Legal Counsel - Trade Sanctions 80-100%

As a Legal Counsel – Trade Sanctions, you will step into a newly created role in Group Legal as a key legal advisor to the business on sanctions-related matters. As part of a collaborative, international team of lawyers, you will contribute your legal expertise to protect and enable the Group's business worldwide, shaping how Zurich navigates one of the most dynamic and geopolitically sensitive areas of international regulation. You will support Group Legal in safeguarding our global operations against sanctions-related risks, by providing practical, cross-border legal advice, monitor rapidly evolving international sanctions regimes (EU, UK, US, CH), and supporting the design and deployment of risk-mitigation strategies. 
 

What you will do 

Your main responsibilities will be to: 

• Provide legal advice and conduct legal research to deliver practical, goal-oriented solutions to relevant stakeholders on complex, multi-jurisdictional sanctions-related matters. 
• Support investigations of potential sanctions breaches, coordinating with external counsel and regulators where necessary. 
• Proactively identify key trends and developments in the sanctions space (UN, EU, US, UK, Switzerland) and support translating them into practical advice for the business. 
• Partner with Compliance and other functions, advising and contributing the legal perspective to shape internal guidelines, policies and the Group's approach to sanctions. 
• Manage sanctions documentation, tracking and follow-up, including maintaining sanctions clauses and shared knowledge resources.
• Support the Sanctions Lawyers Network, especially in preparing updates and managing information flows among participants.
• Support any other topics on an ad hoc basis within the remit of the Corporate Center Legal team. 
   

What you bring

•  Master's degree in Law or equivalent professional legal qualification in an EU/UK/US jurisdiction. Bar admission is a plus. 
• At least 2-4+ years of relevant professional experience at an international law firm or in-house legal department, with experience involving trade sanctions, AML or international business law. 
• Strong familiarity with and understanding of the sanctions regimes most relevant to our business, particularly EU, UK, US, Swiss frameworks. 
• Clear, concise and accurate drafting skills, with the ability to translate complex legal concepts into practical, user-friendly guidance for different audiences. . 
• Proactive autonomous and pragmatic mindset, with strong ownership and the ability to develop risk-based, business-oriented solutions. . 
• High integrity and sound judgement, with the ability to remain composed and professional when managing sensitive or time-critical matters.  
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships across functions and at all levels. 
• Excellent analytical, verbal and written communication skills, combined with strong legal instincts and outstanding issue-spotting ability. 
• Ability to handle multiple competing tasks and priorities, staying resourceful and composed under pressure, with excellent organizational and project management skills. 
• Excellent command of English is essential; additional languages are a plus. 
• Familiarity with legal and risk management software. 
   

You belong here. 

Imagine working in one of the world’s most sustainable workplaces. At Quai Zurich Campus, you’ll enjoy an environment designed to help you thrive, with benefits that support your well-being and impact, and opportunities to perform at your best, surrounded by top talent and supportive colleagues.  
You’ll have access to healthy food options, fitness facilities, and bright, collaborative spaces that spark creativity. Located in the heart of Zurich on the shores of Lake Zurich, the campus offers excellent public transportation links, making your commute simple. 
Grow with us through access to learning resources, on-the-job development, and continuous empowerment and support. Be part of a team that is creating a brighter future together. 
 

About Us 

Zurich is a leading multi-line insurer, serving over 82 million customers in more than 200 countries and territories with more than 65,000 employees.
For over 150 years, Zurich has been transforming insurance – offering not just protection, but also prevention services that promote well-being and climate resilience.
Guided by our purpose to ‘create a brighter future together,’ we aim to be one of the most responsible and impactful businesses in the world. 

We look forward to receiving your online application today!

Information for recruitment agencies

Zurich does not accept any applications from recruitment agencies for this position. We refuse any responsibility for unsolicited applications, as well as any associated fees. 

Why Zurich

At Zurich, we like to think outside the box and challenge the status quo. We take an optimistic approach by focusing on the positives and constantly asking What can go right? 

We are an equal opportunity employer who knows that each employee is unique - that’s what makes our team so great! 
Join us as we constantly explore new ways to protect our customers and the planet.
 

• Location(s):  CH - Zürich 
• Remote working: Hybrid
• Schedule: Full Time
• Recruiter name: Grace Cunningham