Senior Legal Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO aims to achieve universal health coverage, protect people from health emergencies, and ensure that everyone can enjoy better health and well-being.

Job Overview:
The Senior Legal Officer position at WHO involves providing independent and authoritative legal advice and services to support the organization's mission in global public health. The role requires a deep understanding of international administrative law and the ability to navigate complex legal issues that arise within the organization. The Senior Legal Officer will be responsible for ensuring that WHO's activities are conducted within a solid legal framework, protecting the organization's interests, and advising on legal matters related to personnel, administrative issues, and international agreements. This position also entails representing WHO in legal proceedings and ensuring compliance with international law and WHO regulations. The officer will work closely with various stakeholders, including Member States, international bodies, and internal departments, to facilitate effective cooperation and mitigate legal risks.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Legal Officer will perform a variety of duties, including but not limited to: providing high-quality legal advice on administrative law, personnel matters, and internal justice issues; advising on recruitment processes, staff benefits, and legal ramifications of human resource issues; offering guidance on privileges and immunities for WHO officials; interpreting host agreements and participating in high-level negotiations; representing WHO before the International Labour Organization Administrative Tribunal (ILOAT); preparing legal submissions and keeping abreast of developments in ILOAT jurisprudence; protecting WHO's legal interests in cooperative ventures and partnerships; participating in the work related to WHO governing bodies; supervising junior staff and consultants; and acting as officer-in-charge in the absence of the Principal Legal Officer.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in law or a relevant field. A professional legal qualification, such as passing a national bar exam or experience in litigation, is desirable. Candidates should have extensive knowledge of international administrative law and the law of the international civil service, as well as experience in presenting legal considerations to non-lawyers. Strong communication skills and the ability to analyze and organize complex legal information are essential. Candidates should also demonstrate excellent drafting skills in English, with proficiency in French being an advantage.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (Master's level or above) in law or a related field. A professional legal qualification, such as a national bar exam, is desirable. Candidates should have a strong academic background that supports their understanding of international law and administrative procedures.

Experience:
Candidates must have at least ten years of experience as a lawyer, with a minimum of seven years in legal functions within an international organization or government. Extensive experience in public international law, particularly international administrative law, is essential. Proven experience in the international context and practical litigation experience are also required. Familiarity with the United Nations system and experience advising on legal ramifications in international organizations are desirable.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of French is desirable, as it will facilitate communication within the organization and with French-speaking stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Geneva, Switzerland, and offers a competitive salary starting at USD 103,165, along with a variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living. Benefits include 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependents, home leave, and an education grant for children. The WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. Candidates must confirm vaccination status as required by WHO before undertaking assignments. The organization has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or tobacco users.