Legal Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is an international financial institution established in 199

• Its mission is to foster the transition towards open market-oriented economies and to promote private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries, employing a diverse workforce that reflects the rich variety of cultures and nationalities in the regions it serves. The organization is committed to sustainability, equality, and digital transformation, making it a pioneer in the financial sector.

Job Overview:
The Legal Officer position is primarily focused on providing comprehensive secretarial and administrative support within the Office of the General Counsel (OGC). This role is crucial for ensuring that legal documentation is accurately produced and managed, and that the office operates smoothly. The officer will be responsible for a variety of tasks including the preparation of legal documents, managing correspondence, and liaising with both internal and external clients on legal matters. The position requires a proactive approach to organizing legal conferences and events, as well as maintaining legal knowledge management databases. The officer will also assist in the coordination of technical cooperation projects and provide support during the absence of other staff members. This role is essential for maintaining the efficiency of the OGC and ensuring compliance with the Bank's policies and procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Legal Officer include but are not limited to: producing and completing legal documentation such as contracts and corporate authorizations; filing and archiving legal documents in both hard copy and electronic systems; liaising with clients on legal matters; processing consultancy engagements and preparing contracts; updating legal knowledge management databases; managing correspondence; assisting with internal reporting; arranging travel and itineraries; organizing internal and external events; preparing documents for management meetings; and performing any other administrative tasks as assigned. The officer will also be responsible for maintaining the internal knowledge sharing database and ensuring that the Corporate Climate Governance Facility intranet website is updated.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess significant secretarial and administrative experience, particularly in a legal context. A recognized legal secretarial qualification, such as the Legal Secretaries Diploma, is advantageous but not mandatory. Candidates should demonstrate excellent organizational skills, a proactive and flexible attitude, and the ability to work independently. Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure are essential. The candidate should also have a professional demeanor and the ability to build effective working relationships in a multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is Secondary/High School Education. While a legal secretarial qualification is beneficial, it is not a strict requirement for applicants. The emphasis is on relevant experience and skills rather than formal educational credentials alone.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have significant experience in secretarial and administrative roles, particularly within legal settings. Experience in organizing legal conferences, events, and webinars is highly desirable. Familiarity with the administration of technical cooperation projects and coordination of technical consultants will be considered an asset. Candidates should be able to demonstrate a proactive approach to their work and the ability to manage tasks effectively without constant supervision.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages such as Russian, German, French, Turkish, or Arabic is considered advantageous, particularly for roles based in regional offices. Proficiency in another language can enhance communication with diverse stakeholders and clients.

Additional Notes:
This position is a short-term contract lasting 12 months. The EBRD promotes a flexible working environment, expecting employees to work in the office 50% of the time. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background. Due to the high volume of applications, the EBRD may not provide detailed feedback to candidates who are not shortlisted.