Legal Officer
Organizational Context
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world's largest humanitarian organization, dedicated to saving lives and building peace through food assistance. This Legal Officer position is within the Legal Office at Global Headquarters (GHQ) in Rome, Italy, reporting to a senior Legal Officer. The Legal Office is structured into three branches, with this role specifically supporting the Maritime, Transport, and Insurance Law Branch (LEGM).
Job Purpose
The Legal Officer P2 will provide comprehensive legal advice and support primarily within the Maritime, Transport, and Insurance Law Branch (LEGM) of WFP's Global Headquarters. This involves undertaking legal research and analysis on complex matters related to WFP's supply chain, commercial operations, procurement, transport, logistics, shipping, aviation, insurance, construction, engineering, and real estate. The role includes drafting and reviewing legal documents, agreements, contracts, policies, and guidelines. The incumbent will contribute to the preparation, negotiation, and settlement of claims and disputes with third parties, assist in managing legal and operational risks, and support dispute resolution and litigation proceedings. A key aspect of this role is the expectation to contribute to work across other branches of the Legal Office, fostering inter-branch engagement and expanding knowledge and skills in administrative and employment law, as well as contractual and constitutional law.
Responsibilities
The World Food Programme (WFP) is seeking a Legal Officer (P2) for its Maritime, Transport, and Insurance Law Branch (LEGM) at Global Headquarters in Rome. This role involves providing comprehensive legal advice and support across various WFP operations, with a particular focus on supply chain activities. Key responsibilities include advising on procurement of food, goods, and services, as well as commercial arrangements for shipping, aviation, logistics, and insurance. The Legal Officer will interpret and apply WFP rules, policies, international conventions, and agreements relevant to supply chain and common services. They will also support commodity management actions, advise on and participate in the negotiation and settlement of claims and disputes with external entities, and assist in dispute resolution and litigation. A significant aspect of the role involves identifying potential liabilities and managing legal and operational risks. The position requires undertaking legal research and analysis, drafting legal opinions and documents, and contributing to the preparation and review of agreements and policies. The Legal Officer will also provide support to WFP offices globally and assist senior legal officers in servicing committees and working groups. The role emphasizes a proactive approach to risk mitigation and awareness of potential liabilities within the organization's operational context. The position is open to all nationalities and requires relocation to Rome, Italy.
Work Experience
The role requires at least three years of relevant legal experience. Desirable experience includes work in private commercial law, international trade law, procurement, contracts, logistics, transport, shipping, aviation, insurance, construction, engineering, real estate, commodity management, claims, or dispute resolution. Experience within an international organization, law firm, government institution, or multinational environment is advantageous.
Skills
Legal research and analysis, Legal document review and drafting, Contract law, Procurement law, International trade law, Logistics and transport law, Insurance law, Dispute resolution, Risk management, Negotiation skills, Communication skills, Problem-solving, Attention to detail, Time management, Interpersonal skills