Counsel (Institutional and Administrative Law)

Job Posting Organization:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is an international development finance institution that was established to foster economic growth and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region. Headquartered in Manila, Philippines, ADB has been operational since 1966 and currently comprises 69 member countries, with 50 of these from the Asia and Pacific region. ADB's mission is to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development through financial assistance, policy advice, and technical assistance. The organization employs a diverse workforce and is committed to creating an inclusive environment that respects and values diversity. ADB aims to achieve a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while also working towards the eradication of extreme poverty. The institution combines finance, knowledge, and partnerships to fulfill its expanded vision under Strategy 2030, which outlines its commitment to addressing the region's development challenges.

Job Overview:
The Counsel position is situated within the Office of the General Counsel (OGC) at ADB, which serves as the legal department providing essential legal and policy advice to ADB's Board of Directors, Management, and various client departments. The Counsel will play a pivotal role in supporting OGC's objectives by offering legal advice and documentation support on institutional and administrative matters. This includes a wide range of responsibilities such as advising on ADB's personnel policies, handling personnel matters, addressing administrative law issues, and ensuring compliance with legal obligations related to ADB's operations. The Counsel will also engage in knowledge sharing through participation in training and conferences, and will supervise junior staff, providing guidance and performance monitoring to foster their professional development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Counsel will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including but not limited to:

• Providing legal advice on institutional and administrative matters, including ADB's personnel policies, staff grievances, disciplinary procedures, and appeals.
• Advising on administrative law issues affecting ADB's operations in member countries, including privileges and immunities.
• Reviewing and preparing legal documentation related to ADB's financing and investment contracts.
• Conducting legal research and preparing reports on applicable laws and regulations.
• Participating in the implementation of treaties and agreements related to institutional matters.
• Contributing to the development of data privacy and protection policies.
• Leading and supervising junior staff, providing clear guidance and performance feedback.
• Engaging in knowledge sharing through training and advocacy activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in law and must be admitted as a lawyer in one or more of ADB's member countries. A postgraduate degree or its equivalent is preferred. Additionally, candidates should have at least 6 years of relevant legal experience, with a minimum of 3 years in international organizations focusing on human resources, employment, governance, and administrative law matters. Strong written and verbal communication skills in English are essential, along with the ability to present and defend legal arguments effectively. Candidates should demonstrate core competencies and the ability to collaborate within multicultural and multidisciplinary teams. A proven ability to inspire trust and promote a culture of openness is also required.

Educational Background:
The position requires a university degree in law, with a preference for candidates holding a postgraduate degree or its equivalent. Admission as a lawyer in one or more of ADB's member countries is mandatory, ensuring that the candidate has the necessary legal qualifications to provide sound legal advice and support.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 6 years of relevant legal experience, which must include at least 3 years of legal work in international organizations. This experience should encompass areas such as human resources, employment law, governance, and administrative law matters, demonstrating the candidate's ability to navigate complex legal frameworks and provide effective legal counsel.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with advanced written and verbal communication skills required to articulate legal arguments and collaborate effectively with diverse teams. While English is the primary language of communication, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to ADB's member countries.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term appointment for an initial period of 3 years, with the possibility of extension for up to 2 additional years, conversion to a regular appointment, or termination at the end of the initial period based on ADB's needs and the candidate's performance. The role is full-time, and ADB offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including housing and education allowances (if applicable), expatriate benefits, a retirement plan, medical and health benefits, paid leave (including parental leave), and life insurance plans. ADB encourages applications from all qualified candidates, particularly women, and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment.