Counsel (Sovereign Operations)

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 is known for its innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships that aim to transform lives and build quality infrastructure while safeguarding the planet.

Job Overview:
The Counsel position is situated within the Office of the General Counsel (OGC) at ADB, which is responsible for providing legal and policy advice to ADB's Board of Directors, Management, and client departments. The Counsel will play a crucial role in supporting ADB's sovereign operations by offering legal advice and support for the origination, processing, and administration of loan and technical assistance (TA) projects. This role also involves contributing to the design and implementation of TA projects under OGC's Law and Policy Reform Program and participating in knowledge-sharing activities. The Counsel will report to an Assistant General Counsel and will oversee junior team members, ensuring that legal advice is aligned with ADB's mission and strategic objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Counsel will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Providing legal advice and support for ADB's sovereign operations in the Asia-Pacific region, which encompasses loan reviews, financing structures, legal agreements, due diligence, negotiations, procurement reviews, and project administration.
• Supporting technical assistance projects aimed at development, transactional support, and knowledge-building in accordance with ADB's Strategy 203
• Contributing to the development of ADB policies related to sovereign operations, including financing, safeguards, financial management, and procurement.
• Supporting OGC's Law and Policy Reform Program by focusing on areas such as climate change, gender equity, digital economy, commercial law, judicial capacity, and anti-money laundering.
• Promoting policy and law development through TA projects, stakeholder consultations, and capacity-building efforts at both bilateral and regional levels.
• Monitoring global regulatory changes that impact ADB's climate-related activities and participating in training, conferences, and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
• Preparing knowledge papers and articles on legal issues and OGC priority areas.
• Leading and supervising reporting staff by providing clear guidance, performance monitoring, feedback, and development opportunities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a University degree in Law (or equivalent) with lawyer admission in an ADB member country, preferably at the post-graduate level or its equivalent. Additionally, candidates should have at least 6 years of relevant legal experience in project formulation, international financing agreements, and legal analysis within multilateral institutions. Proficiency in the English language is essential for presenting and defending legal arguments, both in written and verbal forms. Experience working in multicultural teams is also required, along with the ability to inspire trust and foster a culture of cooperation and openness, supported by international experience across multiple countries.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a University degree in Law or an equivalent qualification. Candidates with a post-graduate degree in Law or its equivalent are preferred, as this level of education is likely to provide the necessary depth of knowledge and understanding of complex legal issues relevant to the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant legal experience. This experience should encompass project formulation, international financing agreements, and legal analysis specifically within the context of multilateral institutions. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of legal frameworks and practices that govern sovereign operations and international financing.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as the Counsel will need to present and defend legal arguments effectively. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages may be considered advantageous, particularly if they are relevant to ADB's member countries or operational regions.

Additional Notes:
This appointment is a fixed-term position for an initial period of 3 years, with the possibility of extension for up to 2 additional years, conversion to a regular appointment, or termination at the end of the initial period based on ADB's needs and the staff member's performance. The position is full-time, and relocation to Manila is required, with all reasonable relocation expenses covered. ADB offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including housing and education allowances (if applicable), expatriate benefits (if applicable), a retirement plan, medical and health benefits, paid leave (including parental leave), life and other insurance plans, and opportunities for staff development.