SENIOR LEGAL OFFICER (TJO)

Organizational Context

This position is within the Office of the Assistant Secretary-General of the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM) in Geneva. The IIIM assists in the investigation and prosecution of persons responsible for the most serious crimes under international law committed in the Syrian Arab Republic. The incumbent reports directly to the Head of the IIIM.

Job Purpose

The Senior Legal Officer provides authoritative legal advice to the Head of the IIIM on strategic, managerial, and substantive aspects of accountability for core international crimes. This role involves independently handling complex and sensitive legal matters across international, criminal, and administrative law. The incumbent will advise on and supervise the drafting and negotiation of critical legal instruments, such as contracts and Memoranda of Understanding, related to information sharing, evidence, witness protection, and the Mechanism's operations. Additionally, the role involves developing new legal modalities to address unique operational needs and providing strategic and diplomatic advice to support the successful delivery of the IIIM's mandate.

Responsibilities

Provide authoritative legal advice to the Head of the Mechanism on strategic, managerial, and substantive aspects of accountability for core international crimes. Independently manage a wide range of complex, sensitive, and potentially conflicting legal matters involving international, criminal, and administrative law. Advise on and supervise the review, negotiation, and drafting of major contracts, Memoranda of Understanding, and other legal instruments concerning information and evidence sharing, witness protection, and operational matters. Develop novel legal modalities to meet specific needs. Supervise staff within the witness support and protection unit. Oversee programmatic and administrative tasks essential for the Mechanism's functioning. Contribute to and supervise the preparation of the Mechanism's bi-annual reports to the General Assembly. Offer strategic and diplomatic counsel to the Head of the Mechanism to ensure effective mandate delivery.

Work Experience

A minimum of 10 years of progressive professional legal experience is required, with at least seven years specifically in international criminal law. Five years of experience in handling large, complex international core criminal cases within a multi-disciplinary team at the international level is also required. Experience in developing and implementing investigatory or prosecutorial policy for international core crimes is necessary. Experience in managing witness support and protection is desirable.

Skills

Expertise in international legal procedures and instruments, including substantive and procedural criminal law and international criminal justice systems. Ability to analyze complex legal issues and develop innovative solutions. Proficiency in legal writing and drafting legal instruments. Strong negotiation and influencing skills. Ability to manage multiple projects under tight deadlines. Good knowledge of the UN system. Proven diplomatic skills. Professionalism, planning and organizing, teamwork, performance management, and judgment/decision-making.

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