Counsel

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a unique global partnership of five institutions established with the mission to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. Founded in 1944, the organization has grown to include 189 member countries and operates more than 120 offices worldwide. The WBG is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, focusing on solving the world’s greatest development challenges through partnerships with public and private sectors, investment in groundbreaking projects, and leveraging data, research, and technology to drive transformative change globally. For more information, visit www.worldbank.org.

Job Overview:
The Counsel position is situated within the Ethics Advice & Early Interventions Department, specifically in the Anti-Harassment and Anti-Discrimination Unit (AHAD). The primary function of this role is to address reports of harassment, sexual harassment, exploitation, abuse, and discrimination based on race and other identity characteristics. The Counsel will provide guidance to management on preventing and addressing such behaviors, ensuring a values-based workplace culture that aligns with the WBG’s ethical standards. The Counsel will report to the Manager of AHAD and will work under the supervision of the Anti-Harassment and Anti-Discrimination Coordinator. This role is critical in fostering a safe and inclusive work environment by reviewing allegations of discrimination, particularly racial discrimination, and recommending appropriate actions based on the assessments of related information and data.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Counsel will be responsible for a variety of duties including: reviewing allegations of discrimination, particularly focusing on racial discrimination involving WBG staff; assessing related information and data to recommend whether matters should be handled by AHAD, referred to the Investigation unit for formal review, or directed to other EIJ resources such as mediation or peer review services. The Counsel will provide confidential guidance and advice to staff who have experienced or witnessed discrimination, outlining available options for addressing concerns, and advising managers on how to effectively manage and prevent racial discrimination. Additionally, the Counsel will prepare opinions and other case-related correspondence, including sensitive documents and talking points for interventions. Conducting post-resolution monitoring following interventions, investigations, or disciplinary actions is also a key responsibility, ensuring that feedback is sought from affected staff to prevent recurrence of problematic behavior and address concerns related to retaliation. The Counsel will maintain and track inquiries and responses in the case management system to support accurate record keeping and will develop and deliver training and outreach to WBG staff on discrimination, with a specific focus on racial discrimination.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent in law, alternative dispute resolution, or another relevant field, or have equivalent experience. Additionally, a minimum of five years of substantial professional experience in workplace conflict resolution, investigation, law, or a related area is required. Experience in an international organization is desirable, as is experience addressing allegations of racism and/or other forms of discrimination through formal or informal mechanisms. Knowledge of workplace discrimination prevention frameworks and conflict resolution mechanisms is essential. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to analyze statistical data to identify trends and systemic issues and propose concrete solutions.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master’s degree or equivalent in law, alternative dispute resolution, or a related field. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of workplace conflict resolution and discrimination issues.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least five years of substantial professional experience in workplace conflict resolution, investigation, law, or a related area. Experience in an international organization is highly desirable, as it provides a broader understanding of the global context in which the World Bank operates. Candidates should also have experience addressing allegations of racism and other forms of discrimination, which is critical for the role.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, although specific preferred languages are not listed in the job description.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the GF grade and has a term duration of four years. It is part of an international recruitment effort, indicating that candidates from various countries are encouraged to apply. The World Bank Group offers comprehensive benefits, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, ensuring that there is no discrimination based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.