactions and providing advisory services in multiple sectors and countries including negotiation and coordination.
• In-depth knowledge about PPP and financial market products and due diligence experience implementing infrastructure or climate.
• Network with financial communities including export credit agencies and investment/commercial banks.
• High proficiency in English, both written and spoken.
• International experience working in several countries.
• Please refer to the link for ADB Competency Framework for TI1.

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 and family leave)
• Life and other insurance plans, including dental and vision insurance
• Staff development

Additional Information

This 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 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.