National Legal Officer
Organizational Context
Established in 1951, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading intergovernmental organization dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration. The Legal Unit provides essential legal advice and support to the Mission on diverse matters, ensuring activities align with IOM policies, regulations, and applicable legal frameworks. This role operates under the direct supervision of the Chief of Mission.
Job Purpose
The National Legal Officer is responsible for providing comprehensive legal coordination and support services to the Mission. This involves ensuring that all requests for legal review are meticulously documented, efficiently processed, and appropriately referred to the Office of Legal Affairs (LEG) when necessary. The role is crucial in maintaining the Mission's adherence to IOM policies, regulations, and legal frameworks, thereby supporting the organization's mandate to promote humane and orderly migration. The position contributes to the overall legal integrity and operational compliance of the Mission's activities.
Responsibilities
Support the coordination and administrative processing of contribution agreements and related documentation, ensuring completeness and compliance with IOM procedures and facilitating review by LEG and the Regional Office. Provide day-to-day guidance and task allocation to the Legal Unit Assistant. Coordinate the submission, tracking, and follow-up of legal templates and agreements requiring review and clearance by LEG. Review supporting documentation for procurement and implementing partner processes for completeness and compliance, referring matters requiring legal determination to LEG. Prepare and coordinate legal correspondence, diplomatic communications, and Note Verbales, ensuring consistency with LEG guidance. Coordinate the review and processing of individual contractor documentation, ensuring approved templates are used and facilitating clearance and signature processes. Compile, organize, and present relevant background information for legal matters referred to LEG. Support the coordination and administrative processing of legal matters related to partnerships, construction projects, and records management, ensuring timely referral to LEG. Perform other assigned duties.
Work Experience
Experience is required in supporting legal and contractual processes, including the review and administration of agreements and legal documentation, ensuring compliance with organizational procedures. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications is necessary. Experience with international humanitarian organizations or governmental institutions in a multicultural setting is advantageous.
Skills
Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills. Ability to collaborate effectively in a team-oriented environment. In-depth knowledge of migration-related subject areas. Knowledge of UN and bilateral donor programming frameworks. Ability to review legal documentation, identify escalation issues, and ensure procedural compliance. Good drafting and communication skills.