SENIOR LEGAL OFFICER (Temporary Job Opening)

Organizational Context

The United Nations Office at Geneva (UNOG) seeks a Senior Legal Officer to support the Office of the Director-General. This role provides crucial legal counsel and policy advice to UNOG leadership, various UN entities in Geneva, and contributes to the effective implementation of international agreements and UN regulations.

Job Purpose

The Senior Legal Officer is responsible for identifying and addressing legal issues within UNOG, providing expert advice to the Director-General and senior officials on legal and policy matters. The role involves advising client departments and UN funds/programmes in Geneva, managing the Host Country Agreement, and handling legal aspects of staff status and administration. Additionally, the incumbent will provide legal counsel on contracts, MOUs, property, partnerships, and the protection of the UN name and emblem. The position also entails managing the International Law Seminar and representing the Office on legal matters, ensuring compliance with international law and UN regulations.

Responsibilities

Key duties include leading the identification and resolution of legal issues at UNOG, advising the Director-General and senior officials on legal and policy matters, and providing legal counsel to client departments and UN entities in Geneva. The role involves managing the Host Country Agreement, including waivers of immunity, and advising on staff-related legal matters. The Senior Legal Officer will also provide legal advice on UNOG's tax status, property, real estate valorization, private sector partnerships, and the protection of the UN name and emblem. Reviewing contracts, MOUs, and donation agreements, serving on committees, and advising on legal issues related to the Palais des Nations renovation are also core responsibilities. Furthermore, the incumbent will organize and direct the annual International Law Seminar and represent the Office on legal matters.

Work Experience

A minimum of 10 years of progressive legal practice experience, including analysis, research, and writing, is required. Experience advising UN leadership and diplomats on complex legal issues is essential. Experience with international organization privileges and immunities, and legal advice on procurement activities, particularly within the UN system, is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, strong analytical and research skills, legal writing proficiency, discretion, sound judgment, negotiation skills, ability to work under pressure, knowledge of international relations and the UN system, communication, client orientation, leadership, and decision-making abilities.

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