Senior Legal Officer (Private Sector)

Organizational Context

IFAD is an international financial institution and UN agency focused on eradicating rural poverty through investments in agricultural productivity and rural incomes. The Office of General Counsel (LEG), within the Office of Legal and Governance (OLG), provides strategic leadership and authoritative legal advice to IFAD's Management and Governing Bodies on all legal aspects of its operations, administration, and compliance, including resource mobilization and project implementation in Member States.

Job Purpose

To provide high-quality legal advice and services in general legal matters and specialized areas, particularly private sector/non-sovereign operations (loans, co-financing, blended finance, guarantees, risk-sharing, equity), to various internal clients. The role contributes to developing and applying IFAD's legal framework for its corporate, institutional, and operational activities, supporting program goals through legal research, analysis, and instrument application.

Responsibilities

Conduct legal research and analysis, interpreting and drafting legal instruments, and participating in discussions on new products and policies. Provide legal advice and opinions on complex issues, developing pragmatic solutions, and preparing detailed analyses for management and committees. Prepare and review legal instruments such as agreements, contracts, and internal regulations. Contribute to legal knowledge management, providing technical support, identifying best practices, and delivering training. Represent IFAD in negotiations, liaise with external partners, and prepare documents for international bodies. Manage assigned resources, including supervising legal officers and administrative staff, and overseeing outside counsel.

Work Experience

Minimum eight years of progressively responsible professional experience in International Organizations, financial institutions, or International Financial Institutions, with at least three years in a multicultural or global-scope organization. Requires experience applying legal knowledge to national and international legislation and a recognized qualification to practice law in at least one Member State jurisdiction (civil or common law).

Skills

Expertise in development finance, IFAD governance and mandate, resource mobilization strategies, and UN/IFI documentation and processes. Strong legal research, interpretation, and analysis skills. Proven ability to provide comprehensive legal advice and legal drafting for various instruments (financing agreements, policies, rules). Proficient in identifying and managing legal, reputational, and ethical risks. Specific legal topical expertise relevant to the role. Demonstrated performance management and leadership skills, including mentoring and guiding teams. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a professional and diplomatic approach. Additional skills include advocacy, project coordination, stakeholder management, and strategy implementation.

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