Legal Assistant

3758BR

Aga Khan Development Network

The position

The Position 
Introduction. The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) is a network of private, international, non-denominational development organizations working in over 30 countries. AKDN works to improve the welfare and prospects of people in the developing world, particularly in Asia and Africa, although some of our research, education and cultural programs span both the developed and developing world. While each AKDN Agency pursues its own mandate, all of them work together in the overarching framework of the Network so that their different pursuits interact and reinforce one another.
 
The Legal Assistant will play an essential role in implementing and maintaining new legal technologies and activities both across the AKDN Agencies, and within the AKDN Legal Department with the goal of improving efficiency, efficacy, and mitigating risk. In addition, the Legal Assistant will support the ongoing development and organization of legal compliance training, including event management, and finally, support the daily work of the legal team, including administrative support. 
 
Location. Geneva, Switzerland. 

Supporting the set-up and maintenance of legal technologies, e.g., legal entity software management, matter management, contract management, etc. across AKDN in close collaboration with the legal team, third party technology providers and IT, engaging with other AKDN Agencies in Geneva, and relevant country units and external stakeholders to align on the scope and process for implementation, track and ensure delivery of agreed outputs, organize meetings and follow up on forward actions.  Supporting the ongoing development of legal compliance training, including working closely with the Head of Legal and the panel of trainers globally to understand overall training needs and goals, coordinate suitable project activities, organize meetings and ensure communication with trainers, management of associated training materials, organize related meetings and training events as needed. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate legal compliance solutions into broader organizational practices.  Support the daily work of the legal department, e.g., contract management, including management of templates; organization of legal review for sanctions, and associated legal tools; coordination of outside counsel advice, billing, etc.  Set up new and manage existing operational processes and procedures for the AKDN Legal Department to ensure efficiency and management.  Manage confidential information with discretion and in accordance with legal and ethical standards.  Provide comprehensive administrative support to the legal department, including scheduling, communication management, and document preparation. 

The requirements

Minimum 5 years of experience in administration and project management, preferably within a legal setting and with IT system projects.  Legal experience or training preferred, but not essential.  Strong tech skills and willingness to learn new technologies for enhanced collaboration and efficiency, especially legal tech tools, but also including Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint and Teams.  Proactive self-starter with excellent judgment and communication abilities.  Skilled in engaging diverse stakeholders across various cultures and seniority levels.  Knowledge of or alignment with AKDN's mission and values is beneficial.  Proficient in English; additional language skills are advantageous.  Must hold a valid work permit for Switzerland.  Willingness to travel as required

Sector

General Development

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