About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is one of the world's leading food and beverage companies, with an iconic portfolio that includes beloved brands like Pepsi, Lay's, Gatorade, and Quaker. Operating in over 200 countries, PepsiCo employs hundreds of thousands of passionate professionals dedicated to delivering innovative products that bring joy to consumers. In Kyrgyzstan, PepsiCo continues its legacy of excellence by expanding its footprint in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, focusing on sustainable growth, local partnerships, and adherence to the highest standards of corporate governance.

With annual revenues exceeding $90 billion globally, PepsiCo invests heavily in its people, fostering a culture of innovation, inclusivity, and performance. Joining PepsiCo means becoming part of a dynamic team that shapes the future of the industry while enjoying unparalleled resources for professional success.

Role Overview

The Senior Legal Counsel position in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, is a pivotal role within PepsiCo's regional operations. Reporting to senior leadership, you will deliver comprehensive legal support across all facets of the company's activities in Kyrgyzstan. This full-time position demands a strategic thinker with deep expertise in Kyrgyz legislation, capable of navigating complex regulatory landscapes while driving business objectives.

Ideal for seasoned lawyers from international, FMCG, or manufacturing backgrounds, this role offers the chance to influence high-stakes projects, from construction initiatives to antitrust compliance, in a fast-paced environment backed by PepsiCo's global expertise.

Key Responsibilities

As Senior Legal Counsel, your core duties will include:

• Providing full-spectrum legal support for PepsiCo's operations in Kyrgyzstan, ensuring seamless compliance with national laws and PepsiCo's internal business standards.
• Offering expert consultations on diverse legal areas, including corporate law (joint-stock companies), labor law, tax regulations, customs, architecture and construction, technical regulations, advertising, competition, and personal data protection.
• Developing internal legal documents, standard contract templates, and streamlining legal processes to enhance operational efficiency.
• Conducting training sessions for managers and employees on critical topics like anti-corruption, antitrust regulations, and legal best practices.
• Managing construction projects legally, handling pre-trial claims, litigation, and interactions with state authorities.
• Monitoring legislative changes, judicial practices, and enforcement trends, while proactively informing stakeholders and implementing adaptation programs.
• Overseeing corporate governance tasks and assisting during regulatory audits and inspections.

Qualifications & Requirements

To excel in this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Higher legal education from a recognized institution.
• At least 6 years of experience in a similar senior legal position, ideally in international companies, FMCG, or manufacturing sectors.
• In-depth knowledge of Kyrgyz Republic's normative acts in corporate (joint-stock), labor, tax law, construction, technical regulation, advertising, competition, and personal data protection.
• Proven experience in judicial and pre-trial dispute resolution, with a track record of successful case outcomes.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, high emotional intelligence, and strong relationship-building abilities for internal and external stakeholders.
• Analytical mindset, systemic decision-making, responsibility, ability to handle large data volumes, multitask under pressure, and thrive in high-workload scenarios.
• Language proficiency: Fluent Russian, English at Upper-Intermediate level or higher, Kyrgyz language knowledge is advantageous.

By applying, you consent to the processing and cross-border transfer of your personal data within PepsiCo group companies, including to Russia.

Benefits & Perks

PepsiCo offers a rewarding compensation package tailored to attract top legal talent in Kyrgyzstan:

• Competitive annual salary estimated at $25,000 - $35,000 USD, based on Food & Beverage sector benchmarks with a buffer for performance.
• Comprehensive health insurance and wellness programs.
• Paid time off, parental leave, and flexible working arrangements where applicable.
• Access to global training platforms, legal certifications, and leadership development programs.
• Employee discounts on PepsiCo products and partnerships with local perks in Bishkek.
• Opportunities for international mobility within PepsiCo's vast network.

Career Growth

At PepsiCo, career progression is a reality for high performers. This Senior Legal Counsel role serves as a launchpad for regional or global leadership positions in legal affairs. Past professionals have advanced to Head of Legal for Central Asia or corporate counsel roles at PepsiCo headquarters. We invest in your growth through mentorship, skill-building workshops, and exposure to cross-functional projects, ensuring you evolve alongside our expanding operations in emerging markets.

Professional Development Opportunities

Participate in PepsiCo's Legal Academy, external conferences, and certifications in international compliance standards like GDPR equivalents and antitrust law.

Why Join Us

Choose PepsiCo in Bishkek for the perfect blend of local impact and global reach. Work on transformative projects in Kyrgyzstan's growing economy while leveraging PepsiCo's resources to tackle real-world challenges. Our commitment to sustainability, diversity, and innovation creates a premium workplace where your expertise drives tangible results. Be part of a company that refreshes the world – and your career.

Role FAQs

What is the work schedule?

This is a full-time role with standard business hours, potential for flexibility and high workload periods during projects or audits.

Is relocation support provided?

Local candidates preferred; inquiries about relocation can be discussed during interviews for qualified international applicants.

What languages are essential?

Russian fluency and English Upper-Intermediate are required; Kyrgyz is a plus for stakeholder interactions.

How does PepsiCo support work-life balance?

Through wellness programs, time off policies, and a culture emphasizing emotional intelligence and sustainable performance.

Application Process?

Submit your resume via our careers portal; selected candidates proceed to interviews with HR and legal leadership.