Associate in the Corporate Team of the Office of the General Counsel

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

• Its mission is to promote the transition to open market-oriented economies and to foster private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries, employing a diverse workforce that reflects a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. The organization is committed to sustainability, equality, and digital transformation, and it prioritizes employee wellbeing by offering a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits.

Job Overview:
The Associate position is integral to the Corporate team within the Office of the General Counsel (OGC) at the EBRD. The role involves providing legal support primarily in employment and institutional matters, ensuring compliance with EBRD's policies and procedures. The Associate will assist in drafting, reviewing, and negotiating legal documentation, while also advising on contentious staff matters under international administrative law. The position requires a proactive approach to legal risk management and compliance, as well as the ability to conduct legal research and follow up on legal developments in jurisdictions where the EBRD operates. The Associate will work closely with counsel and be a primary point of contact for standard activities, contributing to the overall legal strategy of the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate will be responsible for providing specialist legal advice within a multi-disciplinary operational team, ensuring that EBRD's interests are protected and that internal policies are adhered to. Key responsibilities include advising clients under the supervision of counsel, drafting and negotiating legal documents, analyzing legal risks, and recommending solutions. The Associate will monitor the work of outside counsel, conduct initial reviews of their outputs, and maintain thorough knowledge of EBRD's internal policies. Additionally, the Associate will follow up on deliverables and deadlines, identify potential threats to timely completion of activities, and assist counsel in various OGC-led initiatives. Legal research and the ability to communicate legal matters effectively are also essential components of this role.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a law degree from a leading university in their home country, along with a postgraduate law degree from a reputable institution or equivalent work experience in a different country. A strong understanding of international administrative law, particularly regarding the privileges and immunities of international organizations, is essential. Candidates should also have a minimum of 3 to 5 years of legal post-qualification experience, preferably within the context of international financial institutions or organizations. Excellent written and spoken English is mandatory, with additional languages such as Arabic, French, Russian, and Ukrainian being highly preferred.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include a law degree from a leading university in the candidate's home country, complemented by a postgraduate law degree from a recognized institution. This educational background should ideally be supplemented by work experience gained in a country other than the candidate's home country, providing a broad perspective on international legal practices and frameworks.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have between 3 to 5 years of legal post-qualification experience or equivalent legal experience. Experience working in the Bank's countries or regions of operations is preferred, as is prior experience in an international financial institution or organization. This level of experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of legal matters within the context of international organizations and for effectively contributing to the Corporate team's objectives.

Languages:
A strong command of written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, proficiency in other languages such as Arabic, French, Russian, and Ukrainian is highly desirable and will be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and navigate international legal contexts.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract lasting for 3 years. The EBRD promotes a hybrid workplace model that emphasizes flexibility and connectedness among teams and individuals. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from qualified candidates who are nationals of EBRD member countries, regardless of their background. The EBRD is committed to providing a supportive work environment that prioritizes employee wellbeing and offers competitive benefits.