Paralegal

at  World Resources Institute

This is a hybrid position which requires 8 days/month in the office. You will be based in our office in Washington, DC. Existing work authorization is required at the time of application submission as WRI is unable to sponsor any visa work sponsorship for this position.

JOB HIGHLIGHT:

In this newly created position, reporting to the General Counsel, you will contribute to WRI’s mission by enhancing compliance within the organization, developing robust management systems for the legal department, and collaborating with colleagues across the WRI network. You will be responsible for a variety of legal matters including tracking and managing the status of the General Counsel’s assignments, conducting reviews of contracts and similar documents, and related administrative support.
If you are looking for a rewarding career with a mission-based NGO, please consider this position.

ABOUT US:

Founded in 1982, World Resources Institute (WRI) is an independent, nonprofit global research organization that turns big ideas into action at the nexus of environment, economic opportunity, and human well-being. We are working to address seven critical challenges that the world must overcome this decade to secure a sustainable future for people and the planet: climate change, energy, food, forests, water, sustainable cities, and the ocean. WRI has a global staff of over 1,800 people with work spanning 60 countries. We have offices in Africa, Brazil, China, Europe, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Colombia and the United States, as well as a growing presence in other countries and regions.
The foundation of our work is delivering high-quality research, data, maps, and analysis to solve the world’s greatest environment and international development challenges and improve people’s lives. We work with leaders in government, business, and civil society to drive ambitious action and create change on the ground. Equally important, we bring together partners to develop breakthrough ideas and scale-up solutions for far-reaching, enduring impact.

Corporate Compliance & Governance Oversight (50%):

• Manage organization’s insurance portfolio; prepare insurance renewals and liaise with insurance brokers
• Maintain and update corporate records, governmental filings, and other documentation, and facilitate and manage legal document repository
• Assist with governance and compliance issues regarding local and international affiliates and branch offices
• Develop ethics and compliance policies and procedures related to nonprofit tax issues, , sanctions, lobbying reporting, general data protection regulations; other matters; and prepare and deliver related trainings
• Research and prepare the completion of periodic government reports, filings and registrations
• Develop comprehensive knowledge of the organization’s hotline ethics reporting system to effectively address and respond to inquiries from others

Drafting & Researching (25%):

• Proofread and edit legal documents and filings to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance with law
• Secure the authentication and apostille of documentation, as necessary
• Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda summarizing findings
• Review, edit and revise contracts, policies and other documents prepared by others
• Research and identify local and international counsel who can provide advice on legal matters. Solicit cost and service proposals from such firms and advise on the selection of the local firm. Assist with recruitment and management of pro bono counsel

Project Management (25%):

• Support the implementation of initiatives aimed at strengthening the organization’s legal global network
• Identify and implement project management tools (evaluate new solutions and adapt existing solutions) to streamline new or existing practices, as well as manage design, rollout, and training for new systems
• Develop and enforce processes and policies to manage outside counsel usage and spend and to optimize workflows within the Legal Department
• Maintain organized legal files and databases within the SharePoint folder system and ensure accessibility for relevant team members
• Develop and deliver engaging and informative training sessions in person or via virtual platforms, ensuring content is accurate and tailored to the needs of staff
• Respond to various inquiries from different organizational functions including grants and contracts, accounting, and human resource matters
• Additional duties as assigned by the General Counsel