Young Professional Officer (Legal)
Organizational Context
The Legal Office (LEG) at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy, provides authoritative legal advice and assistance on a wide range of issues. It serves the Director-General, Headquarters and field units, Governing and Statutory Bodies, and Members. The General Legal Affairs Service (LEGA) within LEG advises on constitutional questions, interpretation of Basic Texts, international treaties, internal rules, and policies. It also handles legal aspects of relations with governments and other entities, personnel matters, and represents FAO in judicial proceedings and dispute settlements.
Job Purpose
This role focuses on providing legal research, technical analysis, and project support within the Legal Office. The incumbent will analyze legal aspects of technical, social, economic, environmental, and technological information for various documents. Key responsibilities include maintaining records, updating databases and web pages, and offering technical support to projects. The position also involves collaborating on training materials, organizing workshops, and assisting in the preparation and follow-up of meetings and consultations. The role is crucial for supporting the delivery of assigned projects and services, ensuring legal compliance and contributing to FAO's mandate.
Responsibilities
Assists in preparing legal advice on FAO's operations, status, privileges, immunities, host country agreements, and operational arrangements. Provides legal counsel on complex contractual arrangements, voluntary contributions, and collaboration modalities with partners, including the private sector, and develops innovative approaches to support FAO's mandate. Offers advice on legal aspects of human resources, including internal justice system appeals, disciplinary processes, and policy review. Supports the preparation of legal advice for FAO Governing and Statutory Bodies, prepares documentation, and consults with UN agencies and other entities. Delivers legal support for activities and services aligned with FAO's Strategic Objectives, Regional Initiatives, and Delivery Mechanisms, ensuring compliance with the Organization’s Policy on Gender Equality.
Work Experience
A minimum of one year of relevant professional experience is required. This experience should encompass public international law, law of international organizations, international administrative law, and contract law. Experience in more than one work location or area, particularly in field positions, is desirable. Admission to practice law in a national jurisdiction is considered an advantage.
Skills
Essential skills include the ability to conduct legal research and analysis, and extensive experience in drafting, reviewing, and advising on legal texts and issues. Knowledge of the UN system and the functioning of an intergovernmental organization's legal office is important. Working knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is advantageous. Experience providing legal advice in an international setting is highly valued. Candidates should be 32 years of age or younger.