Senior Legal Officer
Organizational Context
The Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED), specifically the Assessment and Technical Assistance Office (ATAO), evaluates Member States' enforcement of UN security rules against terrorism. It identifies legal and operational gaps and facilitates capacity-building assistance. This Senior Legal Officer role is within the Specialized Technical Expertise and Research Branch of ATAO/CTED, reporting to the Chief of Branch.
Job Purpose
The Senior Legal Officer provides authoritative legal advice on complex counter-terrorism and financing issues, analyzing the implementation of UN Security Council resolutions. The role involves preparing reports, proposing technical solutions for compliance, and coordinating legal work on countering the financing of terrorism (CFT). The officer will guide junior staff, develop recommendations for senior officials, and update technical guides for Member States. This position also involves engaging with international organizations to enhance Member States' capacity, conducting assessment visits, preparing briefings, developing analytical products on CFT trends, and representing CTED in relevant forums. The role coordinates CFT matters within the branch and liaises with key UN and international entities like FATF.
Responsibilities
Provide expert legal advice on complex counter-terrorism and financing matters, including linkages with organized crime. Analyze and report on the implementation of relevant UN Security Council resolutions. Prepare and review reports, proposing technical solutions for Member States' compliance issues. Coordinate and supervise legal and CFT work, guiding junior officers. Develop recommendations for senior management. Update technical guides for states on counter-terrorism and financing resolutions. Engage with international, regional, and sub-regional organizations to facilitate capacity-building assistance. Conduct assessment visits to Member States to monitor compliance and identify technical assistance needs. Prepare briefings and analytical products on CFT trends and challenges. Represent CTED in international events and liaise with diverse stakeholders. Coordinate CFT matters within the branch and engage with entities like FATF.
Work Experience
A minimum of ten years of progressive experience in international law, criminal justice, law enforcement, or international legal cooperation is required. Experience supervising legal teams, working on counter-terrorism and financing (CFT), and familiarity with FATF Recommendations are essential. Experience in multi-stakeholder coordination and engagement in an international setting is desirable.
Skills
Expertise in international law, counter-terrorism, and financing (CFT). Strong legal analysis and report writing skills. Ability to coordinate and supervise teams. Experience with UN policies and international standards. Excellent communication, teamwork, and leadership capabilities. Ability to engage with diverse international stakeholders.