Legal Counsel - Europe, Middle East, and Central Asia

Job Posting Organization:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group and is recognized as the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. Established to promote economic development by encouraging private sector investment, IFC operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization leverages its capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities, with a mission to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity on a livable planet. IFC's Legal Department, known as CLED, plays a crucial role in providing legal and policy advice to the IFC Board, Management, and client departments on various operational, advisory, and corporate matters.

Job Overview:
The Legal Counsel position at IFC is designed to support the organization's activities in Europe, the Middle East, Türkiye, Central Asia, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. The role is pivotal in providing legal advice and support to investment clients involved in debt and equity, project and corporate financings across a diverse range of sectors, particularly focusing on financial institutions and structured finance. The successful candidate will assume primary responsibility for new and portfolio investments and advisory services in the EUR and MCT regions. This position will require close collaboration with client departments to identify and assess upstream opportunities, as well as advising on scalable solutions that can be replicated across different markets. The role also involves managing outside counsel and legal costs effectively, ensuring excellent legal services are provided in the regions, and leading training initiatives to enhance the legal team's capabilities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Legal Counsel include providing comprehensive legal advice and support to investment clients, particularly in complex debt and equity transactions. The candidate will be responsible for managing new and existing portfolio investments, advising on the selection and management of outside counsel, and facilitating communication with colleagues across various regions. The role requires leadership in designing and delivering training sessions, advising on institutional and corporate matters, and providing general support for all aspects of IFC's business in the EUR and MCT regions. Additionally, the Legal Counsel will be expected to build strong knowledge about business operations in these regions and share best practices effectively. The position also necessitates the use of language skills to enhance communication with external clients.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the Legal Counsel position, candidates must be qualified to practice law in at least one jurisdiction within the EUR or MCT region. A solid experience in another relevant jurisdiction or an LL.M. or Master’s degree in Law from a prestigious institution is considered a plus. Candidates should possess 8-10 years of relevant experience in cross-border transactions, ideally with a background in a leading law firm or an international financial institution. Experience in complex capital market transactions, knowledge of insolvency laws, and the ability to lead non-project assignments are essential. Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to the core values of the World Bank Group, including excellence, teamwork, and integrity.

Educational Background:
Candidates for the Legal Counsel position should have a law degree from a recognized institution, with additional qualifications such as an LL.M. or a Master’s degree in Law being advantageous. The educational background should reflect a strong foundation in legal principles relevant to international finance and development.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have 8-10 years of relevant experience, particularly in cross-border transactions. Experience at a leading law firm or an international financial institution is highly desirable, especially in developing countries. Candidates should have a proven track record of working independently on complex transactions and advising clients on legal matters related to capital markets and project finance.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Turkish is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the EUR and MCT regions would be considered beneficial, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of clients and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a term duration of 3 years. It involves international recruitment, and the successful candidate will be expected to work closely with teams across various regions, including Vienna, Amman, and Dubai. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees.