Principal Partnerships Specialist

Job Vacancy | Friday, August 14, 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 Partnerships Specialist is assigned to the Strategic Partnerships Division (SPSP) within the Strategy, Policy, and Partnerships Department (SPD). 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, SPSP and will oversee junior team members.

Your Role

As a Principal Partnerships Specialist, you will help deliver ADB's strategic partnership management activities with non-regional member shareholders and other relevant partners. You will lead engagement with key ADB partners, drive the development of ADB partnership strategy and policy development, explore new partnership instruments, and ensures support for ADB operational departments and Senior Management.

You will also lead the preparation of briefing materials for senior Management based on excellent drafting skills, understanding of the political context in capitals and experience with global development issues. You will work within a framework of broad policies, principles and goals, independently selecting work methods.

You will:

• Lead the development and update of strategy and policies concerning ADB financing and non-financing partnerships aligned with Strategy 2030 midterm review's emphasis on resource mobilization and knowledge partnerships.
• Establish networks across ADB and develop relationships with capitals or ministries of shareholders. Communicate with sovereign and other concessional partners to understand authorizing environment and partner's priorities and concerns.
• Engage with key global forum, like G20 and G7, and the MDB Head's Group.
• Be main liaison for ADB's Chief Partnership Officer (CPO), to ensure coordination and coherence between SPSP's work and CPO's agenda.
• Prepare for high-level consultations with shareholders.
• Map and understand the political economy in shareholder countries.
• Develop intelligence-based products to support senior management and their strategic engagement in high-level fora.
• Prepare briefing materials for senior management.
• Contribute to ADB's Work Program and Budget Planning Process, and other corporate operational processes.
• Market ADB's strategies, operational plans, and administration of funds.
• Identify prospective partners for financing partnerships, and establish new cooperation or financing partnerships.
• Manage junior team members, monitor and feedback on their performance, learning and development.

Qualifications

You will need:

• Master's degree in international development, public/government relations, economics or relevant fields, or university degree and at least 5 years specialized experience relevant to the position can be considered
• At least 12 years of experience in strategic relationship management and public or government relations at a senior level.
• Understanding of international development institutional architecture and major global development issues; preferably experience working in an international development institution.
• Experience writing briefing materials for high-level officials and raising positions in high-level meetings.
• Experience implementing development programs in the Asia and Pacific region.
• Written and verbal proficiency in English.
• Please refer to the link for ADB Competency Framework for Technical International Staff Grade 3 (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 (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 with option to renew up to 13 August 2028, 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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