Associate, Office of the General Counsel

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) was established in 1991 with the mission to foster the transition towards open market-oriented economies and to promote private and entrepreneurial initiative in the countries where it operates. EBRD is headquartered in London and has a presence in over 30 countries across Central and Eastern Europe, the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean, and Central Asia. Recently, it has expanded its operations to specific countries in Sub-Saharan Africa. The bank deploys more than €15 billion in financing each year and is recognized as 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.

Job Overview:
The Associate position within the Office of the General Counsel (OGC) at EBRD is a pivotal role that supports the bank's mission of building sustainable and open market economies. The OGC is responsible for handling all legal aspects of EBRD’s lending and investment transactions, providing legal advice on institutional and administrative matters, and supporting policy development through its legal transition program. The Associate will contribute their country, language, and academic knowledge to facilitate the institution's operations, particularly as Cairo is set to become one of the seven Regional Client Delivery Hubs for EBRD, covering operations in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Morocco, Tunisia, West Bank & Gaza, and Iraq. This role offers a unique opportunity to engage with diverse legal challenges and contribute to impactful projects in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate will be assigned to the OGC’s Banking Operations group, which is responsible for managing the legal aspects of EBRD’s lending and investment operations. Key responsibilities include conducting legal research, drafting and negotiating legal documentation, and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The Associate will work closely with various stakeholders, including project teams and external legal advisors, to provide comprehensive legal support throughout the transaction lifecycle. Additionally, the role involves monitoring ongoing projects, managing priorities under time constraints, and contributing to the development of legal strategies that align with EBRD’s objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates 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 debt and equity transactions, as well as experience in conducting legal research and drafting legal documents, 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, the ability to manage multiple activities concurrently, and a strong client focus.

Educational Background:
A law degree from a recognized institution is mandatory, with a preference for candidates who also hold a (post-)graduate degree. This educational background should provide a solid foundation in legal principles and practices relevant to the banking and finance sectors.

Experience:
Candidates should have between 3 to 5 years of prior work experience as a lawyer, which can be gained in private practice or as part of an in-house legal team. Experience in handling legal matters related to lending and investment operations is crucial, as is familiarity with the legal frameworks of the EBRD’s countries of operations.

Languages:
A strong command of written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the EBRD’s operational regions would be considered advantageous, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract lasting for 3 years. It is essential for candidates to demonstrate a readiness to work in the Bank’s countries and regions of operations, reflecting a keen interest in international development. The EBRD promotes a hybrid workplace model that emphasizes flexibility and inclusivity, providing a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits to support employee wellbeing.