Legal Officer (Nonsovereign)

Job Vacancy | Monday, March 23, 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 Assistant General Counsel and/or designated Technical International Staff.

The position title on appointment is "Legal Officer"

Your Role

As Legal Officer, you will provide independent and in depth legal advice and analytical support in the negotiating, processing and administration of nonsovereign financing arrangements, in the development of model documentation for nonsovereign transactions and other legal matters.

You will:

• Provide independent and in-depth advice and support OGC counsels on legal aspects relating to nonsovereign operations.
• Prepare draft documents and advice on legal aspects of nonsovereign operations, including legal due diligence, preparation of investment documentation, and preparing all other legal documents consistent with ADB's internal law, lending and other operational policies.
• Review and update model documentation for all ADB mandate and country framework agreements related to non-sovereign operations.
• Obtain and review legal origination and administration documents, including legislation that may affect non-sovereign projects. Assist deal teams in identifying legal issues that may arise from project design, including issues related to environmental and social safeguards.
• Assist deal teams in negotiations with clients, both in preparing for such negotiations and taking action further to such negotiation.
• Advise and provide support on structuring specialized financial intermediation arrangements between ADB and financial institutions undertaking microfinance transactions.
• Assists deal teams in Office of Risk Management (ORM) and Private Sector Operations Department (PSOD) with recovery procedures, including enforcement of security and litigation; loan restructuring and work-out matters; and disposals of ADB investments.
• Reviews transaction advisory services documents, government procedures in DMCs, risk assessment documents and procurement matters.
• Processes disbursements for nonsovereign loans and equity investments and reviews waiver, closing, and ongoing documentation matters.
• Identifies law and policy reform (LPR) issues and contributes to the development of LPR proposals and solutions.
• Contributes to OGC advice on enhancing ADB operational policies, participates in interdepartmental analysis of complex legal issues, conducts legal and policy research on nonsovereign projects, and undertakes other assigned duties and special projects in support of OGC operations.

Qualifications

You will need:

• Bachelor's degree in Law and related fields, preferably with advanced training. Member of Philippine Bar is preferred.
• At least 8 years relevant experience in entire project cycle from processing to implementation as well as in research-related activities.
• Relevant knowledge of project documentation and conducting legal due diligence.
• Strong analytical and time-management skills, ability to handle multiple projects, collaborate effectively with legal and cross-departmental teams in a multilateral setting.
• 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 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.

Visit ADB Careers FAQ for more information.

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