Communications Specialist

The Communications Specialist leads strategic communications for designated departments and thematic areas within ADB, overseeing junior team members and coordinating communication plans to enhance donor engagement and ADB's visibility. The role involves media relations, crisis communication support, and mentoring teams at the headquarters and resident missions.

Responsibilities

• Lead the formulation, review, and execution of strategic communications for designated departments and offices, thematic areas, topical campaigns, and other institutional priorities.
• Prioritize and plan DOCK-led and client-led outputs for designated departments and offices, thematic areas, topical campaigns, and other institutional priorities.
• Lead coordination with client departments to develop and execute communication plans based on operational and institutional priorities.
• Lead the development of communications and knowledge advisory plans for major DOCK-led outputs including production, dissemination, and marketing strategies.
• Lead strategic communications to strengthen donor engagement, raise ADB's visibility, and position donor countries as valued development partners.
• Review and prioritize DOCK support for unplanned/other communications activities.
• Be the primary interface with international media and maintain a media contact database.
• Serve as functional manager to Resident Mission and Representative Office Communications and External Relations Officers, providing guidance and inputs on performance reviews.
• Lead DOCK advice on communication planning for Resident Missions and prioritize support for their communication activities.
• Support ADB issues and crisis communications, monitor reputational risks, coordinate crisis response, and provide on-call support during incidents or crises.
• Support planning and execution for communication activities for the Annual Meeting.
• Provide coaching and mentoring to teams and individuals to ensure ongoing learning and development.
• Perform other related tasks as assigned by Director, Planning Division.

Requirements

• A University degree in Communications, Journalism, Public Policy, International Development or relevant fields preferably at post-graduate level or its equivalent
• At least 8 years of relevant experience in media relations, public affairs, or strategic communications—preferably with exposure to international organizations, governments, development finance, or the private sector.
• International experience working in several countries.
• Experience in preparing and implementing strategic communications plans in a large organization preferred.
• Strong project management skills, with ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain a strong network with traditional and new media and manage media inquiries
• Excellent writing and editing skills.
• Excellent oral communications skills and team orientation.
• Good knowledge of development and communication issues in the Asia and Pacific context

Skills

• Media Relations
• Public Affairs
• Strategic Communications
• International Communication
• Creative Communications Planning
• Project Management
• Media Inquiry Management
• Writing and Editing
• Oral Communication
• Crisis Communication
• Technical Mentoring
• Donor Engagement Strategies
• Development Communication
• Communication in Asia Pacific

Languages

English