General Counsel

Job Posting Organization:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is a leading multilateral development bank established in 1966, headquartered in Manila, Philippines. ADB is owned by 69 members, with 50 of them from the Asia-Pacific region. The organization is dedicated to fostering inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. ADB collaborates with its members and partners to address complex challenges, utilizing innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to improve lives, build quality infrastructure, and protect the environment. ADB is committed to creating an inclusive work environment where all individuals are treated with respect and given equal opportunities, encouraging applications from diverse backgrounds, including women and individuals with disabilities.

Job Overview:
The General Counsel (GC) position at ADB is a pivotal role within the Office of the General Counsel (OGC), which serves as the legal department of the bank. The GC is responsible for providing comprehensive legal advice and guidance to ADB's Board of Directors, Management, and various departments on operational and administrative matters. The role involves overseeing the preparation of legal documents that define ADB's rights and obligations, including financing and investment contracts. The GC will lead the strategic direction of OGC, ensuring that it aligns with ADB's overall goals and contributes effectively to the organization's operations. This includes managing legal risks, providing timely legal advice, and ensuring compliance with ADB policies and regulations. The GC will also play a key role in capacity building for member countries through legal and policy reform initiatives, thereby enhancing ADB's impact in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The General Counsel will have a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Leadership and Strategic Management: Establishing and cascading OGC's vision and goals in alignment with ADB's strategic objectives. Advising senior management on legal, regulatory, governance, and reputational issues.
• Operational Work: Managing OGC's operations, providing legal advice on sovereign and non-sovereign operations, and anticipating legal risks.
• Policies and Procedures: Supporting policy initiatives to improve ADB operations and streamlining business processes.
• Office Management: Overseeing performance management within OGC, including staff motivation and budget management.
• Internal Relations: Facilitating coordination between Management and the Board of Directors, and keeping senior management informed of developments.
• Staff Supervision: Leading multidisciplinary teams, managing performance, and providing mentoring and development opportunities for staff.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree in Law or an equivalent qualification, along with at least 10 years of specialized experience relevant to the position. Admission as a lawyer in one or more ADB member countries is also required. The ideal candidate will have at least 20 years of relevant legal experience post-bar admission, proven leadership skills, and experience managing diverse teams. A strong understanding of ADB's operational policies and programs, as well as experience in legal negotiations, is highly desirable. Candidates should also demonstrate effective communication skills with various stakeholders, including staff, management, and external counterparts.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master's Degree in Law or an equivalent qualification. Candidates with a university degree and significant relevant experience may also be considered. Admission as a lawyer in one or more ADB member countries is essential for this role.

Experience:
The General Counsel position requires a minimum of 20 years of relevant legal experience after bar admission. Candidates should have substantial experience in high-level legal negotiations and a strong understanding of the operational policies and programs of ADB or similar multilateral development organizations. International experience in finance, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, is also desirable.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills required. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term managerial appointment for an initial period of 3 years, with the possibility of renewal based on ADB's needs and the staff's competencies. The position is open to both internal and external applicants. ADB offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, including housing and education allowances, expatriate benefits, relocation assistance, retirement plans, medical and health benefits, paid leave, and life insurance plans. ADB is committed to diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates.