Digital Development Specialist

Job Vacancy | Thursday, May 28, 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 Digital Development Specialist is assigned to the Digital Sector Officer (SD2-DIG) within the Sectors Department 2 (SD2). You will be based in our Headquarters in Manila, Philippines and relocation is required. All reasonable relocation expenses will be covered.

You will report to Director, SD2-DIG and will oversee Junior team members.

Your Role

As a Digital Development Specialist, you will lead the identification, development, approval, and implementation of digital development projects, which can include technical assistance, sovereign and non-sovereign project, and policy-based loans in a variety of sectors and themes.

You will contribute to the development of policies and strategies of country programs and monitor the development impact of the portfolio and ensure key issues are considered and proper risk management is applied.

You will:

• Provide inputs for preparing a pipeline of digital development projects through DMCs outreach with country teams.
• Undertake country diagnostic studies and analysis to support country programming exercises.
• Lead the internal project approval process including interface with Country Teams, Sector Group, procurement, legal and other teams and management and the Board.
• Support operational departments for processing and implementation of digital projects.
• Lead and undertake the implementation of digital technology for development programs and projects, ensuring compliance with required guidelines, policies and procedures and reporting requirements; and
• Support DMC governments in implementing digital programs and capacity development efforts.
• Manage strategic partnerships with global, regional, and local experts.
• Develop knowledge products and conduct multiple knowledge sharing activities and provide necessary capacity development support for ADB operational staff.
• Participate in and contribute substantially to relevant learning events and other activities for advocacy, sharing, and knowledge building.
• Maintain and share knowledge of latest best practices across the range of main themes and sectors with an emphasis on new digital technologies.
• Develop ADB digital development strategies aligned with Strategy 2030 and implement the strategies.
• Provide strategic inputs and comment on projects, policy and other papers related to digital development projects across a range of main themes and sectors.
• Draft, review and provide comments on project, policy and other papers related to digital technology for development issues in several themes and sectors; and
• Participate in country teams for planning and programming purposes, for digital technology components in operations and sector priorities.
• Provide leadership and support to reporting staff.
• Manage the performance of reporting staff, providing clear direction and regular monitoring and feedback on performance; and ensuring ongoing learning and development of reporting staff.
• Provide inputs to reports, briefing materials, and presentations for internal and external audiences.

Qualifications

You will need:

• A University degree relevant to digital/information technologies; preferably at post-graduate level or its equivalent.
• At least 6 years of relevant professional experience in the digital development sector, preferably in the international development sector. International experience working in several countries.
• Knowledge of digital technologies covering digital public infrastructure such as national broadband networks, data centers, digital identity, spatial data infrastructure, data exchange and data platforms, and interoperability, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.
• Experience in digital transformation and related business process re-engineering and change management.
• Ability to work effectively in a cross-functional team environment.
• Proficiency in expressing ideas in both spoken and written formats 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 Technical International 1 (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)
• Retirement plan (if applicable)
• 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 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.

Visit ADB Careers FAQ for more information.

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