Legal Associate

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position Title: Legal Associate
Department: Legal Office – Office of the Chairman
Reports to: Chief Legal Counsel
Supervises: Senior Paralegal, Paralegal
Location: NHQ
Status: Full-Time

Purpose Statement

The Legal Associate plays a vital role in supporting the legal functions of the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) by providing accurate and timely legal services across a broad range of operational, regulatory, and institutional matters. This position ensures that all contracts, policies, and organizational actions comply with applicable laws, internal governance standards, and the directives of the Board of Governors. Through legal research, drafting, and coordination, the Legal Associate contributes to effective risk management, sound decision-making, and the overall integrity of PRC’s humanitarian mission.

Key Result Area: Duties and Responsibilities

Legal Document Preparation and Review

• Draft, review, and revise contracts, agreements, deeds of donation/acceptance, and other legal instruments.
• Coordinate with relevant departments to gather information necessary for legal document preparation.
• Ensure that all legal documents comply with current laws, regulations, and organizational policies.

Research and Analysis

• Conduct in-depth legal research on matters pertaining to labor law, property law, taxation, and other areas relevant to the organization’s activities.
• Stay informed about changes in laws and regulations, assessing their impact on existing organizational policies and procedures.
• Summarize findings in clear, concise memoranda for the Chief Legal Counsel and other stakeholders.

Litigation and Case Management

• Effectively manage and support all legal proceedings, including criminal, civil, labor, and administrative cases. This includes conducting legal research, drafting pleadings or position papers, preparing case summaries, and representing the organization in legal forums when delegated.
• Must demonstrate sound knowledge and working experience in handling diverse types of legal disputes to protect the organization's interests and uphold its integrity.
• Coordinate with external counsel and other legal consultants as directed by the Chief Legal Counsel.
• Track case progress, maintain case files, and update internal stakeholders on developments.

Legal Compliance and Advisory

• Provide legal assistance to the Chief Legal Counsel, management, and various departments on compliance, contracts, corporate matters, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with the Human Resources team for guidance on labor disputes, administrative hearings, and disciplinary procedures.
• Review and provide input on affidavits, resolutions, and Secretary’s Certificates as needed.
• Provide accurate, well-reasoned, and timely legal advice and opinions to support the operations, programs, and governance. This includes interpreting laws, regulations, internal policies, and Board resolutions to guide decision-making, ensure compliance, and mitigate legal risks.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Assist in drafting board meeting minutes and resolutions and follow up on any resulting actions needed for compliance or policy updates.
• Coordinate with internal teams (e.g., Human Resources, Finance, Operations) to ensure alignment and implementation of legal recommendations.
• Build and maintain good working relationships with government agencies, community partners, donors, and other stakeholders relevant to the organization’s legal interests.

Policy Development and Implementation

• Contribute in policy review, revision, and new policy development in response to legal or regulatory changes to ensure ongoing compliance and alignment with organizational goals.
• Assist in creating best-practice guidelines and standard operating procedures for ongoing compliance and risk mitigation.

Other Related Work

• Prepare regular status reports and updates on key legal matters for the Chief Legal Counsel.
• Perform other related duties as may be assigned by the Chief Legal Counsel and PRC.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS

Qualifications/Minimum Education:

• Juris Doctor (JD) or Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from a recognized institution.
• Must be admitted to the Philippine Bar and in good standing.

Personal Qualities:

• High level of professional integrity and commitment to ethical legal practice.
• Flexibility and willingness to contribute outside standard office hours, if necessary.
• Demonstrated problem-solving capabilities and initiative.
• Proactive and able to manage multiple deadlines
• Ability to work in a high pressure and fast-paced environment
• Collaborates with team members to achieve shared outcomes

Work Experience and Skills:

• At least 2 years of relevant legal experience, preferably involving litigation, corporate, labor, and contract law.
• NGO or public sector background is an advantage
• Experience in drafting, negotiating, and reviewing legal documents is essential.
• Strong legal research and analytical skills with the ability to interpret and apply laws, regulations, and policies effectively.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for drafting legal documents and presenting findings.
• Attention to detail and a proven track record in managing multiple tasks under tight deadlines.
• Ability to work in a high pressure and fast-paced environment with minimal supervision and meet strict deadlines.
• Interpersonal and collaboration skills for coordinating with internal teams and external partners (e.g., government agencies, donors, volunteers).
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and willingness to learn internal systems.

Equipment Used:
Computer, scanner, printer, copier

Working Environment:
Office Based and Field Based

Key Contacts:
PRC NHQ Internal Departments & Employees, PRC Chapters & Employees, PRC Volunteers, Community Groups, International Partners

Core Values:
Focused, Fast, Friendly, Flexible, and Forward Looking

All staff shall agree to abide by the philosophy and principles of the Philippine Red Cross, in particular the 7 fundamental principles: Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity, and Universality.

What’s in it for You?

• Competitive compensation recognizing your hard work.
• HMO coverage starting Day 1 and Accident Insurance Benefit.
• Allowances during the probationary period (Rice & Medical).
• Humanitarian allowance upon regularization.
• Paid time off (15 Sick Leave & 15 Vacation Leave).

Job Location: PRC National Headquarters, Mandaluyong City

Why Join the Philippine Red Cross?

• Contribute to a meaningful mission that saves lives and supports vulnerable communities.
• Collaborate with dedicated professionals, volunteers, and stakeholders who share a commitment to humanitarian service.
• Gain exposure to diverse legal matters and operational challenges within the non-profit and humanitarian sector.

How to apply

How to Apply:

You may click this link to upload your Resume/CV and Portfolio: https://forms.gle/e8juQZiZrfDrt7uo9

Or send your updated CV and portfolio to: hrd.recruitment@redcross.org.ph, hannahlee.abes@redcross.org.ph.

Subject format: Legal Associate_ReliefWeb