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. Recognized by the International Olympic Committee, the ISU governs the sports of Figure Skating and Speed Skating.

Today, our 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 DNA is to be Inspiring, Supportive, and Unstoppable.

The Role

The Junior Legal Counsel supports the provision of legal services across the organization’s operations and initiatives. This role 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 experience at an international Olympic federation.

Working under the guidance of the General Counsel, you will contribute to various legal matters within a sports regulatory environment. This includes advising on governance matters, contributing to sponsorship, licensing, and media rights deals, assisting with music licensing, intellectual property mark registrations, and dispute resolution. You will help ensure that the federation operates in compliance with applicable laws while maintaining high standards of legal integrity.

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

Key Responsibilities

• Legal Support: Assist in providing legal advice to internal stakeholders on governance, contracts, intellectual property, and compliance.
• Regulatory Matters: Assist the General Counsel in overseeing all sports regulatory matters, including advising on rule changes and ensuring consistency with ongoing provisions. Provide advice to and liaise with the Elections Committee during election periods, along with administrative support for ISU's statutory processes.
• Governance Support: Assist with governance matters, including documentation preparation for committees and support during disciplinary or eligibility cases. Liaise with all appropriate 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, 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 updating internal regulations and policies.
• Stakeholder Coordination: Liaise with internal teams and external legal counsel as necessary, ensuring efficient communication and follow-up.

About You

We are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented legal professional eager to develop 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 in an international federation, this role offers a strong foundation to develop your expertise while contributing to the integrity and governance of sport worldwide.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about sports and want to use 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 creating a diverse, inclusive, and supportive environment where everyone is valued and empowered to succeed.