Legal Counsel

We are the pulse of Asian football. Our mission is to spearhead the growth of the world's most popular sport across the continent. We are looking for an experienced Legal Counsel with expertise in sports disciplinary matters to join our Legal team.

Role Overview

The primary function of the Legal Counsel is to provide legal expertise in disciplinary matters. This role reports to the Head of Unit, the General Counsel & Director of Legal Affairs and, where appropriate, the chairpersons and members of the AFC's judicial bodies. Where appropriate, the Legal Counsel may also undertake tasks delegated by and under the supervision of Senior Legal Counsels.

Role Responsibilities:

Disciplinary matters

The Legal Counsel shall be responsible for the provision of legal advice and support in connection with the AFC's disciplinary function, including carrying out the following duties:

• Operating the secretariat function in support of the AFC's judicial bodies.
• Initiating and managing case procedures in accordance with the relevant procedural rules.
• Carrying out disciplinary investigations.
• Preparing and distributing charge notices, meeting notices, case summaries and other documents.
• Assisting in the delivery of meetings and decision-making (at a venue, via correspondence, via tele-conference, etc.
• Drafting decisions.
• Communicating decisions to concerned parties (defendants, relevant AFC departments, etc.
• Coordinating disciplinary matters at AFC competitions.

Competition-related and regulatory matters

The Legal Counsel shall be responsible for the provision of legal advice and support in connection with the AFC's competitions and regulations, including carrying out the following duties:

• Liaising with the AFC Competitions & Football Events Division (CFED) regarding match incidents and other competition-related legal matters.
• Keeping records of all disciplinary matters for AFC competitions and keeping CFED updated in this regard.
• Preparing competition-related disciplinary letters and notifications.

The provision of legal advice and support in connection with the preparation, amendment and interpretation of the AFC's regulations, rules and codes..

Requirements / Qualifications: -

• At least four years of relevant disciplinary experience at an international sports organisation.
• Qualified lawyer; post-graduate qualifications in sports law will be considered an asset.
• Good understanding of football and football governance on a global level, and how legal issues affect football organisations.
• Excellent judgement and analytical skills.
• A keen eye for detail.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills - excellent English language skills at a native level are essential.
• The ability to anticipate legal issues and risks.
• A high level of organisation and an ability to multi-task.
• The ability to work under pressure and to strict deadlines.
• A practical and solutions-orientated approach.
• A high level of teamwork and excellent management skills in order to accomplish the responsibilities of the position.

Why Join Us

This is an opportunity to contribute to the legal foundation of football across Asia while working in a dynamic, international environment. You will be involved in meaningful legal work spanning disciplinary, regulatory and competition-related matters, while collaborating with passionate professionals committed to advancing the game throughout the region.

If you are ready to combine your legal expertise with a purpose-driven mission, we would love to hear from you.