Senior Legal Adviser

Job Posting Organization:
CERN, the European Organisation for Nuclear Research, is a leading scientific institution established to probe the fundamental structure of the universe. It employs physicists and engineers who utilize the world's largest and most complex scientific instruments to study the basic constituents of matter. CERN's mission is to provide a unique range of facilities for the study of matter, fundamental particles, and the laws of nature. The organization has a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries, fostering an inclusive environment that values diversity as a core principle.

Job Overview:
The Senior Legal Adviser position at CERN is a prestigious role that requires a distinguished track record in public law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law and a deep understanding of the legal frameworks governing intergovernmental organizations. The successful candidate will join the Legal Service, which is integral to the execution of CERN's mission. This role involves providing high-level legal expertise on governance issues, advising on privileges and immunities, and representing the Legal Service in various internal and external interactions. The Senior Legal Adviser will oversee the drafting and implementation of internal legislation and policies, contribute to legal representation in disputes, and mentor junior legal advisers. This position is pivotal in ensuring that CERN operates within the legal frameworks that govern its activities and in supporting its mission through effective legal guidance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Legal Adviser will have a broad legal portfolio and will be responsible for several key functions:

• Providing high-level legal expertise on CERN's governance for management and governing bodies.
• Advising on matters related to privileges and immunities of the organization and its personnel.
• Representing the Legal Service in discussions with a wide range of interlocutors, including high-level authorities from Member and Associate Member States.
• Overseeing the drafting, implementation, and interpretation of internal legislation, policies, and regulations.
• Providing strategic oversight and contributing to legal representation in employment and Pension Fund disputes, including before the Administrative Tribunal of the International Labour Organisation (ILOAT) and in commercial disputes.
• Supervising and mentoring legal advisers to ensure quality and professional development.
• Contributing to the management of the Legal Service and stepping in for the Legal Counsel when necessary.
• Potentially being assigned work in other legal domains as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent relevant experience in public international law or a related field, with a strong focus on law applicable to intergovernmental organizations. Additionally, candidates should have substantial experience in public international law, particularly in treaty interpretation, IGO governance, and privileges and immunities. Skills in negotiation with stakeholders at various levels and proven capacity in representing an organization in high-level external meetings are essential. Experience with litigation before administrative tribunals, such as ILOAT, and increasing responsibilities in managing a legal team are also required.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in public international law or a closely related field is mandatory for this position. The educational background should emphasize knowledge relevant to intergovernmental organizations and international legal frameworks.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have significant experience in a senior role within an intergovernmental legal setting. This includes a proven track record in public international law, particularly regarding treaty interpretation and governance of intergovernmental organizations. Candidates should also demonstrate experience in managing legal teams and providing strategic guidance to junior colleagues, as well as exposure to litigation processes.

Languages:
Fluency in both spoken and written English and French is mandatory, with advanced drafting proficiency in both languages being essential for the role. This bilingual requirement is crucial for effective communication and legal drafting within the organization.

Additional Notes:
The position is a limited duration contract for 5 years, with the possibility for holders of limited-duration contracts to apply for an indefinite position under certain conditions. The working hours are set at 40 hours per week, and the job is fully onsite at CERN's headquarters outside Geneva. The job grade is classified as 6-7-8, and the reference for this job posting is DG-LS-2025-235-LD. CERN emphasizes diversity and encourages applications from all Member States and Associate Member States.