Senior Legal Officer (Temporary Job Opening)

Job Posting Organization:
The Office of Staff Legal Assistance (OSLA) is part of the United Nations' Office of Administration of Justice (OAJ). It is responsible for providing legal assistance to staff members within the UN system. The OSLA aims to ensure that staff members have access to legal support in administrative, disciplinary, and appellate proceedings. The Chief of OSLA, who is the Senior Legal Officer, reports directly to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Executive Director of OAJ and oversees the management and functioning of the legal assistance program. The organization is committed to maintaining high standards of legal support and ensuring that staff members' rights are protected within the internal justice system.

Job Overview:
The Senior Legal Officer (Chief) will play a crucial role in the Office of Staff Legal Assistance, overseeing the provision of legal assistance to UN staff members. This position requires a strong understanding of administrative and employment law, as well as the ability to navigate complex legal issues within the UN framework. The Chief will coordinate the work of legal officers, provide strategic legal and policy advice, and ensure the effective discharge of OSLA's mandate. The role involves advising clients on appeals against administrative decisions, representing clients in formal internal justice proceedings, and managing resources allocated to the unit. The Senior Legal Officer will also be responsible for developing standard procedures and monitoring mechanisms to enhance the efficiency of the unit's operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Legal Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Ensuring the effective and efficient discharge of OSLA's mandate.
• Coordinating and supervising the work of legal officers and other staff within the unit.
• Providing strategic legal and policy advice to maximize resource utilization.
• Advising clients on appeals against administrative decisions and disciplinary measures.
• Offering legal advice on complex substantive and procedural questions to resolve workplace disputes.
• Representing clients in the internal justice system, including before the UN Dispute Tribunal and Appeals Tribunal.
• Preparing written and oral submissions in accordance with procedural requirements.
• Managing human, financial, and other resources allocated to the unit.
• Developing and maintaining standard procedures and monitoring mechanisms. 1
• Preparing reports on the unit's work for the General Assembly and other bodies. 1
• Analyzing emerging issues and recommending strategies. 1
• Coordinating outreach and training activities. 1
• Managing a network of volunteer/pro bono counsel and legal interns. 1
• Advising the Executive Director on administrative and logistical matters related to the unit's operations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in law, particularly in administrative and employment law. They should have the ability to analyze complex legal issues and develop innovative solutions. Strong analytical skills, legal writing proficiency, and the ability to conduct comprehensive legal research are essential. Candidates should also demonstrate discretion, sound judgment, and strong negotiating skills. Knowledge of the UN system and its regulations is crucial, along with managerial and interpersonal skills. The ability to work under tight deadlines and manage multiple projects is also required.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in law is required for this position. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) in law, combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience, may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in law, including legal analysis, research, and writing. At least five years of experience as a litigator appearing before courts and tribunals in administrative law, labor, or employment law is required. Additionally, a minimum of three years of experience in managing teams or an office, including the management of lawyers, is necessary. Experience in providing legal advice in civil procedure, administrative law, or employment law is also required, while experience in criminal law litigation is desirable. Familiarity with the UN common system or similar international organizations is an advantage.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is considered desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in the same areas.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available until 31 May 2027, with the possibility of extension. The selection process may be limited to internal candidates, and the appointment is subject to the availability of the post or funds. The United Nations is committed to diversity and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is dedicated to maintaining a non-smoking environment.