Legal Officer - Asia

Job Posting Organization:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group (WBG), which is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries. Established to help countries solve their greatest development challenges, the WBG is a unique partnership of five global institutions dedicated to ending poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. With 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, the WBG collaborates with public and private sector partners to invest in groundbreaking projects and utilize data, research, and technology to develop solutions to urgent global challenges. The IFC specifically focuses on the private sector in emerging markets, working in more than 100 countries to create markets and opportunities. In fiscal year 2025, IFC committed a record $71.7 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, leveraging private sector solutions to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.

Job Overview:
The Legal Officer position at IFC is crucial for supporting the organization's growing activities in the Asia region, particularly in portfolio management and Upstream projects. The role involves providing legal and policy advice to the IFC Board, Management, and client departments on operational, advisory, and corporate matters. The Legal Department (CLED) is responsible for ensuring that legal advice is aligned with IFC's mission and objectives, particularly in financing private sector projects and advisory services. The Legal Officer will work closely with internal counsels on new and portfolio investments, providing support on straightforward financing and advisory transactions, and will be expected to exercise independent judgment in various legal matters. The position also entails updating legal guidance, conducting policy research, and effectively communicating corporate policies to internal and external clients.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Officer will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including: supporting internal counsels on new and portfolio investments and advisory services in Asia, particularly for portfolio and Upstream projects; providing 'second chair' support on complex transactions; working autonomously on straightforward financing and advisory transactions; handling portfolio work, including reviewing amendment and waiver documents; updating guidance and precedents; conducting legal and IFC policy research; communicating corporate policies to clients; managing communications with local counsel and external parties; overseeing work produced by junior staff; providing technical assistance on country-related matters; and contributing to internal knowledge training and products.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a law degree (master’s or equivalent) from a recognized university and must be admitted to practice law in at least one key jurisdiction in Asia. Additionally, a minimum of 3 years of experience at an international law firm or 4 years at a local law firm in corporate/transactional matters, preferably in financing work, is required. Candidates should have the ability to advise business teams on standard legal questions, understand complex legal issues in debt and equity transactions, and articulate arguments clearly. Proficiency in legal research and strong analytical skills are essential, along with the ability to multitask and manage multiple projects effectively. A commitment to core values such as excellence, mutual respect, and integrity is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a law degree (master’s or equivalent) from a recognized university. Candidates must also be admitted to practice law in at least one key jurisdiction in Asia, which underscores the importance of a solid legal foundation and understanding of the legal landscape in the region.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3 years of experience working at an international law firm or 4 years at a local law firm, specifically in corporate or transactional matters. Experience in financing work is preferred, as the role involves advising on legal questions related to financing and advisory transactions. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of complex legal issues and the ability to present legal analyses and recommendations clearly.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in English is essential for effective communication and legal analysis. While no additional languages are specified as preferred, knowledge of other languages relevant to the Asia region may be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 2 years. The role is based in either Bangkok, Thailand, or New Delhi, India, and is expected to be full-time. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.