Senior Legal Officer (Regulatory Affairs)
Organizational Context
The International Seabed Authority (ISA) in Kingston, Jamaica, is an international organization established under UNCLOS and the 1994 Agreement. It organizes and controls activities in international seabed areas, particularly for administering mineral resources. The Office of Legal Affairs (OLA) provides legal advice and support to ISA's organs and Secretariat on matters related to these instruments.
Job Purpose
The Senior Legal Officer (Regulatory Affairs) will provide expert legal analysis and advice on complex regulatory matters concerning activities in the international seabed area. This role involves leading the development of the Mining Code and associated standards, ensuring legal coherence with international law and ISA's mandate. The position supports the Secretary-General and the Director of OLA by conducting research, drafting legal opinions, and advising on the application of the regulatory framework for exploration and exploitation. The role also involves coordinating legal work, managing the legal programme, and representing the Authority in relevant forums, contributing to the effective governance of deep-sea resources.
Responsibilities
Lead and coordinate the development of the Mining Code and related standards, providing expert legal analysis on complex regulatory issues and advising on legal coherence with UNCLOS and ISA agreements. Conduct and supervise extensive legal research and analysis on international law, law of the sea, and international organizations, preparing legal opinions and recommendations. Provide authoritative legal advice to senior officials and intergovernmental bodies on substantive and procedural questions related to the regulatory framework for activities in the Area. Assist in managing the legal work programme, including planning, coordination, and review of assignments. Advise on and supervise the review, negotiation, and drafting of complex contracts and legal instruments. Coordinate with stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of regulatory proposals. Service intergovernmental and technical meetings, providing legal and procedural guidance and preparing documentation. Represent the OLA and the Authority at meetings and conferences, and prepare reports on progress and emerging legal issues.
Work Experience
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible professional legal experience is required. Desirable experience includes providing legal advice within an international organization or government, developing/drafting regulatory instruments, expertise in international law (especially law of the sea), preparing legal advice and presentations, liaising with diverse stakeholders, and leading multidisciplinary teams.
Skills
Professionalism, Planning & Organizing, Accountability, Managing Performance, Leadership, Legal analysis, Regulatory development, International law, Law of the Sea, Contract drafting, Negotiation, Research, Communication, Policy analysis, Programme management.