Senior Legal Officer (P)
Organizational Context
The International Organization for Migration (IOM), established in 1951, is a UN-related agency focused on promoting humane and orderly migration. It collaborates with governments and partners, providing services and advice. The Department of Legal Affairs supports the organization's operations by ensuring compliance with its legal framework, including the Constitution, regulations, and international law. This role sits within the General and Administrative Law Division.
Job Purpose
This Senior Legal Officer position within the General and Administrative Law Division is crucial for providing comprehensive legal advice, recommendations, and services. The role supports the Director General, Deputy Directors General, Regional Offices, Country Offices, and other departments, ensuring all organizational activities align with IOM's legal framework. Key responsibilities include advising on misconduct cases, managing disciplinary processes, and reviewing contested decisions within internal justice systems. The position also involves drafting legal submissions for internal appeals and the International Labour Organization Administrative Tribunal (ILOAT), contributing to the robust functioning of IOM's administrative justice and misconduct prevention mechanisms. The role is vital for maintaining legal integrity and operational compliance across the organization.
Responsibilities
The Senior Legal Officer will advise on the interpretation and implementation of IOM’s privileges and immunities. This includes supervising the review and drafting of legal submissions, particularly in complex cases within the General and Administrative Law Division's purview. The role involves developing and reviewing internal rules and policies to support administrative justice and misconduct prevention. Significant duties include providing legal counsel to senior officials on complex and sensitive personnel matters, international administrative law, and the administration of justice, including the Staff Regulations and Rules. The officer will review investigation reports, recommend actions, handle disciplinary procedures, and represent the Organization in internal administrative proceedings and before the ILOAT. Maintaining awareness of developments in international civil service law and preparing legal opinions are also key functions.
Work Experience
A minimum of seven years of relevant professional legal experience is required (nine years for Bachelor's degree holders). This includes at least four years of practicing law within an international organization, specifically in international administrative law. Demonstrated experience with administrative investigations and disciplinary matters is also essential.
Skills
Proven research and analytical skills are required. Sound knowledge of the jurisprudence of international administrative tribunals and/or the staff conditions of service under the UN Common System is considered an advantage.