Legal Officer

Job Vacancy | Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Join Our Mission to Foster Prosperity in Asia

Are you ready to make a difference in the future of Asia and be a catalyst for positive change? We are thrilled to offer a unique opportunity to become an important part of the prestigious Asian Development Bank (ADB). At ADB, our mission is simple yet powerful: to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region.

Organizational Setting and Reporting Relationship

The position is assigned within Office of the General Counsel (OGC). OGC is responsible in protecting the legal interests of ADB and advises on methods to limit ADB's risk exposure appropriately. It prepares or reviews documents which create, define, modify or limit the legal rights or obligations of ADB, including loan contracts, agreements and registration statements in relation thereto, and other contractual documents. You will be based at our Headquarters in Manila, Philippines.

You will report to the relevant Assistant General Counsel and/or designated International Staff.

Your Role

As a Legal Officer, you will support the work of Operational Business Risk and Compliance Team (OBRCU) by providing technical, research, coordination, and operational assistance to the Office of the General Counsel, working with relevant Counsel in the delivery of legal, compliance, and operational business risk advisory services. You will contribute to the effective implementation of policies, procedures, training, and knowledge management activities of the Unit.

You will:

a. Operational and Technical Support

• Provide technical and analytical support on operational business risk and compliance matters, including conflict of interest, handling of material non-public information (MNPI), client confidentiality, and business conduct standards.
• Assist in the review, tracking, and management of cases, requests, and clearances handled by OBRCU.
• Support due diligence activities through research, document review, and preparation of summaries and briefs.
• Coordinate with internal clients and maintain records, databases, and monitoring tools relevant to OBRCU work.

b. Policy, Procedure, and Knowledge Management Support

• Assist in drafting, updating, and formatting policies, procedures, guidelines, templates, and guidance notes.
• Support the maintenance of OBRCU knowledge repositories, databases, and document management systems.
• Conduct background research on regulatory developments and best practices relevant to operational business risk and compliance.

c. Training, Coordination, Administrative and Other Support

• Support the organization and delivery of internal training, briefings, and outreach activities.
• Prepare presentation materials, reports, and training documentation.
• Coordinate logistics, schedules, and communications related to OBRCU activities.
• Perform administrative and coordination tasks to support the efficient functioning of the Unit.
• Track deadlines, follow up on action items, and prepare routine reports.
• Perform other duties as assigned and reflected in the incumbent's workplan.

Qualifications

You will need:

• Bachelor's degree in law, business administration, public administration, finance, or a related field preferably with advanced training
• At least 8 years of relevant professional experience in legal, compliance, risk management, or administrative support roles.
• Experience in a legal office, compliance function, or international organization is desirable, complemented by strong research, analytical, and organizational skills, a high degree of discretion in handling sensitive and confidential information, and proficiency in standard office applications and document management systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural team environment.
• Please refer to the link for ADB Competency Framework for Technical Local Staff Level 5 (TL5)

Benefits

ADB offers a rewarding salary and a comprehensive benefits package. The salary will be based on ADB's standards and comparator markets, taking into account your qualifications and experience.

• Retirement plan
• Medical and health benefits
• Paid leave (including parental)
• Life and other insurance plans
• Staff development

Additional Information

This appointment is open to internal and external applicants.

This is a fixed-term appointment for an initial fixed period of 3 years. At the end of the initial period, this appointment may, at the option of ADB, be extended once for up to 2 years, converted to a regular appointment, or ended on its expiration date. This decision will be made in the overall interest of ADB that: (a) it will require Staff's particular blend of skills and experience in the foreseeable future; and (b) Staff's performance is satisfactory and they are suitable for further employment.

About Us

ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is headquartered in Manila and owned by 69 members—50 from the region.

ADB only hires nationals of its 69 members.

To view ADB Organizational Chart, please click here.

ADB wants to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities to work in an inclusive environment. ADB encourages all qualified candidates to apply regardless of their racial, ethnic, religious and cultural background, gender, sexual orientation or disabilities. Women are highly encouraged to apply.

Visit ADB Careers FAQ for more information.

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