Principal Procurement Specialist

Job Vacancy | Monday, May 18, 2026

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 Principal Procurement Specialist is assigned to the Procurement Division (PFP) within the Procurement, Portfolio and Financial Management Department (PPFD). You will be assigned at our Headquarters in Manila, Philippines and relocation is required. All reasonable relocation expenses will be covered.

You will report to Director, PFP, and oversee junior team members.

Your Role

As a Principal Procurement Specialist, you will: (i) lead ADB's procurement operations in a sector or resident mission team; (ii) provide assistance, technical guidance and capacity development to ensure compliance with ADB's procurement policies and procedures; (iii) support improvements in the implementation performance of ADB portfolio of loans, grants, and technical assistance; (iv) advise on the use of FIDIC suite of contracts and performance-based contracting formats; (v) lead projects focused on the establishment, harmonization and improvement of ADB procurement policies and procedures; and (vi) work with sector divisions and/or resident missions to provide procurement advice across ADB's sectors of operations.

You will:

• Lead the assigned sector or resident mission country team, overseeing the procurement portfolio, managing client relationships, and assigning and managing the team's workload.
• Oversee and review borrowers' procurement actions and submissions for engaging consultants under ADB loans. Provide technical guidance, advice approvals with delegated authority.

• Perform country, sector and agency procurement risk assessments, including under the Methodology for Assessing Procurement Systems.

• Provide advice on the use of the FIDIC suite of contracts, performance-based and design-build-operate contracts.

• Lead the design, processing, administration, and evaluation of loan and TA projects with emphasis on procurement and contract management.

• Support SDs during processing and administration missions and provide quality input in the relevant Board documents.

• Process and administer TA projects associated with procurement, project administration and country procurement systems.

• Lead the enhancement of procurement policy and procedures and project administration instructions. Coordinate the harmonization of ADB's procurement policy with other development agencies.

• Lead the preparation and delivery of tailored training to ADB and EA staff to develop skills in procurement, consulting services and project administration.

• Lead the preparation and delivery of business opportunities seminars and other outreach events.

• Lead complex assignments requiring review of team members' deliverables, covering diverse tasks including those outside of own field of expertise.

• Identify, lead, and deliver efficiency programs, process improvements and reforms concerning PPFD operational, policy, and corporate activities.

• Lead in supporting work monitoring the quality of divisional outputs. Provide guidance to other procurement specialists.

• Provide leadership and support to reporting staff. Oversee the performance of reporting staff, providing clear direction and regular monitoring and feedback on performance. Ensure the ongoing learning and development of reporting staff.

• Undertake other tasks that may be assigned as reflected in your workplan.

Qualifications

You will need:

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Economics, Engineering, Public Procurement, Public Policy, or other related fields; or University degree and at least 5 years specialized experience relevant to the position can be considered.

• At least 12 years' relevant experience in procurement, project management or other related area with international experience working in several countries.

• Work experience in agriculture and natural resources, transport, energy, water and urban development, human sector development, digital infrastructure or other infrastructure sector projects, at senior levels (e.g., leading teams).

• Written and verbal proficiency in English and local language (as applicable).

• Familiarity with ADB's and other multilateral development bank's current procurement and consulting services policies.
• Please refer to the link for ADB Competency Framework for TI3.

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
• Expatriate benefits
• 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

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.

Visit ADB Careers FAQ for more information.

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