Legal Specialist (Commercial) Vacancy Type Internal candidates only
Organizational Context
The Legal Group (LG) at UNOPS provides comprehensive legal advice on institutional, commercial, and administrative law matters to management and various offices. Their expertise covers public international law, dispute resolution, and commercial law, addressing issues such as agreements, privileges, disputes, HR law, procurement, and the establishment of initiatives. They collaborate with external counsel and OLA as needed.
Job Purpose
The Legal Specialist, Commercial, is responsible for delivering timely, efficient, and solution-oriented legal services to safeguard UNOPS from legal, financial, and reputational risks. Reporting to the Legal Advisor, Commercial, this role requires a strong understanding of UNOPS' operational context and a commitment to contributing to a high-performing commercial law team. The specialist will handle complex legal issues in a fast-paced environment, applying analytical and strategic skills to develop effective solutions. Building and maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders and collaborating with other legal and policy units are crucial for providing accurate and practical advice on commercial matters.
Responsibilities
Provide expert legal advice and representation on commercial matters to Project Offices, including reviewing and negotiating agreements, and supporting partnership, funding, procurement, and grant agreements. Offer timely solutions to implementation challenges based on policy and best practices. Represent UNOPS in negotiations with external parties and coordinate interactions with legal retainers and counsel. Recommend policy and process improvements based on field experience, ensuring efficient project implementation and contributing to strategies that enhance efficiency and internal controls. Support knowledge management by documenting legal precedents, conducting research, and providing subject matter expertise. Facilitate training on commercial law topics and, if assigned, act as a Regional Focal Point, managing regional workload and fostering collaboration.
Work Experience
Required relevant experience includes work within a law firm or national/international organization as a commercial, international, or commercial dispute lawyer, focusing on legal analysis, advice, research, and drafting. Experience in communicating complex legal concepts to diverse audiences is also required. Desired experience includes working in multicultural environments or UN system organizations in developing countries, or in development/humanitarian contexts.
Skills
International Law, Legal Advice, Legal Affairs, Legal Research, Liability Analysis, Negotiation, Contract Review, Policy Development, Knowledge Management, Training Delivery.