Grade: IS - 8
Deadline: 28 September 2022 (11:59 PM KST)
Location: Songdo, Incheon, South Korea
Job Category: International
Salary: USD 204,700 net (plus attractive benefits, that include the following allowances (as appliable): Relocation, dependency, education assistance and home country travel)
Recruitment for this position will be managed by an External Recruitment firm.
The mission of the Green Climate Fund is to assist developing countries to respond to climate change while bringing prosperity to their people. Established in 2010, the GCF invests in transformational climate projects in the developing world. The Fund makes an ambitious contribution to global climate action and channels significant financial resources into developing countries to help build low-emission and climate-resilient societies. It is country-driven and undertakes actions that reflect the circumstances of each country concerned and its national aspirations. The GCF is a key enabler of the 2015 Paris Agreement on Climate Change. Since its establishment, the GCF has approved 200 projects in 141 countries and has committed USD 10 billion in climate finance. In addition, it has built up an extensive program to support developing countries to identify their needs, in particular, those who are most vulnerable to climate change impacts. The GCF’s diverse workforce is advancing its mission from its headquarters in South Korea. Our talented staff makes unique contributions to the Fund, enriching the institution through their combined expertise and professional commitment.
Position Objective
The General Counsel shall be responsible for all legal support functions, including managing the Office of the General Counsel, drafting of agreements with accredited entities, readiness grant recipients or delivery partners and if applicable, executing entities. He/she shall lead the further development of internal rules and procedures for the various operations of the GCF and perform such other functions as required by the Executive Director or the Board.
As a senior officer, she/he will be part of the Secretariat's Senior Management Team, led by the Executive Director.
Duties and responsibilities
Purpose
Under the guidance of the Executive Director and in collaboration with other Directors, prepare all legal documents required by the Board and its committees and panels and ensure they are coherent with the legal framework of the GCF.
Lead second level legal due diligence process for funded projects and programmes.
Advise the Executive Director, Executive Team, and Board members on legal matters regarding Board proceedings, and on any substantive matters involving legal, strategic, or policy matters which may warrant a response by the General Counsel.
Support the entire GCF in all legal matters, including regarding contracting with third parties.
Represent GCF in litigation, including international arbitration.
Lead GCF’s efforts on obtaining universal privileges and immunities.
Engagement
Establish and maintain effective relationships with the Government of the Republic of Korea, as the host country of the Fund.
Advise the Executive Director and the Board on the interpretation of legal documents to ensure that actions taken are legally sound.
Represent the Secretariat at meetings with external bodies to ensure that the legal aspects of any decisions made are in conjunction with the legal framework of the GCF.
Delivery
As a member of the Secretariat's Senior Management Team, participate in management and decision-making.
Keep abreast of developments in the legal field, especially in relation to multilateral finance and environmental law which might affect the Fund and prepare reports on relevant matters.
Required experience and qualifications*
Juris Doctor, LLB, or equivalent law degree; qualification to practise law in at least one jurisdiction. Additional LLM degree an advantage.
A minimum of 15 years of relevant experience in international legal practice, of which at least 5 years as General Counsel at an international fund or financial institution.
Experience in, or working with, developing countries.
Demonstrated capability to apply sound legal judgement and strategic thinking to complex legal matters as they relate to the GCF.
Ability to draft and review legal texts.
Excellent organizational skills and comfortable in working in a fast paced and evolving environment.
Proven analytical skills with creative solutions to legal challenges.
Demonstrated experience with prioritizing multiple assignments, meeting tight deadlines, and willingness to be flexible in a fast-paced and evolving environment.
Demonstrated experience of successful leadership and mentoring of professional and support staff.
Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability and personality to work collaboratively, accept responsibility, and motivate colleagues.
Sensitivity to political, and respect for cultural, factors.
Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are essential for this position; knowledge of another UN language an advantage.
*The person assessed by the Selection Panel as most suitable for the position will be proposed for appointment. Selection among short-listed candidates will also take into account performance at interview, appropriate testing, and references. Applications from women and nationals of developing countries are strongly encouraged.
This vacancy is archived.