Counsel - Legal Services Unit

About the role

The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) is hiring a Counsel within its Legal Services unit, reporting under the General Counsel and working with other members of the Legal Service team. The role provides legal advice to the Board, management, departments and services on all legal matters relating to the Bank's activities, and develops legal structures supporting the Bank's operations. It also provides legal research and assistance to the central banking community. The position is based in Basel, Switzerland, on a 3-year fixed-term contract, and the BIS welcomes applications from candidates of all nationalities; relocation support is available for the successful candidate and their dependents.

Key responsibilities

• Provide legal advice and guidance at all levels of the Bank on the legal structure and texts governing the Bank, its staff and its operations, taking account of its status as an international organization.
• Advise and assist in preventing, defending and settling disputes and litigation involving the Bank, retaining and directing outside counsel where appropriate.
• Maintain contact with public authorities and international institutions in Switzerland and elsewhere on the Bank's status and legal matters.
• Take part in committee and working group activities and carry out legal research of interest to the Bank and the central banking community.

Required profile

• Master's level law qualification or equivalent.
• At least 5 years' experience as an attorney, preferably with a central bank and/or international financial institution in the public or private sector.
• International experience in legal issues relevant to central banks and/or international institutions.
• Ability to work independently on technically complex files.

Required skills

• Strong analytical, interpersonal and communication skills.
• Excellent English drafting skills; knowledge of German and/or French is an advantage.

What we offer

• Hybrid working with home office and working-from-abroad days.
• Relocation support for the successful candidate and their dependents.
• A competitive compensation and benefits package, including childcare and education allowances where applicable.