Legal Officer, LAC Region

Job Posting Organization:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group (WBG) and was established to promote private sector investment in developing countries. With a mission to alleviate poverty and improve living standards by fostering sustainable economic growth, IFC operates in 145 countries and has over 182 offices worldwide. The organization focuses on creating jobs and improving lives through partnerships with governments, private sector entities, and development partners. In fiscal year 2026, IFC committed a record $105.6 billion to private companies and financial institutions in developing countries, showcasing its significant role in global development.

Job Overview:
The Legal Officer position at IFC is crucial for supporting the organization's growing activities in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). The successful candidate will be responsible for providing legal and policy advice to the IFC Board, Management, and client departments on various operational, advisory, and corporate matters. This role requires the ability to work autonomously and exercise independent judgment on straightforward financing transactions, advisory projects, and upstream engagements. The Legal Officer will also be involved in advising internal clients during the business development stage, drafting and negotiating legal documents, and providing support on more complex transactions alongside senior colleagues. The position demands a thorough understanding of legal issues related to commercial and company law, banking and finance, and the ability to navigate the legal landscape in LAC.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Officer will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including overseeing the work produced by junior staff in the Legal Department, managing portfolio work such as preparing amendment and waiver documents, and conducting legal and IFC policy research. The candidate must be proficient in legal research and possess strong analytical skills to address a wide range of legal issues. Effective communication is essential, as the Legal Officer will interact with colleagues in Washington and LAC offices, explain IFC's approach to legal clauses, and articulate instructions to external counsel. The role also involves mentoring junior staff and participating in departmental initiatives and training programs. The candidate should be able to manage multiple projects simultaneously and demonstrate good legal judgment with limited supervision.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Juris Doctor, LLB, or equivalent law degree from a recognized university and be qualified to practice law in at least one jurisdiction. An LLM or other relevant postgraduate degree is advantageous. A minimum of four years of relevant legal experience is required, preferably gained at a local or international law firm, international financial institution, or corporation with significant international business operations. Experience in advising on cross-border transactions, particularly in international finance, project finance, and corporate finance, is highly desirable. The candidate should demonstrate a commitment to core values such as excellence, teamwork, diversity, and integrity, and possess the ability to advise business teams on legal risks and complex legal issues.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Juris Doctor, LLB, or equivalent law degree from a recognized institution. Candidates should also have qualifications to practice law in at least one jurisdiction. Additional qualifications such as an LLM or other relevant postgraduate degrees are considered beneficial and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
The position requires at least four years of relevant legal experience following the completion of the law degree. This experience should be gained in settings such as local or international law firms, international financial institutions, or corporations with significant international business operations. Experience in advising on cross-border transactions and working in emerging markets is highly desirable, as it demonstrates the candidate's ability to navigate complex legal environments and provide sound legal advice in diverse contexts.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Additionally, candidates should have excellent verbal and written communication skills in Portuguese, as this is essential for interacting with local clients and stakeholders. Proficiency in Spanish is considered an advantage, as it enhances the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in the LAC region and engage with a broader range of clients and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an Open-Ended Staff (OPEN-OP) role, indicating that it is a permanent position within the organization. The recruitment type is local, meaning that candidates should ideally be residents of Brazil or the LAC region. The closing date for applications is set for September 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM UTC. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life, and disability insurance, as well as paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all candidates are treated fairly and without discrimination based on gender, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.