Senior Economist (Environment)

Job Vacancy | Monday, September 29, 2025

Join Our Mission to Foster Prosperity in Asia

Are 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.

You will report to Director, EREA, in close coordination with Director of the relevant operations department. You will oversee junior team members.

*Position title on appointment is Senior Economist

• Undertake applied research on a variety of environment-related issues (such as natural capital, climate change adaptation, or resilience), with an emphasis on analytical and policy-relevant empirical studies, aligned with the department's current research priorities which include economic integration; poverty and inequality; digital economy; macro and financial stability; climate change and sustainable development; and skills and the future work.

• Lead the design and implementation of research outputs and publications, including ADB's flagship publications, thematic reports, policy briefs, working papers, and publications in peer-reviewed journals.

• Lead and coordinate the internal review and provide substantive advice and comments on the economic rationale and quality of economic analysis, in the areas of environment and natural resources, in ADB's country strategies, programs, projects, and other operational documents.

• Provide technical and analytical support in areas of research expertise to ADB operations, including collaborating with ADB operational departments and country offices, reviewing institutional documents, and participating in review meetings and operational missions.

• Participate in teams preparing ADB flagship publications and other projects.

• Take a lead in the development and delivery of internal and external training programs for ADB staff and government officials.

Project Management

• Oversee and carry out the design, implementation, and administration of technical assistance projects for developing member countries (DMCs) on empirically rigorous policy analysis across a broad range of areas.

Knowledge Sharing

• Contribute substantially to the dissemination of ADB knowledge outputs and publications.

• Support the capacity building work of ERDI by undertaking collaborative research, dissemination, networking, and capacity building activities with specialists across a global network of knowledge institutions and with other ADB knowledge and operations departments.

• Lead and contribute to relevant internal and external training and conferences and other activities for advocacy, dissemination, and knowledge building.

Staff Management

• Provide leadership and support to reporting staff and ensure the quality of their work.

• Manage the performance of teams and individuals, providing clear direction and regular monitoring and feedback on performance and ensure their ongoing learning and development.

Qualifications

You will need:

• PhD in Economics or related fields, with a strong background in empirical analysis and policy-focused research.

• At least 10 years of relevant professional experience with demonstrated experience conducting independent research, including international experience in several countries.

• Evidence of high-quality research output and record of publications in international peer-reviewed professional journals.

• Technical knowledge, analytical, and conceptual skills in economics.

• Understanding of ADB or similar multilateral development bank's institutional context, strategies, priorities, and objectives.

• Written and verbal proficiency in English.

• 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.

• Please refer to the link for ADB Competency Framework for TI2.

Benefits

ADB offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package. The salary will be based on ADB's standards and comparator markets, taking into account your qualifications and experience.

• Paid leave (including parental)

• Medical and health benefits

• Life and other insurance plans

• Staff development

• Retirement plan

• Housing and education allowance (if applicable)

• Expatriate benefits (for international staff)

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

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 its Strategy 2030.

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.

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