Water and Urban Development Research Associate

Asian Development Bank (ADB)

Home-based/Remote

Objective and Purpose of the Assignment

Strategy and Partnerships Team (S&P) plays a critical role in the development of strategic/integrated solutions and implement the transformative goals of ADB Strategy 2030 by (i) making Trust Funds and Technical Assistance readily available to support innovative projects and pilot approaches, and (ii) effective knowledge management and knowledge sharing. The assignment aims to conduct an internal S&P strategic review of existing processes and initiatives, providing actionable recommendations to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of S&P’s day-to-day operations. In addition, it seeks to strengthen knowledge management, analytical capabilities, and strategic engagement in its water resilience initiatives. The expert will support the team in delivering high-quality outputs, including MDB water beneficiary accounting, micro AWDO, WOP4R, analytical studies, global event participation, and the development of communication products.

Scope of Work

The expert will provide technical and strategic support to enhance implementation of water-related programs and initiatives, ensuring alignment with institutional goals and knowledge agendas.

Detailed Tasks and/or Expected Output

The expert’s tasks include, but not limited to: Strategic Review and Process Improvement • Assess current S&P processes and practices; identify gaps and propose actionable and innovative recommendations. • Develop strategies to optimize resource allocation and operational efficiency. Knowledge Management and Innovation • Design and implement new knowledge-sharing frameworks and tools. • Develop new concepts for innovation hubs and best practice guides. Data analytics and Water Resilience Initiatives • MDB Water Beneficiaries Accounting: Support in providing inputs to developing the framework, indicators, and reporting system aligned with global water strategies, and ADB AWDO. • Micro Asian Water Development Outlook report (AWDO): Support design, data collection, and policy briefs for Country/state/city level water security assessments. • Water Operators Program for Resilience (WOP4R): Support strengthening of the ADB WOP4R program. Provide new insights and approaches to enhance partnerships, improve operational frameworks, benchmarking and capacity-building approaches. • Accelerating Innovation and Digitalization: Support efforts to enhance WUD operations through new innovative approaches and technologies. This includes engaging with start-ups, implementing small scale pilots and trials. Analytical Work and Portfolio Review • Conduct thematic, sectoral, and regional sectoral analyses to inform WUD sector strategy. • Review WFPF portfolio and undertake gap analysis; prepare recommendations for resource allocation. Global Engagement and Communication • Coordinate ADB’s participation in global water events and forums. • Develop communication strategies, talking points, and visual materials for high-level engagements. Other Tasks • Perform additional knowledge and innovation-related tasks as assigned by the supervisor Deliverables • Strategic review report with recommendations • MDB water beneficiaries accounting framework and reports • Micro AWDO methodology and policy briefs • WOP4R progress reports and recommendations • Analytical briefs, technical notes, and portfolio gap analysis • Communication strategy, talking points, and presentation materials

Minimum Qualification Requirements

• Advanced degree in water resources, economics, project management, or related fields • Minimum 5 years and up to 8 years of relevant professional experience in knowledge management, data analysis, and capacity building. • At least 8 years of experience in knowledge management, data analysis, and capacity building • Familiarity with MDB operations and water sector frameworks • Strong analytical, writing, and presentation skills

5 days remaining

Apply by 24 November, 2025

POSITION TYPE

ORGANIZATION TYPE

EXPERIENCE-LEVEL

DEGREE REQUIRED

IHE Delft - MSc in Water and Sustainable Development