Chief Counsel

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global institution dedicated to providing funding and knowledge to developing countries. Established with the mission to end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity, it operates with 189 member countries and maintains over 120 offices worldwide. The organization collaborates with both public and private sector partners to invest in innovative projects and leverage data, research, and technology to address pressing global challenges. The World Bank Group is committed to improving its operational effectiveness by focusing on measurable results, transparency, and enhanced access to development information and data.

Job Overview:
The Chief Counsel position at the World Bank Group is a senior legal role within the Legal Vice Presidency (LEG). This position is pivotal in providing legal advice and support to both internal and external clients on a wide range of operational, advisory, financial, administrative, and institutional matters. The Chief Counsel will oversee a team of lawyers specializing in various legal functions, ensuring the delivery of high-quality legal services. This role requires strategic direction to address emerging legal challenges and the ability to mentor and develop legal staff. The Chief Counsel will also represent the legal team at various management levels and coordinate resources effectively to achieve the office's objectives. The position demands a proactive approach to maintaining client relations and resolving legal issues across different organizational boundaries.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief Counsel will be responsible for managing and overseeing the legal staff, ensuring timely and high-quality legal advice is provided. Key duties include organizing practice groups of lawyers, conducting substantive reviews of complex legal analyses, and providing strategic direction for the institutional affairs function. The Chief Counsel will mentor lawyers, represent the legal team at management levels, and coordinate resources for efficient operations. Additionally, the role involves developing relationships with counterparts in international organizations to address common legal issues and taking on other responsibilities as designated by the Deputy General Counsel. Maintaining good client relations and resolving differences across various units and third parties is also a critical aspect of this role.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an LLM degree, J.D., or equivalent legal qualification and be admitted to practice law in at least one jurisdiction. A minimum of 12 years of relevant post-qualification legal experience is required. Exceptional people management skills and experience in leading diverse teams are essential. Knowledge of international organizations and experience with international financial institutions are advantageous. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in managing complex legal matters, providing innovative and practical legal advice, and demonstrating exceptional leadership and planning skills. Strong communication skills and receptivity to feedback are also important.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced legal degree such as an LLM or J.D. Candidates must be qualified to practice law in at least one jurisdiction, indicating a high level of legal education and professional training.

Experience:
The Chief Counsel role demands at least 12 years of relevant post-qualification legal experience. Candidates should have a strong background in managing legal offices, preferably in a head or deputy capacity, and experience in dealing with complex legal matters in an international context is highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. While no additional languages are specified as preferred, knowledge of other languages may be beneficial in a diverse international environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a term duration of 4 years. It involves international recruitment, indicating that candidates from various countries may apply. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization promotes an inclusive work environment and is committed to equal opportunity employment.