Associate Lawyer

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) was established to support the development of market economies in Central and Eastern Europe, the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean, and Central Asia. With a mission to promote sustainable and open market economies, EBRD has been operational since 1991 and has expanded its activities to include six countries in the Sub-Saharan Africa region. The bank deploys over €15 billion in financing annually and is a leader in climate finance, focusing on investments in renewable energy, green bonds, and energy efficiency programs. EBRD also supports small and medium-sized enterprises, infrastructure projects, and local manufacturers, emphasizing sustainable development in the private sector. The Office of the General Counsel (OGC) plays a crucial role in handling all legal aspects of EBRD's lending and investment transactions, providing legal advice for institutional matters, and supporting policy development through its legal transition program.

Job Overview:
The Associate Lawyer position within EBRD’s Office of the General Counsel (OGC) is designed for an outstanding legal professional who will contribute to the bank's operations in various jurisdictions. The role is pivotal in supporting EBRD's mission to foster sustainable market economies. The Associate will be part of the Banking Operations group, which is responsible for the legal aspects of EBRD’s lending and investment operations. This position offers a unique opportunity to engage with a diverse range of legal issues, requiring a blend of country-specific knowledge, language skills, and academic expertise. The Associate will be expected to facilitate operations across multiple countries, including Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovak Republic, and Slovenia, as Warsaw is set to become one of the seven Regional Client Delivery Hubs of EBRD. The successful candidate will be involved in various legal tasks, including conducting legal research, drafting and negotiating legal documentation, and providing legal advice on institutional matters.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate Lawyer will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including but not limited to: handling legal aspects of EBRD’s lending and investment operations, conducting thorough legal research, drafting and negotiating legal documents, providing legal advice on institutional and administrative matters, and supporting policy development initiatives. The Associate will also be expected to manage multiple projects concurrently, ensuring timely follow-up and prioritization of tasks. Additionally, the role involves collaborating with various stakeholders, including financial, political, and public sector experts, to ensure effective legal support for EBRD's operations. The Associate will contribute to the legal transition program and may be involved in training and mentoring junior staff within the OGC.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Associate Lawyer position are expected to possess a law degree from a leading university, with a preference for those holding a (post-)graduate degree. A minimum of 3-5 years of relevant work experience as a lawyer in private practice or within an in-house legal team is required. Familiarity with the areas of practice relevant to EBRD’s operations, including legal research, drafting, and negotiation, is essential. Professional experience in the EBRD's countries of operations or in multiple jurisdictions is considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate excellent project management skills, interpersonal and communication abilities, and a client-focused approach.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a law degree from a reputable university. A (post-)graduate degree in law is preferred, indicating a higher level of academic achievement and specialization in relevant legal fields. Candidates should have a strong foundation in legal principles and practices, particularly those applicable to international finance and development.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have between 3 to 5 years of prior work experience as a lawyer. This experience should ideally be gained in private practice or within an in-house legal team, ensuring familiarity with the legal frameworks and practices relevant to EBRD’s operations. Experience in multiple jurisdictions or within the EBRD's countries of operations is highly advantageous and will be considered a significant asset.

Languages:
A strong command of written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, fluency in one or more of the key languages relevant to the work in the Bank’s countries and regions of operations is preferred. This linguistic capability will enhance the Associate's ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders and contribute to EBRD's mission.

Additional Notes:
The Associate Lawyer position is a fixed-term contract lasting for three years. The role is based in Warsaw, Poland, which is expected to serve as one of EBRD's Regional Client Delivery Hubs. The EBRD promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background. The bank offers a hybrid workplace model that emphasizes flexibility and employee wellbeing, along with a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits. Candidates from a wide range of jurisdictions are eligible to apply, reflecting EBRD's commitment to diversity and inclusion.