Assistant General Counsel (Law and Policy Reform)

Job Posting Organization:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a leading multilateral development bank established in 1966, headquartered in Manila, Philippines. ADB's mission is to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region. With 69 member countries, including 50 from the region, ADB works collaboratively with its members and partners to address complex challenges and foster inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth. ADB employs a diverse workforce and is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities. The organization focuses on innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives and build quality infrastructure.

Job Overview:
The Assistant General Counsel for Law and Policy Reform (LPR) Team plays a crucial role in leading the planning, implementation, and supervision of the Office of the General Counsel's (OGC) vision, goals, and strategies. This position involves overseeing the provision of law and policy reform services, ensuring quality in the work being supervised, and managing legal and operational risks. The Assistant General Counsel will develop strategies and frameworks for law and policy reform in ADB's developing member countries (DMCs) and work closely with client departments to provide guidance on operational issues and compliance with ADB policies. The role also includes leading activities related to processing, negotiating, and administering loans, grants, and technical assistance, as well as resolving disputes arising from ADB-financed projects. The position requires strong leadership capabilities, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to communicate complex legal arguments effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Assistant General Counsel will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Leadership and Strategic Management: Provide leadership in planning and supervising work plans, monitoring quality of output, and achieving long-term goals.
• Law and Policy Reform Management: Develop strategies for law and policy reform in DMCs, mainstreaming reforms into ADB operations, and managing the LPR Program.
• Knowledge Management: Oversee OGC's knowledge management activities and contribute to policy and operational matters.
• OGC Management Support: Provide inputs to OGC's work program and support the General Counsel with special projects.
• Dispute Management: Lead in providing legal advice for dispute resolution related to ADB-financed projects.
• External and Internal Relations: Manage client relationships and contribute to high-level meetings and committees.
• Staff Supervision: Lead and mentor the LPR Team, ensuring high-quality outputs and effective performance management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Juris Doctorate or Master's degree, or equivalent, and be admitted as a lawyer in one or more of ADB's member countries. Specialized experience in management, finance, and/or law and policy reform is required, preferably in international financial institutions or similar organizations. A minimum of 15 years of relevant legal experience is necessary, with practical experience in development projects, international financing agreements, and legal analysis of multilateral development institutions. Proven leadership capabilities and excellent interpersonal skills are essential, along with the ability to communicate complex legal issues effectively.

Educational Background:
A Juris Doctorate or Master's degree, or equivalent, is required for this position. Candidates must also be admitted as a lawyer in one or more ADB member countries. A university degree with at least 10 years of specialized experience relevant to the position may also be considered.

Experience:
The position requires at least 15 years of relevant legal experience, particularly in the formulation and implementation of development projects, preparation and negotiation of international financing agreements, and legal analysis of multilateral development institutions. International experience working in several countries is also desirable, along with an understanding of ADB's operational policies and programs.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, as the role involves complex legal communication and documentation. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly those relevant to ADB's member countries.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term appointment for a managerial position, initially for a period of 3 years or up to the Staff's Normal Retirement Date (NRD), whichever comes earlier. ADB may choose to renew the appointment for an additional fixed term period of up to 3 years. The position is open to both internal and external applicants, and ADB offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including housing and education allowances, expatriate benefits, relocation assistance, retirement plans, medical and health benefits, paid leave, and staff development opportunities. ADB encourages all qualified candidates to apply, with a particular emphasis on promoting diversity and inclusion within the workplace.