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The Legal Counsel will lead Better Cotton Initiative’s legal function during a 9-month maternity cover, providing strategic legal guidance across a complex, global operating environment. Reporting to the CEO, you will act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, including the CEO, COO, Council, and Board. You will play a key role in ensuring legal compliance, strengthening governance structures, and supporting risk management across multiple jurisdictions.
Job Responsibility:
Provide strategic legal advice to senior leadership and cross-functional teams across multiple jurisdictions
Lead the drafting, review, and negotiation of contracts, including grants, partnerships, and procurement agreements
Develop and standardise legal templates, tools, and processes across the organisation
Strengthen governance structures and support the Council and Board with legal input and documentation
Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, tax, and risk requirements across all operating regions
Identify and mitigate legal and contractual risks, providing practical and solution-oriented guidance
Oversee Better Cotton Initiative’s trademark and intellectual property portfolio
Manage relationships with external legal counsel and ensure cost-effective use of legal services
Deliver legal training and guidance to internal teams to build organisational capability and awareness
Monitor legal and regulatory developments and advise on emerging risks and implications for the organisation
Requirements:
Master’s degree in Law or equivalent legal qualification
Significant experience in contract law, governance, compliance, and risk management
Experience working in international and multi-jurisdictional environments
Fluency in English and French
Proven ability to advise senior stakeholders and operate at a strategic level
Nice to have:
Experience working in a non-profit, NGO, or international organisation
Knowledge of Swiss or European legal frameworks
Experience supporting Board or Council governance structures
Experience managing external legal counsel and advisors
Strong interest in sustainability, supply chains, or international development
What we offer:
Hybrid working – Two to three days/week in the Geneva Office
Flexible working, with core hours from 10 am to 4 pm local time
Continuous learning and development
Pension scheme
A generous annual leave package, including paid holiday, public holidays, additional paid days off during the festive season, study and exam days, and extra discretionary leave for life events such as family weddings or moving home