Legal Affairs Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential from early childhood through adolescence. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development to its staff. UNICEF is known for its inclusive culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, making it a desirable workplace for individuals passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and communities worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Legal Affairs Specialist position at UNICEF in Rome is a critical role within the Legal Team, which supports various business units globally by providing strategic legal solutions. The specialist will be responsible for advising internal clients on legal matters related to private sector partnerships and fundraising operations. This includes negotiating agreements with key partners and service providers, advising on policy development, and addressing implementation issues. The role requires a proactive approach to legal interpretation and collaboration with teams across the organization, ensuring that legal advice is timely, risk-informed, and pragmatic. The specialist will also engage in capacity building and training initiatives, sharing knowledge with colleagues to enhance the overall legal framework within UNICEF.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Affairs Specialist will have a range of responsibilities, including:

• Leading negotiations with private sector partners and financial service providers for partnership agreements and fundraising operations.
• Advising on policy development and interpretation related to private sector partnerships.
• Collaborating with various teams within UNICEF to address legal matters in diverse contexts.
• Providing legal interpretation of UNICEF's regulatory framework and developing training for staff.
• Supporting legal knowledge management and governance projects throughout their lifecycle.
• Taking on additional tasks as required, demonstrating ownership and accountability for their portfolio. The specialist is expected to maintain high levels of responsiveness to clients, communicate effectively, and manage expectations while escalating issues when necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of an advanced university law degree (e.g., LL.B post-graduate, LL.M, J.D.) in a relevant field of law, such as international or commercial law. Alternatively, a first-level university law degree combined with two years of qualifying work experience may be accepted. The role requires a minimum of eight years of progressively responsible experience in legal practice, particularly in international or commercial law, with experience in law firms, private practice, or international organizations being essential. Candidates should demonstrate expertise in commercial negotiations, possess excellent research and legal writing skills, and have strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position includes an advanced university law degree in a relevant field of law. In certain cases, a first-level university law degree may be accepted if accompanied by additional qualifying work experience. This flexibility allows for a broader range of candidates to be considered, ensuring that those with substantial practical experience can also apply for the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least eight years of progressively responsible experience in legal practice, specifically in areas relevant to UNICEF's operations. This includes experience in international law, commercial law, or related fields. Candidates should have a background in law firms, private practice, or international organizations, which will provide them with the necessary skills and insights to navigate the complexities of legal issues faced by UNICEF.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in another language, particularly one of the official languages of the United Nations (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish), is desirable and will enhance a candidate's suitability for the role. This linguistic capability is important for effective communication within the diverse international context of UNICEF's operations.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term appointment for an initial duration of two years, with the possibility of extension. It is essential for candidates to be aware that UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. The organization offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates should also be prepared for background checks and medical clearance as part of the recruitment process. UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct and is committed to safeguarding the rights of children.