Conseiller/Conseillère juridique et Directeur/Directrice (Réaffichage)

Organizational Context

The UNESCO Office of International Standards and Legal Affairs 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, formulating authoritative and sound legal opinions on diverse national and international law matters. It involves significant managerial responsibilities, guiding and supervising staff across various organizational units. The incumbent will oversee the analysis of administrative, substantive, and procedural issues, contributing to the Organization's overall policy and objectives. Reporting to the Director-General, the Legal Counsel will lead and manage the entire Office, ensuring administrative direction, strategic orientation, and effective management of human and financial resources.

Responsibilities

The Legal Counsel and Director will provide advice on all legal matters arising from the Organization's activities. This includes 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 of UNESCO upon request. Furthermore, the incumbent will advise on the development, adoption, and revision of international normative instruments and their implementation procedures. They will formulate opinions on the application, interpretation, and modification of the Constituent Act and other statutory and legislative texts. The Director will lead the preparation and review of cases for representing the Organization in proceedings before civil and administrative tribunals and other judicial or quasi-judicial bodies. The position also entails representing the Director-General in committees of UNESCO's governing bodies dealing with legal matters. Finally, the Legal Counsel will manage the Office of International Standards and Legal Affairs, directing its activities and fostering cooperation with other UNESCO units.

Work Experience

A minimum of fifteen (15) years of relevant professional experience at progressively responsible levels in the legal field at the national level and/or within a United Nations system organization is required. Extensive professional experience in leadership/management positions is essential. Proven experience in providing authoritative legal advice on complex and varied matters of national and international law is necessary.

Skills

Key skills include strong leadership, objectivity, analytical abilities, professional integrity, and diplomacy. Proficiency in strategic planning, management, and driving organizational change is crucial. Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills are vital for managing diverse teams and fostering collaboration in multicultural environments. A deep understanding of international legal practices and procedures, along with knowledge of UNESCO's mandate and strategic priorities, is essential.

Explore related opportunities