Extended-Term Consultant (Associate Counsel)

Job Posting Organization:
The International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) is a member of the World Bank Group, which is a unique global partnership of five institutions. The World Bank Group was established with a bold vision to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. It is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, helping to solve the world’s greatest development challenges. The organization operates with 189 member countries and has more than 120 offices worldwide, working with public and private sector partners to invest in groundbreaking projects and utilize data, research, and technology to bring about transformative changes globally. ICSID specifically focuses on fostering increased flows of international investment by providing an impartial and effective international forum for the resolution of disputes between host governments and foreign investors. More information about ICSID can be found at www.worldbank.org/icsid.

Job Overview:
The position of Extended-Term Consultant (Associate Counsel) at ICSID involves providing legal support in the field of international investment dispute settlement. The role requires fluency in English, with a preference for candidates who are also fluent in Spanish or French, the other two official languages of ICSID. The consultant will be responsible for assisting with the initial review of requests for arbitration and conciliation, as well as post-award remedy applications. This position is integral to the functioning of ICSID's legal teams, which are tasked with the administration of proceedings that may be conducted in multiple languages. The consultant will also assist in the preparation of procedural orders, review decisions and awards, and prepare case document drafts for review. The role requires a proactive approach to legal research and the preparation of materials for conferences and meetings, contributing to institutional projects and initiatives as assigned by senior legal counsel.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Extended-Term Consultant will have a variety of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to: providing support with the initial review of requests for arbitration and conciliation; assisting the ICSID Secretary-General and counsel in the constitution of arbitral tribunals, conciliation commissions, and ad hoc committees; administering subsequent proceedings in English, French, Spanish, or a combination of these languages; preparing procedural orders and reviewing decisions and awards; drafting case documents for review by the Team Leader and legal counsel; conducting legal research in conciliation, arbitration, alternative dispute resolution, and foreign investment law; preparing materials and presentations for conferences and meetings; and undertaking other tasks as assigned by the Secretary-General, Deputy Secretary-General, or Team Leader.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a law degree (JD, LLB, LLM, or equivalent) and be admitted to the Bar (or equivalent) in at least one jurisdiction. They should have a minimum of two years of relevant experience in the field of international investment law and public international law, with a solid understanding of arbitration practice and procedure. Excellent organizational, prioritization, and coordination skills are essential, along with the ability to deliver high-quality work under supervision. Candidates should demonstrate a sense of responsibility, integrity, and a positive attitude, as well as the initiative to undertake tasks that stretch their capabilities. Flexibility in adapting to changing work demands and institutional directives is also crucial.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a law degree, which can be a Juris Doctor (JD), Bachelor of Laws (LLB), Master of Laws (LLM), or an equivalent qualification. Admission to the Bar or an equivalent legal practice qualification in at least one jurisdiction is mandatory. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of international investment law and the legal frameworks governing arbitration and dispute resolution.

Experience:
The position requires at least two years of relevant experience in the legal field, particularly in international investment law and public international law. Candidates should have practical experience with arbitration practice and procedure, demonstrating their capability to handle legal matters effectively and efficiently. This level of experience is necessary to ensure that the consultant can contribute meaningfully to the ICSID legal teams and manage the responsibilities associated with the role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within ICSID. Additionally, fluency in Spanish or French is preferred, as these are the other official languages of ICSID. Proficiency in these languages will enhance the consultant's ability to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders and participate effectively in proceedings conducted in multiple languages.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a local recruitment and has a term duration of one year, with the possibility of extension. The role is full-time, and candidates should be prepared to work flexible hours to meet client needs. The World Bank Group emphasizes its commitment to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all applicants are treated equally regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The organization also highlights its core competencies, which include a sense of urgency, thoughtful risk-taking, and empowerment and accountability, all of which are essential for success in this role.