Associate Programme Lawyer

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

• Its mission is to promote the transition to open market economies in countries from Central and Eastern Europe to Central Asia and the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean. EBRD operates in over 30 countries and has a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees. The bank focuses on sustainable development and climate finance, having deployed more than €13 billion in financing in 2022 alone. EBRD is committed to fostering private sector development and supporting infrastructure projects, small and medium-sized enterprises, and local manufacturers.

Job Overview:
The Associate Programme at EBRD's Office of the General Counsel (OGC) offers a unique opportunity for outstanding lawyers to contribute their expertise to the bank's mission. Associates will engage in various legal aspects of EBRD's lending and investment transactions, providing legal advice on institutional and administrative matters, and supporting policy development through the Legal Transition Program. This role is crucial for facilitating EBRD's operations and ensuring compliance with legal standards in the jurisdictions where the bank operates. Successful candidates will be expected to leverage their country, language, and academic knowledge to enhance the institution's effectiveness in promoting sustainable market economies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Associates will be assigned to the Legal Transition team, which plays a vital role in supporting the Bank's policy development in its countries of operations. Responsibilities include conducting legal research, drafting and negotiating legal documentation, and providing technical assistance to develop laws and policies essential for a vibrant market-oriented economy. Associates will also be involved in monitoring and following up on various activities concurrently, ensuring that all legal aspects of transactions are handled efficiently and effectively. The role requires excellent project management skills and the ability to prioritize tasks under time constraints, as well as strong interpersonal and communication skills to maintain client focus.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a law degree from a recognized university and have a minimum of three years of prior work experience as a lawyer, either in private practice or within an in-house legal team. Familiarity with the areas of practice relevant to EBRD's operations is essential, including experience in conducting legal research and drafting legal documentation. Candidates should demonstrate excellent command of written and spoken English, along with strong project management skills and the ability to manage multiple activities simultaneously. Interpersonal and communication skills are critical, as is a client-focused approach to legal practice.

Educational Background:
A law degree from an accredited university is required for this position. Candidates should have a solid understanding of legal principles and practices relevant to the areas of law that EBRD engages with, particularly in the context of international finance and development.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least three years of relevant experience as a lawyer, which can be gained through work in private law firms or as part of an in-house legal team. This experience should include familiarity with legal research, drafting, and negotiation, as well as an understanding of the legal frameworks in the jurisdictions where EBRD operates.

Languages:
A strong command of written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to EBRD's member countries is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a fixed-term contract of three years, with the possibility of extension based on performance and organizational needs. The role is full-time and based in London, providing a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic international environment. EBRD promotes a hybrid workplace model that emphasizes flexibility and inclusivity, ensuring that all employees have the opportunity to thrive in their roles. The bank is committed to diversity and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background.