Junior Legal Counsel / Junior Legal Counseless

About Us

Founded in 1892, the International Skating Union (ISU) is the oldest international winter sports Federation and the second oldest International Sports Federation. The ISU is recognized by the International Olympic Committee, governing the sports of Figure Skating and Speed Skating.

Today, the ISU’s vision is a world where everyone can experience and enjoy the thrill of skating. Our mission is to sustainably grow and improve our sport by prioritizing our skaters, engaging our fans, nurturing partnerships, and inspiring communities.

Our core values embody being Inspiring, Supportive, and Unstoppable.

The Role

The Junior Legal Counsel will play a crucial role in supporting the provision of legal services throughout the organization’s operations and initiatives. This position is ideal for an early-career legal professional with a keen interest in sports, commercial law, and international sports governance, providing a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience within an international Olympic federation.

Under the guidance of the General Counsel, you will engage with a variety of legal matters within a sports regulatory landscape, including advising on governance issues, contributing to sponsorship, licensing, and media rights agreements, assisting with music licensing, managing intellectual property mark registrations, and facilitating dispute resolution. Your efforts will help ensure that the federation operates within applicable legal frameworks and maintains the highest standards of legal integrity.

This role beautifully combines hands-on legal work with learning and development opportunities within a dynamic international environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Legal Support: Assist in providing legal advice to internal stakeholders on a range of matters including governance, contracts, intellectual property, and compliance.
• Regulatory Matters: Aid the General Counsel in managing all sports regulatory issues, ensuring rule changes align with existing provisions and providing administrative support during election periods.
• Governance Support: Assist with governance documentation and support disciplinary or eligibility cases while liaising with relevant ISU bodies.
• Contract Review & Drafting: Support the drafting, review, and administration of contracts.
• Intellectual Property Assistance: Help manage and protect the federation’s intellectual property portfolio, including supporting registration processes.
• Risk & Compliance: Assist in identifying legal risks and maintaining compliance frameworks and internal policies.
• Policy & Research: Conduct legal research and contribute to the drafting and updating of internal regulations and policies.
• Stakeholder Coordination: Liaise with internal teams and external legal counsel as required, ensuring efficient communication and follow-up.

About You

We seek a motivated and detail-oriented legal professional eager to advance their career in an international sports environment.

Essential Requirements:

• Law degree and eligibility to practice law.
• 1–3 years of relevant legal experience (including internships or traineeships).
• Basic experience in contract drafting and legal research.
• Strong analytical and organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Fluency in English.

Desirable:

• Qualified to practice law in Switzerland, with admission to the Swiss bar.
• Interest or academic background in sports and international law.
• Exposure to sports organizations, events, or governance structures.
• Familiarity with commercial or compliance matters.

What We Offer

• A unique entry-level opportunity in international sports law and governance.
• Hands-on experience across a broad range of legal disciplines.
• A collaborative and multicultural working environment.
• Opportunities for professional development and mentorship.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.

Why Join Us

If you are passionate about sports and aspire to build your legal career within an international federation, this role provides a solid foundation to enhance your expertise while contributing to the integrity and governance of sports worldwide.

How to Apply

If you are excited about leveraging your legal expertise in support of an international federation, we would love to hear from you.

Apply online using the form below.

Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered. Former athletes and skaters are strongly encouraged to apply, as their unique experiences are highly valued. At ISU, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive environment where everyone is empowered to succeed.