Counsel (Institutional and Administrative Law)

Job Vacancy | Friday, August 14, 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 to the Office of the General Counsel (OGC), ADB's legal department. OGC provides legal and policy advice to ADB's Board of Directors, its Management, and client departments on operational and administrative matters and advises on methods to limit ADB's risk exposure. It prepares documents that define the legal rights or obligations of ADB, including financing and investment contracts.

You will be based at our Headquarters in Manila, Philippines and relocation is required. All reasonable relocation expenses will be covered.

You will report to an Assistant General Counsel and will oversee Junior team members.

The position title on the appointment is “Counsel”.

Your Role

The Counsel supports OGC in achieving its key result areas by providing legal advice and documentation support to institutional and administrative matters and other operational and other advisory work. The Counsel will report to an Assistant General Counsel who leads a team of lawyers handling similar matters working with teams across ADB and its operations.

You will:

a. You will provide Legal Advice and Support on:

• Institutional and administrative matters such as: ADB's personnel policies, which may include policies on employment conditions, compensation and benefits, pension governance and administration matters. Personnel matters, which may include staff grievances, disciplinary procedures, appeals to the Appeals Committee, and applications to the ADB Administrative Tribunal.

• Administrative law matters and legal issues affecting ADB Headquarters, Resident Missions and Representative Offices in ADB member countries.

• Privileges and immunities of ADB and its personnel in member countries, as set forth in the ADB Charter and in host country agreements. Matters arising concerning ADB's membership, decision-making organs, and ADB's Annual Meetings.

• Implement treaties and other agreements concluded by ADB on institutional matters.

• Policies on artificial intelligence, data privacy and data protection, and legal aspects of the management of ADB's information technology systems.

• Review laws and regulations applicable to specified matters.

• Prepare legal documentation and conduct legal research on the above matters, and performing other tasks as assigned, including special projects supporting OGC's overall operations.

b. Knowledge Sharing

• Participate in relevant internal and external training, conferences and other activities for advocacy, knowledge building and dissemination.

c. Staff Supervision

• Lead reporting staff with clear guidance, performance monitoring, feedback, and development opportunities.

Qualifications

You will need:

• A University degree in law and admission as a lawyer in one or more of ADB's member countries, preferably at post-graduate level or its equivalent.

• At least 6 years of relevant legal experience, including at least 3 years of legal experience working in international organizations on human resources, employment, governance, and administrative law matters.

• Advance written and verbal communication skills in English, with the ability to present and defend legal arguments, demonstrate core competencies, and collaborate within multicultural and multidisciplinary teams. Able to inspire trust and promote a culture trust, and openness. International experience working in several countries.

• Please refer to the link for ADB Competency Framework for Technical International Staff Grade 1 (TI1).

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.

• Housing and education allowance (if applicable)

• Expatriate benefits (if applicable)

• Relocation (if applicable)

• 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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