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 to create 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 are to be Inspiring, Supportive, and Unstoppable.

The Role

The Junior Legal Counsel will provide essential legal services across the organization’s operations and initiatives. This position is ideal for an early-career legal professional with an interest in sports, commercial law, and international sports governance, offering a unique opportunity to gain invaluable experience at an international Olympic federation.

Under the guidance of the General Counsel, you will be involved in a diverse range of legal matters within a sports regulatory environment. Responsibilities will include advising on governance issues, contributing to sponsorship, licensing, and media rights agreements, assisting with music licensing, managing intellectual property mark registrations, and supporting dispute resolution. You will play a vital role in ensuring the federation operates in compliance with applicable laws while upholding high standards of legal integrity.

This role combines practical legal work with robust learning and development opportunities in a dynamic and international setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Legal Support: Assist in providing legal advice to internal stakeholders on various matters, including governance, contracts, intellectual property, and compliance.
• Regulatory Matters: Support the General Counsel in overseeing all sports regulatory issues, including advising on rule changes and ensuring their consistency with ongoing provisions. Provide advice to and liaise with the Elections Committee during election periods. Manage all administrative and logistical support for ISU’s statutory processes.
• Governance Support: Assist with governance matters, including preparing documentation for committees and supporting disciplinary or eligibility cases while liaising with all appropriate ISU bodies.
• Contract Review & Drafting: Contribute to the drafting, review, and administration of contracts.
• Intellectual Property Assistance: Help manage and protect the federation’s intellectual property portfolio and support registration processes.
• Risk & Compliance: Assist in the identification of legal risks and help maintain compliance frameworks and internal policies.
• Policy & Research: Conduct legal research and contribute to drafting and updating internal regulations and policies.
• Stakeholder Coordination: Communicate with internal teams and external legal counsel as needed, ensuring efficient collaboration and follow-up.

About You

We are seeking 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 topics.
• 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 sport and looking to build your legal career within an international federation, this role provides a strong foundation for developing your expertise while contributing to the integrity and governance of sport on a global scale.

How to Apply

If you are enthusiastic about sports and wish to utilize your legal expertise to support 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 can thrive.