Associate Legal Officer (Institutional and Administrative Law)
Job Vacancy | Tuesday, February 24, 2026
| Reference Number | 260230 |
|---|---|
| Position Grade | TL4 |
| Department | Office of the General Counsel |
| Division | Office of the General Counsel |
| Location | Asian Development Bank Headquarters |
| Date Posted | Tuesday, February 24, 2026 |
| Closing Date | Tuesday, March 10, 2026 11:59 p.m. (2359 Manila Time, 0800 GMT) |
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.
The position title on appointment is "Associate Legal Officer".
Your Role
As Associate Legal Officer, you will support the functions of the OGC by providing legal advice and documentation support on institutional and administrative matters, and other operational and advisory work as required.
You will:
a. Institutional and Administrative Matters
- Understand and apply ADB's personnel policies, which may include policies on employment conditions, compensation and benefits, pension governance and administration matters.
- Provide advice on personnel matters, which may include staff grievances, disciplinary procedures, appeals to the Appeals Committee, and applications to the ADB Administrative Tribunal.
- Provide advice on privileges and immunities of ADB and its personnel in member countries, as set forth in the ADB Charter and in host country agreements.
- Handle matters arising concerning ADB's membership, decision-making organs, and ADB's Annual Meetings.
- Handle administrative law matters affecting ADB Headquarters, and ADB's field presences in ADB member countries, such as leases, and institutional procurement;
- Implement treaties and other agreements concluded by ADB on institutional matters. Data privacy and data protection policies, and legal aspects of the management of ADB's information technology systems.
- Review local laws and regulations applicable to specified matters;· Implement treaties and other agreements concluded by ADB on institutional matters; and
- Prepare legal documentation and conducting legal research for any of the above matters.
b. Legal Research and Support
- Research legal and policy matters.
- Perform research work on legal precedents of the ADB Administrative Tribunal, and administrative tribunals of other relevant organizations. Maintain an index and summaries of relevant case law.
- Perform research work on developments at the national level which is of relevance to the organization.
- Perform other responsibilities that may be assigned.
- Undertake special projects to support OGC's operations generally.
Qualifications
You will need:
- Bachelor's degree in Law and member of the Philippine Bar, or its equivalent work experience in a multilateral financial institution; preferably with advanced training.
- Minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience, with in-depth knowledge of institutional and administrative law.
- Able to communicate, present and defend complex legal arguments and issues.
- Able to work in multi-cultural and multi-skilled teams.
- Able to inspire trust and confidence and promote a strong culture of honesty, trust and openness.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English is required.
- Please refer to the link for ADB Competency Framework for Technical Local Staff Level 4 (TL4).
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.
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ADB seeks 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.
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