Counsel

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

• Its mission is to build sustainable market economies in Central and Eastern Europe, the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean, and Central Asia. EBRD operates in over 30 countries and employs a diverse workforce that reflects a wide range of nationalities and cultures. The bank is a leader in climate finance, investing over €15 billion annually in various sectors, including renewable energy and infrastructure projects. EBRD is committed to promoting sustainable development and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises.

Job Overview:
The Counsel position within the Banking Operations group at EBRD's Office of the General Counsel (OGC) is crucial for managing legal aspects of lending and equity transactions across EBRD's operational regions. The role involves structuring transactions, managing external law firms, drafting and negotiating legal documents, and ensuring compliance with EBRD's policies. The Counsel will contribute to knowledge management within OGC and assist in the implementation of EBRD's policy mandate in lending and equity operations. This position requires a proactive approach to legal challenges and a commitment to supporting sustainable economic development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Counsel will be responsible for overseeing a variety of EBRD's lending and equity transactions, which include both secured and unsecured lending operations as well as private and public equity investments. Key responsibilities include structuring complex transactions, selecting and managing external legal counsel, drafting and negotiating transaction documents, and assisting throughout the project lifecycle. The Counsel will also contribute to the knowledge management initiatives of OGC and ensure that all operations comply with EBRD's environmental and policy requirements. Additionally, the role may involve performing other relevant duties as required by business needs, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic work environment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a law degree from a reputable university in their home country and have a minimum of five years of relevant experience in an international law firm, in-house legal department of a top commercial or investment bank, or an international organization such as EBRD. Experience in English law governed financing agreements is essential, particularly in areas such as cross-border banking transactions, structured finance, private equity investments, and capital markets transactions. Familiarity with EBRD's countries of operations is considered an asset. Candidates should also demonstrate excellent negotiation, project management, interpersonal, and communication skills.

Educational Background:
A law degree from a leading university is mandatory for this position. Candidates should have a strong academic background and a solid understanding of legal principles, particularly in the context of international finance and investment law. Continuous professional development and a commitment to staying updated on legal trends and practices in the banking and finance sectors are also expected.

Experience:
The position requires at least five years of professional experience in relevant legal fields. Candidates should have a proven track record of handling complex legal transactions and providing legal advice in a fast-paced, international environment. Experience working with English law governed financing agreements is crucial, and familiarity with EBRD's operational regions will be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent drafting and negotiation skills in the language. Proficiency in additional languages such as Arabic, French, Turkish, Russian, or other languages relevant to EBRD's countries of operations is considered a significant advantage, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a regular contract role based in London, with a contract length that is not specified. The application deadline is set for October 13, 202

• EBRD promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background. The bank offers a hybrid workplace model, emphasizing flexibility and employee well-being, along with a comprehensive benefits package.