Legal Officer P3

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to the mission of alleviating hunger and improving nutrition. WFP's vision emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and the importance of a healthy work environment, where employees are selected based on merit and are encouraged to grow professionally and personally through various development programs.

Job Overview:
The Legal Officer P3 position is situated within the Legal Office at WFP's Global Headquarters in Rome, Italy. This role involves providing a comprehensive range of legal services, including the interpretation and application of various legal instruments that govern WFP's operations. The incumbent will work closely with senior Legal Officers and may supervise junior staff, ensuring that legal opinions and advice are prepared and finalized effectively. The position requires a deep understanding of legal principles and the ability to adapt policies to meet the needs of WFP's diverse client community. The role also emphasizes maintaining strong client relationships and projecting a credible image of WFP as a reliable partner in humanitarian efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key accountabilities for the Legal Officer P3 position include conducting extensive legal research and analysis, managing complex legal matters, and preparing legal opinions and documents. Responsibilities also involve reviewing legal documents for inconsistencies, preparing agreements and contracts, identifying potential liabilities, and assisting in the management of risks associated with WFP's activities. The officer will provide legal advice on administrative decisions, represent WFP in tribunals, and support senior Legal Officers in servicing committees and task forces. Additionally, the role may require engaging in litigation proceedings and liaising with external counsel as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Law or a first university degree in Law with additional relevant experience. They must be qualified to practice or admitted to practice by a recognized national or state bar or law society. The position requires at least five years of progressively responsible experience in providing legal services, demonstrating a strong understanding of legal principles and procedures.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in Law is required for this position. Alternatively, a first university degree in Law combined with additional relevant experience and training in private, commercial, or public Law may be acceptable. Candidates must also be qualified to practice law in their respective jurisdictions.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in legal services, which should include a wide range of legal matters and the ability to handle complex legal issues. Experience in international law and humanitarian law is highly desirable, as is familiarity with tribunal processes and procedures.

Languages:
Fluency in English (level C) is mandatory, along with intermediate knowledge (level B) of a second official UN language such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish, or Portuguese. Fluency in Spanish is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This is an International Professional position open to all nationalities, with mobility being a core contractual requirement. The position is classified as 'non-rotational,' meaning the incumbent will not be subject to regular reassignment unless the position is reclassified. The selected candidate will be employed on a fixed-term contract with a one-year probationary period. WFP offers an attractive compensation and benefits package, including a basic salary, post adjustment, relocation entitlement, travel allowances, and medical insurance. The selected candidate will be required to relocate to Rome, Italy, to take up this assignment.