Legal Officer P2

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 extreme weather. 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 2020 for its work in combating hunger and promoting peace.

Job Overview:
The Legal Officer P2 position is situated within the Legal Office at WFP's Global Headquarters in Rome, Italy. This role is crucial for providing legal support related to WFP's supply chain and common services operations, particularly in areas such as procurement, transport, logistics, shipping, aviation, insurance, and construction. The Legal Officer will be expected to engage in a variety of legal matters, ensuring compliance with WFP's rules and policies while also advising on international conventions and agreements. The position requires a proactive approach to legal risk management and the ability to work collaboratively across different branches of the Legal Office, with an expectation to undertake up to 50% of work related to other legal areas. The successful candidate will contribute to the development of legal strategies that support WFP's mission and operational goals, ensuring that legal advice is practical and aligned with the organization's objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Legal Officer P2 will undertake a range of duties including: conducting legal research and analysis on multidisciplinary legal matters; reviewing legal documents and providing recommendations; assisting in the preparation of legal opinions, memoranda, and reports; drafting and reviewing contracts and agreements; managing claims and disputes with suppliers and contractors; identifying potential liabilities and assisting in risk management; providing legal advice on WFP regulations and policies; supporting country offices and global units on legal matters; and contributing to training activities for WFP staff. The role also involves liaising with external counsel and participating in litigation proceedings as necessary, ensuring that WFP's legal interests are protected and promoted.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Law or a first university degree in Law with additional relevant experience. They should be qualified to practice law by a recognized national or state bar or law society, or have equivalent professional legal practice experience. A strong understanding of legal principles, concepts, and procedures is essential, along with the ability to draft clear and concise legal documents. Candidates should demonstrate good negotiation skills, business acumen, and the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are also required, along with the ability to manage competing priorities and work under pressure.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in Law is required for this position. Alternatively, a first university degree in Law combined with relevant experience and training in private, commercial, or public law will be considered. Candidates must also be qualified to practice law by a recognized bar or law society, or possess equivalent professional legal experience.

Experience:
A minimum of three years of relevant experience in law and the provision of legal services is required. Experience in areas such as private commercial law, international trade law, procurement, contracts, logistics, and dispute resolution is highly desirable. Previous experience working in an international organization, law firm, or government institution is considered an advantage, as it demonstrates familiarity with the complexities of legal issues in a global context.

Languages:
Fluency in English (level C) is mandatory, along with intermediate knowledge (level B) of a second official UN language such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish, or Portuguese. Proficiency in additional languages is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's ability to perform effectively in a diverse work environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an International Professional role and is open to candidates of all nationalities. The selected candidate will be employed on a fixed-term contract with a one-year probationary period. The role is non-rotational, meaning the incumbent will not be subject to regular reassignment unless the position is reclassified. WFP offers an attractive compensation and benefits package, including a basic salary, post adjustment, relocation entitlement, travel allowances, and medical insurance. The selected candidate will be required to relocate to Rome, Italy, to take up this assignment.