Deputy Head of the Office of Legal Affairs

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of Legal Affairs (OLA) is a crucial component of the Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), which provides comprehensive legal services across the organization. Established to ensure adherence to public law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law and internal justice matters, OLA plays a vital role in advising on financial and contractual matters, as well as legal issues related to the OSCE's structure and activities. The office is integral to the functioning of the OSCE, supporting the Secretary General in implementing the organization's mandate and tasks assigned by participating States. OLA is committed to developing and strengthening the regulatory framework of the OSCE and ensuring its effective implementation. The office operates within a diverse international environment, reflecting the OSCE's commitment to inclusivity and cooperation among its member states.

Job Overview:
The Deputy Head of the Office of Legal Affairs is expected to provide expert legal advice on a wide range of issues affecting the OSCE. This position involves preparing timely legal opinions and representing OLA in various working groups and committees. The Deputy Head will assist the Head of OLA in mentoring Junior Professional Officers and other staff, ensuring a consistent approach to legal advice across the organization. The role requires close coordination with the Head of OLA on requests for legal advice, particularly regarding the interpretation and application of the OSCE's Common Regulatory Management System and other administrative matters. The Deputy Head will also be responsible for overseeing the office in the absence of the Head, ensuring that all legal functions are carried out effectively and efficiently.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide expert and timely legal advice on the interpretation of the OSCE's regulatory framework, including Financial and Staff Regulations, and prepare drafts and reviews of proposed amendments.
• Advise on complex legal issues related to the OSCE's functions, including legal status and privileges of the organization and its officials.
• Assist in the drafting, negotiation, and interpretation of legal instruments, including international agreements and memoranda of understanding.
• Provide legal advice on contractual matters, including dispute resolution and intellectual property rights, and participate in drafting high-value commercial contracts.
• Advise on procedural issues arising in OSCE decision-making bodies.
• Conduct legal research and prepare legal opinions, studies, and reports.
• Serve as Officer-in-Charge of the office in the absence of the Head of OLA.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in Law, with a second-level degree being desirable. A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible professional experience in law is required, including at least three years in international organizations. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of the legal frameworks governing international organizations and possess digital literacy, particularly in Microsoft Office applications. Professional fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent communication skills. Knowledge of another official OSCE language is considered an asset. Candidates should also exhibit gender awareness and sensitivity, and the ability to work collaboratively in a diverse team environment.

Educational Background:
A first-level university degree (Bachelor's or equivalent) in Law is required for this position. A second-level university degree would be advantageous, indicating a higher level of legal education and expertise.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of seven years of professional experience in law, with at least three years spent working in international organizations. This experience should include legal analysis, research, and writing, demonstrating a progressive responsibility in legal matters.

Languages:
Professional fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills. Knowledge of another official OSCE language is considered beneficial and may enhance a candidate's application.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract at the P4 level, with a full-time schedule. The monthly remuneration is approximately EUR 7,800, subject to adjustments based on family status and post adjustment. OSCE salaries are exempt from taxation in Austria, and social benefits include participation in the Cigna medical insurance scheme and the OSCE Provident Fund. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds. The maximum period of service in this post is seven years, and appointments are subject to medical clearance. The mandatory retirement age for contracted positions is 65 years.