Director and General Counsel, MIGA

Job Posting Organization:
The Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) is a member of the World Bank Group (WBG), which was established to promote cross-border investment in developing countries. MIGA provides non-commercial risk guarantees to investors and lenders, facilitating investment in regions that may otherwise be deemed too risky. The agency aims to boost the WBG's annual guarantee issuance to $20 billion by 2030 through its newly established WBG Guarantee Platform, which consolidates products and expertise from the World Bank, International Finance Corporation (IFC), and MIGA. This platform serves as a one-stop-shop for guarantee solutions, ensuring that clients can meet their project needs and development priorities effectively. MIGA operates with a mission to enhance the economic development of its member countries by encouraging foreign investment, thereby contributing to sustainable development and poverty reduction.

Job Overview:
The Director & General Counsel (GC) at MIGA will play a pivotal role in leading the Legal, Claims, and Integrity Group (MIGLIC). Reporting directly to MIGA's Executive Vice-President (EVP), the GC will serve as the chief legal officer of the agency, overseeing the management and operation of MIGLIC and being an integral member of MIGA's Senior Management Team. The GC's responsibilities include interpreting MIGA's Convention, By-Laws, and Operational Policies, as well as managing legal documentation and institutional matters. The GC will also support the EVP in interactions with the Council of Governors and the Board of Directors, oversee membership activities, and handle host country approval requests. Additionally, the GC will draft and negotiate Contracts of Guarantee, manage disputes and claims, and provide legal advice on various institutional matters. This position requires a strong understanding of international public law and the ability to collaborate with other General Counsels within the World Bank Group on cross-cutting issues.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director & General Counsel will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Providing technical expertise as a key member of MIGA's senior management team, working closely with other members to implement the strategy of the WBG Guarantee Platform.
• Contributing to the Concept Review Committee and Project Review Committee to review and approve new projects and policies.
• Managing the legal team's delivery of transactional, portfolio, policy, and legal advice to internal and external clients regarding MIGA, IFC, and WB guarantees.
• Overseeing all disputes, restructurings, pre-claim and claim matters to maintain the development outcomes of projects.
• Leading the integrity team and advising business teams on IDD and AML/CFT risks affecting clients and transactions.
• Providing crisis management and legal advice on significant integrity matters, including litigation and complex legal issues.
• Offering thought leadership and direction to ensure departmental goals are met, including recruitment, coaching, performance evaluations, and career development of staff.
• Ensuring prudent resource management and budget allocation in line with institutional priorities.
• Strengthening relationships with key stakeholders and partners within and outside the World Bank Group, leading complex engagements to further MIGA's agenda.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Law degree (JD, LLB, SJD, or equivalent) and be admitted to the Bar (or equivalent) in at least one jurisdiction. A minimum of 15 years of relevant experience is required, with law firm or private sector corporate or multilateral bank experience considered a plus. Candidates should have relevant experience in project finance, investment protection, political risk insurance, complex commercial transactions, and insurance and guarantees. Experience in claims management and troubled loan workouts is strongly preferred. Familiarity with economic development principles, investment analysis, and insurance portfolio management is essential. A strong track record of applying international law to economic development projects in international financial institutions is advantageous, as is experience operating in emerging markets. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to conceptualize, structure, and implement projects, as well as provide intellectual leadership and manage diverse groups effectively.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Law degree (JD, LLB, SJD, or equivalent) from an accredited institution. Admission to the Bar (or equivalent) in at least one jurisdiction is mandatory. The ideal candidate will have a strong academic background in law, particularly in areas relevant to international finance, investment protection, and political risk insurance.

Experience:
The position requires at least 15 years of relevant experience in legal practice, particularly in areas such as project finance, investment protection, and political risk insurance. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing complex legal issues and providing strategic legal advice in a corporate or multilateral banking environment. Experience in claims management and navigating legal frameworks in emerging markets is highly desirable, as is a history of working in international financial institutions.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in additional languages is considered a plus, particularly those relevant to the regions in which MIGA operates, as this may enhance communication with diverse stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a term duration of 4 years. It involves international recruitment, indicating that candidates from various countries are encouraged to apply. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.