Senior Legal Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) is a member of the World Bank Group and is recognized as the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. Established to promote economic development by encouraging private sector investment, IFC operates in over 100 countries worldwide. The organization leverages its capital, expertise, and influence to create markets and opportunities in developing countries. In fiscal year 2024, IFC committed a record US$56 billion to private companies and financial institutions in these regions, aiming to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity amidst global crises. For more information about IFC's mission and operations, visit their official website at www.ifc.org.

Job Overview:
The Senior Legal Assistant position is situated within the Legal Department of IFC, known as CLED, which operates under the guidance of the Vice President and General Counsel. This department is tasked with providing comprehensive legal and policy advice to the IFC Board, Management, and various client departments on a range of operational, advisory, and corporate matters. The role is crucial in supporting client departments in delivering IFC’s annual financing program for private sector projects in emerging markets, managing project portfolios, and advising on structured finance products, public-private partnerships, and carbon finance transactions. The Senior Legal Assistant will play a vital role in facilitating these processes and ensuring compliance with legal standards and practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Legal Assistant will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to: preparing supporting documentation for both internal and external matters such as powers of attorney, proxies, and signature designations; assisting in-house counsel with the preparation and review of legal documentation, including routine amendments and consents; liaising with external counsel as necessary; attending to the signing of transaction documents and ensuring the completion of conditions for disbursement; filing transaction documents in accordance with IFC guidelines; performing routine portfolio administration for IFC’s debt and equity investments; reviewing transaction documents for advisory programs under supervision; assisting with general advisory matters; identifying and analyzing legal and policy issues related to investment or advisory projects; and contributing to CLED’s Knowledge Management objectives.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Senior Legal Assistant position should possess a degree in Law, Business, or a similar relevant field. A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience is preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. Strong oral and written communication skills in English are essential, with proficiency in French being preferred. Candidates should demonstrate excellent analytical and research skills, the ability to manage multiple assignments effectively, and the capacity to work independently while also being a collaborative team member in a multicultural environment. Proficiency in word processing and computer skills, particularly in using information databases and internet resources, is also required.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate should have a degree in Law, Business, or a related field. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary legal knowledge and understanding of business principles that are critical for the role of Senior Legal Assistant.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in legal assistance or a related field. This experience should ideally include exposure to legal documentation, project management, and advisory services, enabling the candidate to handle the diverse range of issues that may arise in the role.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization. Additionally, knowledge of French is preferred, which would be beneficial in facilitating communication with French-speaking stakeholders and clients.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years. The role is full-time and based in Johannesburg, South Africa. 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 equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.