Counsel

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global institution established to provide funding and knowledge to developing countries. It is a unique partnership of five institutions dedicated to ending extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity. With 189 member countries and over 120 offices worldwide, the World Bank Group collaborates with public and private sector partners to invest in innovative projects and leverage data, research, and technology to address urgent global challenges. The organization is committed to delivering measurable results, promoting transparency in development, and improving access to vital development information and data.

Job Overview:
The Counsel position at the World Bank Group is integral to the Legal Vice Presidency (LEG), which provides legal advice and support on various operational, advisory, financial, administrative, and institutional matters. The selected candidates will work within the IBRD/IDA Operational Practice Groups, focusing on legal and policy aspects of the World Bank's lending operations. The role requires the ability to operate independently while collaborating with other legal professionals. Counsel positions are expected to involve international travel, as candidates may be required to serve in one of the World Bank’s Country Offices during their tenure. The role emphasizes the importance of legal expertise in supporting the World Bank's mission to reduce poverty and enhance economic growth.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Counsel positions entail a wide range of responsibilities, including but not limited to: drafting, reviewing, negotiating, and finalizing legal agreements; providing risk-based legal advice to clients; identifying and assessing legal risks; participating in initiatives and managing client relationships; reviewing project documents for compliance with World Bank policies; conducting comparative legal analyses; engaging in policy discussions; protecting the World Bank's interests; preparing legal briefs; and advancing the LEGVPU’s knowledge management agenda. The role demands rigorous analytical skills, teamwork, and sound judgment, with a focus on delivering high-quality legal services.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an LLM degree, J.D., or equivalent, along with a minimum of five years of relevant experience. Admission to practice in at least one jurisdiction is required. Strong oral and written communication skills in English are essential, with proficiency in additional languages such as French, Spanish, Arabic, or Portuguese being highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate excellent legal research, writing, drafting, and analytical skills, as well as interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in multicultural environments.

Educational Background:
A Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree or equivalent, such as a Master of Laws (LLM), is required for this position. The educational background should include a strong foundation in international, commercial, or contract law, along with relevant coursework or experience in transactional legal work.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant legal experience, particularly in international law, commercial law, or contract law. Experience in drafting and negotiating legal agreements, as well as familiarity with the World Bank's legal framework and policies, is highly advantageous. The ability to manage legal risks and provide sound legal advice in a complex, international context is crucial.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages such as French, Spanish, Arabic, or Portuguese is considered a strong asset and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The position is a three-year term appointment, with the possibility of extension for current World Bank Group staff members holding Regular or Open-Ended appointments. The role is classified as an international recruitment position, and the World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunity for all candidates.