Principal Disaster Risk Management Specialist

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Join the Asian Development Bank (ADB) as a Principal Disaster Risk Management (DRM) Specialist. Based at ADB Headquarters in Manila, Philippines, you will contribute to the DRM policy and operational framework and support ADB’s developing member countries by integrating disaster risk reduction, disaster preparedness, and disaster risk financing into country programs and projects. You will report to the Director, Disaster Risk Management and oversee junior team members.

• Strategic development: Support the Director, DRM in expanding the scale and scope of the DRM portfolio at ADB, including guidance on relevant approach papers, strategic documents, tools and methodologies.
• Technical leadership and support: Lead the development and implementation of DRM-related technical assistance, support sector groups, and ensure DRM goals are adopted by project teams. Provide expertise in developing financial mechanisms to scale DRM investments (e.g., DRR, DRF, resilience-linked financing).
• Collaboration and integration: Promote a One ADB approach by partnering with regional departments, resident missions, sector groups, the private sector, and other departments to integrate DRM with climate adaptation and nature-based interventions.
• Measurement and reporting: Develop metrics, tracking, and reporting frameworks for ADB DRM projects and strategic programs, in coordination with results measurement leads.
• Leadership and governance: Support the Director, DRM in implementing and monitoring the DRM team’s annual work plan, and provide high-level policy advice on short- and long-term DRM issues. Act as Officer-in-Charge in the absence of the Director, DRM.
• Knowledge Management: Synthesize relevant scientific knowledge and innovations in DRM, develop knowledge products and partnerships, and promote DRM mainstreaming in ADB operations.
• Capacity development: Develop training sessions on DRM, DRR, DRF, and resilience practices and organize knowledge sharing events.
• Partnerships: Manage global/regional partnerships with MDBs, donors, UN agencies, private sector, academia, NGOs/CSOs, and other partners to enhance DRM delivery.
• Corporate support: Provide reporting, briefing papers, speeches, and support corporate DRM initiatives.

• Master’s Degree or equivalent in DRM, economics, structural engineering, actuarial science, social sciences, urban planning, public sector management and finance, or related fields; or a related degree with additional specialized experience.
• At least 12 years of relevant professional experience in DRM policy, strategy, and operations, including international experience across multiple countries.
• Understanding of DRM in a development context, climate change adaptation, and interlinkages with DRM.
• Familiarity with multilateral development banks and their objectives in promoting disaster and climate resilience.
• Strong technical knowledge of DRM in developing member countries, and knowledge of Nature Based Solutions.
• Understanding of international policy architecture and regulatory frameworks for DRM and resilient development.
• Proven ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams and a track record in international institutions; strong team player attitude.
• Proficiency in English (written and spoken).

ADB offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package. Salary is based on ADB standards and qualifications/experience. Benefits include:

• 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)

Asian Development Bank (ADB) is an international development finance institution headquartered in Manila, with 68 members. ADB is committed to a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, supporting its Strategy 2030 and expanded vision through finance, knowledge, and partnerships. ADB seeks to ensure equal opportunities in an inclusive environment and encourages all qualified candidates to apply regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. Women are strongly encouraged to apply.

Primary Location: Asian Development Bank Headquarters, Manila, Philippines

Department: Climate Change and Sustainable Development Department

Division: Climate Change, Resilience, and Environment Cluster

Staff Category: Technical International (HQ)

Position Level: TI3

Job Posting: 12-Sep-2025, 3:57:38 PM; 26-Sep-2025, 11:59:00 PM