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 the mission of alleviating hunger and improving nutrition. WFP is recognized for its efforts and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 202

• The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal employment opportunities for all individuals regardless of their background. WFP is committed to fostering a healthy work environment that aligns with its core values of Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion. For more information, visit their website at https://www.wfp.org and follow them on various social media platforms.

Job Overview:
The position of Legal Consultant within WFP's Legal Office (LEG) is crucial for providing legal advice and support on a variety of finance-related matters. The consultant will primarily work within the Contractual and Constitutional Law Branch (LEGC) and will be responsible for handling complex legal issues that arise in the context of WFP's operations. This role requires a deep understanding of international, commercial, financial, administrative, and contractual law, as well as the ability to draft and negotiate complex agreements with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and private entities. The consultant will also engage in extensive legal research and analysis, ensuring that WFP's legal interests are protected while promoting an equitable and inclusive approach across all areas of work. The position may allow for remote work from the consultant's permanent residence, depending on business needs and personal interests.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Consultant will undertake a wide range of responsibilities, including but not limited to: independently managing complex legal matters, conducting extensive legal research, drafting and reviewing legal documents, providing legal advice on administrative decisions, and supporting negotiations and settlements of claims. The consultant will also be expected to contribute to the identification and mitigation of legal risks, support internal committees and task forces, and promote WFP's diversity and inclusion framework. The role demands a proactive approach to improving legal processes and methodologies, ensuring that legal services are delivered effectively and efficiently. The consultant will work closely with senior legal officers and other stakeholders to ensure compliance with applicable rules and regulations, and to provide clear, well-reasoned recommendations that support strategic decision-making.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Law or a first university degree in Law with additional relevant experience and training, preferably with a specialization in commercial law, finance, and banking law. The role requires in-depth technical expertise in commercial and finance law, strong analytical judgment, and the ability to provide independent legal advice. Candidates should demonstrate adaptability and the ability to manage competing priorities while delivering quality outputs under tight deadlines. Knowledge of UN system policies and procedures is advantageous, as is experience with data protection and technology law. Fluency in English is required, with additional language skills in French and another official UN language being an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in Law, which is essential for understanding the complexities of legal issues that may arise in the context of WFP's operations. Alternatively, a first university degree in Law combined with relevant experience and training may also be acceptable. Specialization in areas such as commercial law, finance, and banking law is highly preferred, as these areas are directly relevant to the responsibilities of the Legal Consultant.

Experience:
The position requires typically eight years or more of progressively responsible experience in law, with at least three years of international experience. Candidates should have a proven track record of providing a wide range of legal services, particularly to senior managers or important clients. Experience in handling complex legal matters and providing legal advice in a humanitarian or international context is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in oral and written English is mandatory for this position, with a required proficiency level of C. Additionally, fluency in oral and written French is also required, along with intermediate knowledge (level B) of another official UN language, such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish. These language skills are essential for effective communication within the diverse and multicultural environment of WFP.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is based in WFP’s Headquarters in Rome, Italy, with the possibility of remote work from the consultant's permanent residence. The role is expected to be full-time, and the consultant will be engaged under a contract that aligns with WFP's terms and conditions. The organization offers an attractive compensation package and emphasizes the importance of providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. WFP is committed to maintaining an inclusive work environment free from discrimination and harassment, ensuring that all employment decisions are made based on merit and individual qualifications.