Senior Economist

Job Vacancy | Tuesday, September 16, 2025

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 is assigned in the Regional Cooperation and Operations Coordination Division (SARC) within the South Asia Department (SARD). 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 Regional Head, Regional Cooperation Integration and will oversee Junior team members.

Your Role

As a Senior Economist, you will lead the formulation and articulation of operationally relevant analytical studies on relevant and contemporary development issues in SARD countries, and the regular economics and operations coordination work. You will lead the identification, development, processing, implementation and administration of loans, technical assistance (TA) projects, and provide relevant stakeholders with necessary technical support and knowledge for projects. You will serve as country economist for ADB operations in the Maldives and oversee strategic work on then South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) program.

You will:

• Lead and contribute to the conduct of operationally relevant analytical studies for SARD countries, ensuring the quality of economic analysis and offering strategic advice on high-impact development issues.
• Lead the identification, design, processing and administration of regional technical assistance (RETA) projects by undertaking activities, including gathering inputs from regional stakeholders, organizing sector working group meetings, conducting background research, drafting TA papers, and monitoring projects.
• Lead the economics work for Maldives, including economic monitoring and forecasting work for the Asian Development Outlook (ADO).
• Support assessments of major economic trends and macroeconomic and structural reform policies for South Asian economies.
• Prepare and implement Country Partnership Strategy (CPS), including country diagnostics in line with country's development plans and ADB's medium and long-term strategic frameworks.
• Prepare and contribute to strategic and operational oversight of SASEC program.
• Represent ADB in economic policy dialogue with government officials, development partners, and other stakeholders.
• Maintain strategic partnership with external partners for knowledge and project opportunities. Respond to external inquiries as needed.
• Participate in and contribute to internal and external training and conferences on regional cooperation and other activities for advocacy, dissemination and knowledge building.
• Lead, supervise, and support reporting staff, including their performance and development.

Qualifications

You will need:

• Master's degree, or equivalent, in economics development studies, public policy, public administration, or related fields; University degree and specialized experience relevant to the position can be considered.
• At least 10 years of relevant professional experience in economics work, including international work experience.
• Knowledge of development issues in Asia. Significant expertise within a specific area of ADB or other similar multilateral/international development organization's operations (economic, sector or thematic), or breadth across multiple areas with in-depth knowledge within one area.
• Good understanding and experience in the overall tasks needed in the preparation of investment projects, including project identification and conceptualization, analysis of relevant policies, preparing studies and reports, and coordination with external stakeholders, consultants, and government agencies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Good skills and experience in coordinating and working with teams of professionals such as for technical, social, and environmental safeguards, economic assessments, procurement, etc.

Please refer to the link for ADB Competency Framework for Technical International Staff Grade 2 (TI2).

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

Additional Information

This appointment is open to internal and external applicants.

This is a fixed-term appointment for an initial fixed period of 3 years. At the end of the initial period, this appointment may, at the option of ADB, be extended once for up to 2 years, converted to a regular appointment, or ended on its expiration date. This decision will be made in the overall interest of ADB that: (a) it will require Staff's particular blend of skills and experience in the foreseeable future; and (b) Staff's performance is satisfactory and they are suitable for further employment.

About Us

Asian Development Bank (ADB) is an international development finance institution headquartered in Manila, Philippines and is composed of 69 members, 50 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 our Strategy 2030.

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.

Visit ADB Careers FAQ for more information.

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