591 EN - EDC - Legal Counsel

Export Development Canada | Exportation et développement Canada; Ottawa; Hybrid; CAD 85,000 - 129,000; Full time

Job summary

Export Development Canada (EDC) is seeking a Legal Counsel for a 13-month contract to join its Legal Services team in Ottawa or Toronto. The role provides business-focused legal advice across technology, procurement, HR and litigation, in a hybrid work environment with three days on-site per week.

The successful candidate will work with a team of ~30 lawyers and handle a range of transactions, regulatory matters and risk assessments while supporting EDC’s global trade finance objectives.

Qualifications

• Must be licensed by a Canadian provincial bar in good standing.
• Minimum of 3 years (Legal Services 17) or 5 years (Legal Services 18) of relevant legal experience.
• Strong communication and drafting skills.
• Ability to multitask in a commercial environment.
• Bilingual in English and French is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Advise on technology matters, including technology transactions, digital initiatives, software and cloud services.
• Advise on procurement and commercial contracting matters.
• Provide advice on human resources and employment matters.
• Manage and advise on litigation, disputes, claims and investigations.
• Draft, review and negotiate legal documents and provide practical advice on compliance.

Skills

Strong communication

Drafting skills

Negotiation

Multitasking

Legal expertise

Education

Undergraduate degree in Law

Job description

Join the EDC Team!

At EDC, we support Canadian businesses to succeed globally. We provide the financial tools and expertise they need to explore new markets, reduce risks, all towards the goal of making Canada and the world better through trade.

Application deadline

October 30, 2026

Position

Legal Counsel

Employment Type

Contract (13 months)

Compensation Details

• Legal Services 17: Salaries typically range from $84,698 to $112,931 annually, based on qualifications and experiences, plus a performance-based incentive
• Legal Services 18: Salaries typically range from $96,557 to $128,743 annually, based on qualifications and experiences, plus a performance-based incentive

Location

• Export Development Canada operates in a hybrid work environment, with a current requirement of three days per week (subject to change).
• This role can be performed from EDC's headquarters in Ottawa or from one of our Community Hubs located in Toronto, Mississauga, Montreal, Brossard or Laval

About EDC

At Export Development Canada (EDC), we empower Canadian businesses to succeed globally. As a financial Crown corporation, we offer innovative financial solutions and expert insights to help businesses explore new markets, mitigate risks, and achieve growth.

Why Join EDC?

• Comprehensive Benefits: EDC offers a competitive compensation & benefits package, work-life balance, & the opportunity to help make Canada and the world better through trade
• Work-Life Balance: EDC offers a competitive compensation package & work-life balance. We have hybrid work options, 3 to 4 weeks paid vacation, a corporate closure period, summer early Friday's & no meeting Fridays
• Professional Development: Take advantage of our continuous learning opportunities, including training programs, workshops and language training
• Inclusive Culture: Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that champions employment equity & values diversity of ideas, strengths, & backgrounds to succeed
• Wellness Programs: Access to wellness initiatives, mental health support, and fitness programs to keep you healthy and happy
• Community Engagement: Participate in volunteer opportunities and give back to the community through our various social responsibility programs

Team Overview

EDC is seeking a team and solution-oriented corporate, commercial lawyer to join its Legal Services team of approximately 30 lawyers who provide a wide range of legal services to the Corporation.

EDC's Legal Services is a dynamic, client-oriented environment supporting EDC's full range of activities and services. Legal Services provides legal representation and advice across EDC's product offerings and corporate functions.

The successful candidates will provide business-focused legal advice across a combination of technology, procurement, human resources and employment, and litigation matters. Responsibilities will be tailored to reflect business needs and each candidate's experience, strengths and areas of interest. The lawyers will work closely with business leaders and experienced legal colleagues on complex, evolving and high impact corporate and commercial matters.

What you will be doing

• Advise on technology matters, including technology transactions, digital initiatives, software and cloud services, cybersecurity, data-related issues, and emerging technologies
• Advise on procurement and commercial contracting matters, including the development, negotiation, interpretation and administration of agreements for goods and services
• Provide advice on human resources and employment matters, including workplace policies, employee relations, accommodations, investigations and employment-related agreements
• Manage and advise on litigation, disputes, claims, investigations and other contentious matters, including developing strategy and assessing legal and business risk
• Draft, review and negotiate legal documents, and provide clear, practical advice on EDC's rights and obligations, internal policies, authorization and compliance requirements, and relevant legislation
• Identify legal and business issues, recommend proportionate risk-mitigation measures, and support timely, commercially informed decision-making
• Retain, instruct and supervise external counsel, and review and assess external legal advice and work product
• Build effective relationships and proactively support business teams through collaboration, sound judgment and practical problem-solving

What we are looking for

• Undergraduate degree in Law
• Applicants must be licensed by a Canadian provincial bar and in good standing to practice law as a barrister and solicitor in any Canadian province or territory
• A minimum of 3 years (Legal Services 17) or 5 years (Legal Services 18) of relevant legal experience in having regard to the position described above
• Strong communication skills (written and verbal), including strong drafting skills
• Demonstrated ability to multitask and manage a high volume of tasks and transactions effectively and efficiently
• Proactive lawyering and risk mitigation skills acquired in a commercially oriented, dynamic environment
• Strong judgment and decision-making qualities, and collaborative in soliciting the input of others, both within the Legal Services team and with other EDC teams
• Strong influencing and negotiation skills to deal with conflicting and complex areas

What will make you stand out

• Bilingual in both official languages (English and French)
• Knowledge of financing, guarantee or insurance law

Eligibility

EDC is committed to Fair Employment Practices and preference will be given to a candidate who is able to work legally in Canada at the time of application (Canadian Citizens or Permanent Residents). Candidates must meet the requisite government security screening requirements. The position is open to those who meet all of the essential requirements stated above and whose applications are received by the closing date.

This position is open to individuals who meet all the essential criteria outlined above and submit their applications by the closing date. Ready to make a difference? This is your chance to join a dynamic, growing team and leave your mark on our organization, development finance, and the world.

EDC's Commitment to Employment Equity

Export Development Canada (EDC) is dedicated to fostering employment equity and building a diverse workforce. We are committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment that respects people from all cultures, backgrounds, and abilities. At EDC, we nurture a culture of inclusion and belonging where everyone has equal opportunity to grow, develop, succeed, and be their truest selves.

We actively encourage applications from women, Indigenous peoples, visible minorities, persons with disabilities, and members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community.

Your application must clearly demonstrate how you meet all the requirements. We thank all applicants' interest in a career at EDC; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please note that qualified candidates may be considered for similar roles at this level within EDC.

EDC recognizes that disclosing the need for accommodations can be a personal matter. Please know that as an organization, we are committed to maintaining confidentiality and ensuring that any accommodations provided are tailored to support your needs. Our aim is to ensure you have a comfortable and positive experience throughout the recruitment process, so please do not hesitate to contact us directly for any accommodation requests at [e-mail]. We are here to support you every step of the way.

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