Legal Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. UNEP serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment and operates with a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices. Established in 1972, UNEP has grown to encompass a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries around the world, focusing on various environmental issues and policies.

Job Overview:
The Legal Officer position within UNEP's Corporate Services Division (CSD) is a critical role that involves leading and managing the Legal Unit. The incumbent will be responsible for ensuring the provision of high-quality legal advice and services to senior management and various divisions within UNEP. This role requires handling complex legal matters that span international, public, private, contract, and administrative law. The Legal Officer will also be tasked with drafting and negotiating legal agreements, advising on compliance and risk management, and supervising legal research and opinions. The position demands a proactive approach to legal challenges and the ability to work under tight deadlines while managing multiple projects. The Legal Officer will represent UNEP in various legal forums and contribute to the development of internal policies and procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Legal Officer include leading the Legal Unit's work aligned with key performance indicators, independently managing complex legal matters, providing authoritative legal advice on UN administrative regulations, drafting and negotiating various legal agreements, advising on risk management and compliance frameworks, conducting legal research, managing conduct and discipline cases, supervising legal representation in disputes, and serving on various boards and committees. The Legal Officer will also be responsible for data analysis to support decision-making and will perform any other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong knowledge of both national and international public law, with the ability to analyze complex legal issues and develop innovative solutions. Strong analytical skills, proficiency in legal writing, and the ability to conduct comprehensive legal research are essential. The role requires excellent negotiation skills, the ability to influence others, and the capacity to work under pressure. A demonstrated understanding of contemporary international relations and the UN system is also necessary, along with the ability to leverage technology in legal practice.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in public international law, international corporate law, or related fields is required. A first-level university degree in law combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additional training in public international law or international administrative law is desirable, as is successful completion of programs in data analytics or related fields.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in law, including legal analysis and negotiation in an international or multicultural setting, is required. At least five years of experience in drafting and negotiating international agreements and legal instruments is essential. Experience in legal representation within the UN system or similar organizations, as well as managing a legal office or unit, is also required. Candidates should have experience in providing legal advice at the senior management level and familiarity with legal risk management and compliance.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, but it is not mandatory for this role.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year and may be subject to extension based on the continued existence of the mandate and availability of funding. The position is classified as fixed-term, and external candidates will be granted a fixed-term appointment limited in accordance with UN administrative instructions. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. All applicants must ensure their profiles are complete and up to date, as this information is crucial for the assessment process.