Conseiller/Conseillère juridique et Directeur/Directrice

Organizational Context

The UNESCO Office of International Standards and Legal Affairs (LA) reports directly to the Director-General. Its mission is to protect the Organization's interests by focusing on two main areas: ensuring compliance with the Organization's rules, regulations, and procedures, and continuously improving the legal security of the Organization's activities. This office plays a crucial role in upholding the integrity and operational effectiveness of UNESCO's global endeavors.

Job Purpose

The Legal Counsel and Director of the Office of International Standards and Legal Affairs (LA) provides high-level advisory and managerial services. This role demands in-depth analysis of complex legal issues and the formulation of authoritative, reliable, and sound legal opinions on a wide range of national and international law matters. The position involves significant managerial responsibilities, including leading and supervising staff across various organizational units. These units are responsible for analyzing administrative, substantive, and procedural issues critical to the Organization's operations. The role also contributes to the overall policy and objectives of UNESCO, ensuring legal frameworks support the Organization's mission and strategic goals.

Responsibilities

The Legal Counsel and Director will lead and manage the entire Office of International Standards and Legal Affairs under the Director-General's authority. Key responsibilities include providing advice on all legal matters arising from the Organization's activities, and advising the Secretariat on legal issues related to statutory, standard-setting, and regulatory activities. The role involves providing legal opinions to the General Conference and the Executive Board upon request, and advising on the development, adoption, and revision of international normative instruments and their implementation procedures. Furthermore, the incumbent will formulate opinions on the application, interpretation, and amendment of the Constituent Act and other statutory and legislative texts. This includes directing the preparation and review of cases for representing the Organization in civil and administrative proceedings and other judicial or quasi-judicial instances. The Director will also represent the Director-General in UNESCO governing body committees dealing with legal matters and manage the Office's activities and cooperation with other UNESCO units.

Work Experience

A minimum of fifteen (15) years of relevant professional experience at progressively higher levels of responsibility in the legal field, acquired at the national level and/or within an organization of the United Nations system. Extensive professional experience in leadership and/or management positions is essential, along with proven experience in providing authoritative legal advice on complex and varied matters of national and international law.

Skills

Demonstrated leadership aptitude, strong analytical skills, professional integrity, and diplomacy are crucial. Proficiency in strategic planning, change management, and general management practices is required. Excellent communication, drafting, and presentation skills are necessary for producing high-level reports and engaging with senior officials and governing bodies. The ability to foster collaboration in diverse, multicultural environments and manage relationships at all organizational levels is vital.

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