Legal Officer
Organizational Context
The International Organization for Migration (IOM), a UN-related organization since 1951, facilitates humane and orderly migration. The Office of Legal Affairs provides essential legal counsel to IOM leadership and offices, ensuring operations align with the organization's legal framework, including its constitution, regulations, and international law. This role operates under the Legal Counsel and the Contract Law Division Head.
Job Purpose
The Legal Officer's primary purpose is to provide timely and accurate legal advice, specifically focusing on contract law matters relevant to IOM's operations, particularly those involving US and Canadian funding. This role supports the efficient functioning of the Office of Legal Affairs by ensuring contractual agreements protect IOM's legal interests. The position contributes to the organization's ability to manage its relationships with third parties and navigate legal complexities in its global migration initiatives. The officer will also play a role in developing contract templates and assisting with dispute resolution, thereby strengthening IOM's legal standing and operational integrity.
Responsibilities
The Legal Officer will provide expert legal advice on contracts related to US and Canadian funding and operations, ensuring compliance with IOM's legal framework and regulations. This includes acting as a focal point for contract-related matters concerning these regions, guiding personnel, and following up as needed. The role involves assisting in the development of new contract templates to safeguard IOM's legal interests and providing advice during contract negotiations and dispute resolutions. Additionally, the officer will conduct training for IOM personnel on contract law issues, promote the use of online legal resources, and support knowledge management within the Contract Law Division to enhance efficiency. Drafting and negotiating legal terms for third-party arrangements is also a key duty.
Work Experience
Required experience includes recent legal practice in commercial/contract law and/or dispute resolution. This experience can be from a private law firm, as in-house counsel in the private sector, or within the United Nations system or another intergovernmental organization.
Skills
Excellent writing skills; proven legal research and contract review capabilities; knowledge of public international law, particularly the law of international organizations.