Director of the Administrative Law Division

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of Human Resources (OHR) is a vital component of the United Nations, dedicated to ensuring that the organization operates effectively and efficiently through its personnel. OHR is responsible for the recruitment, development, and management of UN staff, ensuring that the organization adheres to its standards of conduct. The OHR operates within the Department of Management Strategy, Policy and Compliance (DMSPC) and plays a crucial role in implementing policies that affect all categories of personnel across the UN Secretariat. The organization is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, promoting gender balance and geographical diversity among its staff. The OHR is involved in various initiatives aimed at improving the workplace culture and enhancing the overall effectiveness of the UN's human resources management.

Job Overview:
The Director of the Administrative Law Division (ALD) is a senior leadership position within the Office of Human Resources, responsible for overseeing the implementation of UN standards of conduct and providing strategic legal advice on internal justice matters. The Director will report directly to the Assistant Secretary-General for Human Resources and will play a pivotal role in addressing disciplinary cases and promoting accountability across the UN Secretariat. This position requires a dynamic individual who can navigate complex legal issues, manage critical incidents affecting personnel welfare, and build capacities among UN entities to uphold the organization's core values. The Director will also be responsible for leading a team, managing resources, and ensuring high-quality outputs in line with the UN's mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director's responsibilities include overseeing and coordinating actions related to disciplinary cases for both staff and non-staff personnel, implementing preventive measures and risk management strategies, and providing a coordinated response to critical incidents. The Director will build capacities among Secretariat entities, support decision-making processes, and represent the Secretary-General on administrative law issues. Additionally, the Director will lead the formulation and implementation of the Division's work program, manage recruitment efforts to ensure diversity, and foster a positive work environment. The role also involves representing the UN at international meetings and conferences, providing substantive expertise, and ensuring compliance with UN standards of conduct.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of administrative law, legal dispute resolution, and litigation. They should demonstrate professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to the UN's values. The ideal candidate will have excellent planning and organizational skills, a client-oriented approach, and the ability to lead and inspire teams. Strong judgment and decision-making capabilities are essential, as the Director will need to navigate complex situations and make impactful decisions that align with the UN's mission.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in law or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) combined with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
Candidates must have over 15 years of progressively responsible professional experience, with at least 5 years in administrative law. They should also have a minimum of 5 years of senior managerial experience leading large teams in international or non-governmental organizations. Experience in change management, strategic improvements, and building effective partnerships is essential. Familiarity with UN policies, regulations, and inter-governmental legislative processes is desirable.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the UN, and proficiency in French is considered an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is funded by the Regular Budget and is initially for a period of one year, subject to budgetary approval and the availability of the post. The UN is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, encouraging applications from underrepresented Member States. Staff members must fulfill lateral move requirements to be eligible for this vacancy. The UN Secretariat is a non-smoking environment, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. Candidates will undergo reference checks to verify their qualifications and personal history.