Public Sector Economist

Job Vacancy | Thursday, August 13, 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 Public Sector Economist is assigned to the Public Sector Management and Governance Sector Office (PSMG) within Sectors Department 3 (SD3). 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 Director, PSMG, and will supervise junior team members.

Your Role

As a Public Sector Economist, you will: (i) help in identifying, designing, contributing to processing and administration of loans (both policy-based and project loans), technical assistance (TA), and non-lending products and services (NLPS) in the areas of public sector management; (ii) contribute in policy research in area of fiscal policies, public management strategies, and regulatory issues for assigned regional countries; (iii) create high quality knowledge products on the relevant issues pertaining to economic management and to support ADB's activities; and (iv)work within general policies, principles and goals, working directly with clients.

You will:

• Support the strategic and operational development of the PSMG sector covering all major aspects related to project identification, preparation, appraisal, and documentation on public sector management, including but not limited to domestic resource mobilization and debt management, public expenditure management, social security and pension reforms, domestic savings, state-owned enterprises management, digitalization of systems and processes, economic diversification, fiscal decentralization, including strengthening of Micro-Small Medium Enterprise (MSME) ecosystem and industrial development, climate change, public investment management, strengthening of institutions for investment and business climate of DMCs, generation of private resources for investment opportunities, and strengthening systems for regional trade integration in consultation with relevant government agencies, and RMs.
• Lead or contribute to strategic planning, identify, and develop core expertise in emerging areas, and solutions delivery to internal and external stakeholders. Support teams and colleagues in adapting to the cultural and business norms of diverse clients and country situations and mentor colleagues in the design and delivery of policy-based programs and other projects.
• Support dialogue with government officials and other stakeholders to improve public sector management and enhance government capacity while managing debt and creating more opportunities for private sector investment.
• Lead the development, processing and administration of loan and TA projects in public sector management for governments at all levels in DMCs. In this regard, take the role of mission leader and supervise the work of mission members.
• Participate in country teams and provide or peer review inputs for Country Partnership Strategies, Country Operations and Country Programming/Portfolio Review Missions MOUs. Participate in interdepartmental working groups on public sector management issues.
• Coordinate with other sectors and departments for OneADB collaboration to improve development impact.
• Coordinate with other development partners and international agencies for operational synergies to improve assessments and development impact.
• Support in the review of portfolio performance and preparation of initiatives to promote project quality and improve portfolio performance. Lead in providing guidance and advice in identification and implementation of actions items needed to resolve implementation issues and problems.
• Lead and conduct economic, thematic and sector work related to policy, legal, regulatory and institutional framework for public sector management to facilitate sustainable economic development, inclusive growth, green public financial management, and poverty reduction. Facilitate effective evaluation processes for PSMG work. Create high quality knowledge products on contemporary issues including macroeconomic management in the DMCs.
• Effectively handle closure of projects and completion processes and reports, and conduct consultations with governments on results and lessons learned.
• Substantially contribute to activities for advocacy, training, dissemination and knowledge building around public sector management issues. Promote innovation and more effective ways for addressing key development constraints in DMCs, including use of modern technology, cross-country learnings and best practices, and knowledge solutions.
• Manage knowledge products and services work including peer reviews for the sector.
• Conduct internal and external training and conferences and other activities for advocacy, dissemination, and knowledge building in the area of public sector management.
• Supervise the performance of reporting staff, providing clear direction and regular monitoring and feedback on performance. Ensure the ongoing learning and development of reporting staff.
  

Qualifications

You will need:

• A University degree in economics, finance, public policy or other related fields; preferably at post-graduate level or its equivalent.
• At least 6 years of relevant professional experience in public sector management at the national and sub-national level, preferably in a reputed research institution or in a multilateral agency.
• Extensive knowledge of public finance in Asia. Significant expertise within a specific area of ADB's public management operations, or breadth across multiple areas with in-depth knowledge within one area.
• Proven experience as team leader for processing or administration projects and holding policy dialogue related to public finance.
• Good understanding and experience of the full project cycle including program identification and conceptualization, analysis of relevant policies, preparing studies, diagnostics, and reports, and coordination with external stakeholders, consultants, and government agencies.
• Demonstrate flexibility and aptitude to learn new and emerging issues/topics within the public sector and financial sector.
• International experience working in development in several countries.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills in English.

• 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)

• 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 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.

Stay up to date Subscribe to our newsletter and get the latest issues, news, events, jobs and data in your e-mail inbox.