Principal, Principal Counsel (London, GB)

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Review: Principal, Principal Counsel - Office of the General Counsel, London

This opportunity for a Principal, Principal Counsel within the Office of the General Counsel in London presents a significant career advancement for experienced legal professionals. It offers a chance to operate at a senior level within a respected international financial institution, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Impactful Legal Work: You will be at the forefront of providing crucial legal and policy advice on a diverse range of matters. This includes direct involvement in litigation, arbitration, and policy development, allowing you to shape the legal framework of a major international organisation.
• Policy Development and Influence: This role goes beyond traditional legal advisory. You'll have the opportunity to contribute to the interpretation, application, drafting, and development of the Bank's policies and legal framework. This is an excellent avenue for those who wish to influence organisational direction.
• International Exposure: Working within the EBRD offers unparalleled exposure to international administrative law, international law, and trans-national legal issues. If you thrive in a global environment and enjoy navigating complex cross-border legal landscapes, this role is ideal.
• Leadership and Mentorship: The position involves supervising and mentoring junior legal staff, including Interns, Associates, and Senior Associates. This is a fantastic opportunity to hone your leadership skills and contribute to the development of future legal talent.
• Strategic Contribution: You will actively participate in inter-departmental working groups and task forces, contributing to the Bank's strategic initiatives. This ensures your work has a broader organisational impact.
• Professional Development: The description highlights engagement with knowledge management activities, including preparing policy briefs and updating legal resources. This fosters continuous learning and positions you as an expert in your field.
• Diverse and Inclusive Culture: The EBRD emphasizes its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and innovation. This suggests a supportive and dynamic work environment where varied perspectives are valued, fostering a culture of collaboration and growth.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Experience Requirements: A minimum of seven years of relevant experience is essential, ideally gained in an international environment. Experience with international administrative law, international law, or trans-national legal issues is highly valued.
• Legal Qualifications: A university law degree in a relevant field is a prerequisite, along with a post-graduate law degree or significant relevant professional legal experience. Admission or qualification to practice law in at least one jurisdiction is preferred, and experience in both civil and common law systems may be advantageous.
• Understanding of International Organisations: A deep understanding of the specificities of international organisations is crucial. Prior professional experience within such an organisation will be a significant asset.
• Internal Justice Systems: Experience with the internal justice systems of international organisations is mentioned as an advantage, indicating a focus on internal dispute resolution processes.
• Language Proficiency: Excellent command of the English language, particularly in drafting and negotiating legal documents, is a must. Knowledge of another official EBRD language or a language of an EBRD country of operations would be a distinct advantage.
• Policy and Procedural Acumen: A thorough understanding of the Bank's specific policies and operating procedures within the team's area of responsibility is critical for success.
• High Standards: The role demands the highest standards in drafting and negotiating legal documentation, ensuring the protection of the EBRD's interests and compliance with its mandate and procedures.

In summary, this Principal, Principal Counsel role is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned legal professional seeking to make a substantial impact within a globally recognised institution. It offers a blend of challenging legal work, policy influence, leadership development, and exposure to international complexities within a supportive and forward-thinking environment. Candidates who possess a strong international legal background and a keen understanding of organisational dynamics will find this role particularly rewarding and a significant step in their career trajectory.