Legal Consultant

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 its mission. WFP's core values include Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion, and it strives to create a diverse and inclusive work environment. WFP is also a 2020 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, which underscores its significant contributions to humanitarian efforts globally. For more information, visit their website at https://www.wfp.org and follow them on various social media platforms to stay updated on their initiatives and achievements.

Job Overview:
The Legal Consultant position is situated within the Legal Office (LEG) at WFP's Headquarters in Rome, Italy. This role is primarily focused on providing legal advice and support concerning relations and agreements with external parties, including public-sector donors, UN agencies, international organizations, NGOs, and service providers. The consultant will also deal with legal aspects of WFP's governance and interpret its institutional legal framework, which includes General Regulations, General Rules, Financial Regulations, and other administrative issuances. The consultant will be expected to prepare and finalize legal opinions and advice, working closely with senior Legal Officers while also supervising junior colleagues. The role requires a comprehensive understanding of legal matters in the context of WFP's operations, with a significant degree of independence in executing responsibilities. The consultant will engage with various stakeholders to maintain relationships and project WFP's image as a credible partner in humanitarian assistance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Consultant will be responsible for conducting research and providing legal advice on a variety of issues. Key duties include preparing legal opinions, reports, memoranda, and correspondence; reviewing legal documents such as agreements and contracts; drafting legal documents including policies and contracts; and providing legal interpretations on WFP's internal regulations and policies. The consultant will also identify potential liabilities and assist in managing risks associated with WFP's activities, particularly in relation to third parties. Additionally, the consultant will handle complex legal matters involving international, public, private, and administrative law, represent WFP in dispute resolution proceedings, and negotiate commercial and operational contracts. The role may also involve undertaking work related to other branches of the Legal Office, promoting inter-branch engagement and expanding staff knowledge and skills.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Law or a first university degree in Law with additional relevant experience and training. They should have a strong understanding of legal principles and practices, particularly in the context of international law and humanitarian assistance. The ability to draft contracts and legal documents tailored to specific contexts is essential, along with strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. Candidates should also demonstrate business acumen and strategic thinking capabilities, as well as solid time management and prioritization skills. Familiarity with UN system policies, rules, regulations, and procedures is desirable but not mandatory.

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 may be acceptable. This educational background ensures that the candidate has a solid foundation in legal principles and practices necessary for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have three to five years of progressively responsible experience as a lawyer, either in a law firm or in an in-house legal department. Experience working in an international organization is considered an asset, as it provides valuable insights into the unique legal challenges faced in the humanitarian sector. The level of experience required ensures that the candidate is capable of handling complex legal issues and providing sound legal advice.

Languages:
Excellent working knowledge (proficiency/level C) of English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of French at an intermediate level (Level B) is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders and enhance the consultant's effectiveness in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Rome, Italy. The contract duration and specific compensation details will be outlined in the Terms and Conditions section of the vacancy announcement. WFP is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. All applications must be submitted through WFP's online recruiting system, and candidates are advised to ensure their profiles are complete and accurate. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further stages of the recruitment process.