Legal Officer (Head, Contract Law Division, Manila Unit) (P)

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a Related Organization of the United Nations. It is the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. IOM's mission is to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, providing services and advice to governments and migrants. The organization is committed to creating a workplace where all employees can thrive professionally while harnessing the full potential of migration. IOM operates in numerous countries worldwide, with a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing the challenges and opportunities of migration.

Job Overview:
The Legal Officer (Head, Contract Law Division, Manila Unit) will play a crucial role in overseeing the operations of the Contract Law Division within the Office of Legal Affairs. This position involves managing the day-to-day activities of the Manila Unit, ensuring that all legal advice and contract-related matters are handled efficiently and in accordance with IOM's legal framework. The Legal Officer will be responsible for reviewing and approving various types of contracts and agreements necessary for the development and implementation of IOM projects. This includes providing timely legal advice on potential disputes and problems related to contracts, as well as conducting training for IOM staff on contract-related matters. The role requires a strong understanding of contract law and the ability to navigate complex legal issues while maintaining a collaborative approach with internal and external stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Officer will oversee and manage the daily operations of the Manila Unit within the Contract Law Division. Key responsibilities include reviewing and approving contracts and agreements, revising and updating IOM contract templates, providing legal advice on disputes, and conducting training sessions for staff. The Legal Officer will also participate in negotiations of legal terms, represent the division in internal meetings, and assist in leading the functions of the division. Additional duties may include drafting or reviewing research papers on legal issues, following up on relevant meetings and conferences, and performing other tasks as assigned by the Division Head.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Law from an accredited institution with at least five years of relevant professional experience, or a University degree in Law with seven years of relevant experience. A minimum of five years of professional legal experience is required, including at least two years of practicing contract law in an international organization, private sector entity, or law firm. Demonstrated experience in contractual negotiation and disputes is essential, and experience in managing a team is considered an advantage. Candidates should also have proven legal research and contract review skills, membership in a national bar or equivalent legal qualification, and knowledge of the privileges and immunities of international organizations is a plus.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master’s degree in Law from an accredited academic institution or a University degree in Law. The educational background should be complemented by relevant professional experience in legal practice, particularly in contract law.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of five years of relevant professional legal experience, with at least two years specifically focused on contract law. Experience in negotiating contracts and handling disputes is crucial, along with a demonstrated ability to manage a team effectively. Candidates with experience in international organizations or law firms will be given preference.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, both oral and written. A working knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, Russian, Spanish, or French) is considered an advantage. The proficiency in required languages will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract for one year, with the possibility of extension. The role is classified at the P-3 grade level and is intended for professional recruitment. Candidates should be prepared for international mobility as part of their responsibilities. The selection process may also be used to fill similar positions in various duty stations. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations, including discrimination and harassment. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system.