Senior Legal Advisor - Data Protection

Job Posting Organization:
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is the world’s largest humanitarian network, comprising 191 member National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Established to provide humanitarian assistance and support during crises, the IFRC operates under the guiding principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality. The organization is committed to delivering on Strategy 2030, which emphasizes response, resilience, and respect. The IFRC has its headquarters in Geneva and maintains five regional offices located in Nairobi (Africa), Panama (Americas), Kuala Lumpur (Asia Pacific), Budapest (Europe), and Beirut (MENA), along with various representation offices, service centers, and delegations worldwide. The IFRC is dedicated to ensuring compliance with its zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct, including sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment, and discrimination, while also adhering to strict child safeguarding principles.

Job Overview:
The Senior Legal Advisor for Data Protection is a pivotal role within the IFRC's Office of the General Counsel, which encompasses the Legal Department and Data Protection Office. This position is responsible for providing comprehensive legal advice and services on data protection and privacy matters to the IFRC globally. The Senior Legal Advisor will work under the supervision of the Managing Legal Counsel and Head of the Data Protection Office, ensuring that National Societies (NSs) receive the necessary guidance on compliance with data protection laws and regulations. The role requires occasional travel and involves advising on legal risks, compliance obligations, and the structuring of activities related to data protection. The advisor will also lead training initiatives and develop tools to enhance the organization's legal framework regarding data protection.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Legal Advisor for Data Protection will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Advising on and managing compliance and legal risks by providing authoritative legal advice on Federation Secretariat activities and policies to prevent and manage legal risks related to data protection. This includes advising on compliance obligations and conducting data protection impact assessments (DPIAs).
• Leading the development and implementation of organization-wide systems, procedures, policies, and tools related to data protection, including model agreements and training programs for internal and external stakeholders.
• Supporting National Societies by understanding their data protection needs and developing legal services tailored to their requirements, including managing projects that provide legal advice on data protection.
• Monitoring legal developments relevant to data protection and performing other job-related tasks as assigned by the Managing Legal Counsel and Head of the Data Protection Office.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in law (LL.B., J.D., or equivalent) and be admitted to the practice of law. Preferred qualifications include certification in data protection. The ideal candidate will have strong legal research, analytical, drafting, and problem-solving skills, as well as negotiation skills and a service-oriented approach. They should demonstrate cultural sensitivity and the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and external stakeholders, while maintaining discretion and confidentiality.

Educational Background:
A university degree in law is required, with a preference for candidates who have additional certification in data protection. This educational background ensures that the candidate has a solid foundation in legal principles and practices relevant to data protection and privacy.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 7 years of relevant professional experience in a legal environment, which may include law firms, in-house legal departments, government, non-governmental organizations, or international organizations. Experience in contracting and data protection matters, including conducting DPIAs and drafting privacy notices, is essential. Familiarity with applying data protection principles to digital tools and technologies, as well as exposure to multi-cultural and international environments, is preferred. Experience within an international organization or in the non-profit/humanitarian sector is also advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is required. A good command of another IFRC official language, such as French, Spanish, or Arabic, is preferred, as it enhances communication with diverse stakeholders and supports the organization's global operations.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Geneva, Switzerland, and may require occasional travel. The IFRC is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, and candidates from various backgrounds are encouraged to apply. The role is full-time, and the organization offers competitive compensation and benefits in line with its humanitarian mission.