LEGAL OFFICER (Temporary Job Opening)

Organizational Context

The Appeals Section within the Administrative Law Division, Office of Human Resources, Department of Management Strategy, Policy and Compliance, is responsible for implementing UN standards of conduct. This division provides legal advice on internal justice matters, represents the Secretary-General before the UN Dispute Tribunal, and handles disciplinary matters, aiming to empower managers in addressing conduct and discipline issues.

Job Purpose

The Legal Officer will serve as a lead in handling appeals and complex legal matters across various disciplines, including international, public, private, and administrative law. This role involves providing expert legal advice on intricate issues related to administration, management, procurement, peacekeeping, and criminal investigations. The incumbent will conduct extensive legal research, prepare legal opinions and submissions, and draft legal documents. A key aspect is advising on and participating in the settlement of claims and disputes, and representing the organization in arbitral and administrative proceedings. The position also entails contributing to the development of legal instruments and policies, and potentially mentoring junior officers, all under the supervision of the Chief of the Appeals Section.

Responsibilities

Serve as a lead officer for appeals matters, independently managing complex legal issues in international, public, private, and administrative law. Provide expert legal advice on diverse and complex substantive and procedural questions, including those related to administration, management, procurement, peacekeeping, criminal investigations, and funds. Conduct extensive legal research and analysis, preparing legal opinions, studies, briefs, reports, and correspondence. Draft legal submissions and motions for investigations and prosecutions. Service diplomatic conferences and committees, preparing background materials and reports. Review, advise on, and draft complex legal documents, developing new legal modalities. Advise on and participate in negotiations for settling claims and disputes. Provide legal advice on staff regulations and rules, review administrative decisions, and prepare draft amendments. Represent the organization in complex cases before tribunals and administrative proceedings. Serve on various boards and committees, and promote the UN's work. Coordinate and direct teams of legal officers, and mentor junior staff. Contribute to the review and design of legal instruments, policies, and guidelines.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressive professional legal experience, including handling complex legal matters and providing legal advice, is required. This must include at least two years of international litigation experience, with courtroom or tribunal experience. Experience in administrative law, employment/labour law, preferably in an international setting, and with HR policies and organizational operations is also required.

Skills

Professionalism, strong analytical and legal research skills, proficiency in legal writing, ability to handle complex legal issues, strong negotiating skills, ability to work under deadlines, knowledge of international relations and the UN system, effective communication (written and verbal), planning and organizing abilities.

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