Referendar*in für die CONNEX Support Unit

Job Posting Organization:
The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) is a government-owned enterprise that has been supporting the global implementation of development policy goals for over 50 years. With a presence in 120 countries, GIZ collaborates with partner organizations on a wide range of projects aimed at improving lives and providing meaningful tasks for its employees. The organization is committed to making a difference in the world while fostering personal development for its staff.

Job Overview:
The position of Referendar*in for the CONNEX Support Unit involves working within the resource sector, which presents significant opportunities for economic and social development in resource-rich countries. The role is crucial as governments in these partner countries face the challenge of maximizing state benefits, safeguarding the interests of their populations, and attracting foreign direct investments. Often, these countries lack the necessary capacities to negotiate effectively with international investors. The G7 CONNEX Initiative was established in 2014 to assist partner governments in preparing for and conducting negotiations with investors in the areas of resources and infrastructure. The CONNEX Support Unit, under the GIZ, serves as the implementation structure for this initiative, providing support to partner countries in contract negotiations, institutional strengthening, and the development of tailored support services. The role will also involve advising the relevant department in the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) on pertinent issues.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Referendar*in include supporting the project in revising its governance structure and strategic orientation, providing legal advice on project development and execution, and developing conceptual ideas regarding the ecological and social dimensions of resource promotion and infrastructure development. The role also entails conducting project-specific research and analysis in relation to ESG criteria, providing content and organizational support for (online) events, particularly the CONNEX Advisory Committee meetings, documenting relevant working meetings, and assisting in information and knowledge management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have passed the First State Examination in Law and be currently undergoing legal preparatory service (Referendariat). They should possess initial practical and/or academic experience in development cooperation and international collaboration. Ideally, candidates should have knowledge in the resource and/or infrastructure sector or in the fields of economics, human rights, and ESG criteria. Strong motivation, teamwork skills, and the ability to quickly familiarize oneself with new topics are essential. A self-reliant, structured, and reliable working style, along with good time management skills, are also required. Proficiency in processing extensive texts using office applications is necessary, as well as the ability to break down complex issues into easily understandable texts. Excellent written communication skills in both German and English are mandatory, while additional knowledge of French or Spanish is considered advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes having completed the First State Examination in Law, which is a prerequisite for entering the legal preparatory service. This indicates a strong foundation in legal principles and practices, which is essential for the tasks involved in this role.

Experience:
The level of experience needed for this position includes having completed the First State Examination in Law and being in the legal preparatory service. Candidates should also have some initial practical or academic experience in development cooperation or international collaboration, which will help them navigate the complexities of the role effectively.

Languages:
Proficiency in German and English is mandatory for this position, as the role involves significant written communication in both languages. Knowledge of French or Spanish is considered a plus, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders and documents.

Additional Notes:
The GIZ is a signatory of the Diversity Charter, emphasizing the importance of recognition, appreciation, and inclusion of diversity within the organization. All employees are expected to experience respect, regardless of gender identity, nationality, ethnic origin, religion, disability, age, or sexual orientation. The GIZ aims to increase the representation of people with disabilities in the organization and encourages applications from such individuals. For content-related inquiries, candidates can contact Mr. Leopold von Carlowitz. Applications for this position can be submitted on a rolling basis, and candidates are encouraged to specify their preferred period of engagement in their application. Interested applicants should send their cover letter and CV via email.