Senior Legal Counsel

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Position Title: Senior Legal Counsel
Location: Texcoco de Mora
Country: Mexico
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT, the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, is a non-profit, international organization established to address global agricultural challenges. It focuses on improving the quantity, quality, and reliability of production systems for staple crops like maize and wheat, particularly in the Global South. CIMMYT operates through strong partnerships to enhance the livelihoods of resource-poor farmers and aims to create a more productive and resilient agrifood system. As a core CGIAR Research Center, CIMMYT is part of a global research partnership dedicated to reducing poverty and improving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. The organization is committed to sustainable agricultural practices and operates in multiple countries, contributing to food security and agricultural development worldwide. For more information, visit cimmyt.org.

Job Overview:
The Senior Legal Counsel position at CIMMYT is designed for a proactive and detail-oriented professional who will play a crucial role in the Legal Department. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring that CIMMYT meets its regulatory obligations while providing exceptional legal support. This role requires a strong commitment to compliance and excellence in service, as the candidate will work closely with the Compliance Officer and other departments to manage legal risks and ensure adherence to legal standards. The position is based at CIMMYT's headquarters in Texcoco, State of Mexico, near Mexico City, and involves a variety of legal functions including contract management, compliance program implementation, and legal research across jurisdictions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Legal Counsel will execute and implement the Contract Life Cycle Management, which includes the development, drafting, review, negotiation, amendment, and release of agreements with national and international partners. The candidate will support the Compliance Officer in managing case management processes, ensuring accurate documentation and efficient processing of complaints. Responsibilities also include conducting legal research, managing compliance software tools, providing legal advice on various matters, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to develop compliance policies. The role involves identifying legal risks, preparing compliance reports, organizing compliance meetings, and overseeing staff and consultants engaged in compliance functions. The candidate will also prepare educational materials and support the drafting and updating of CIMMYT's legal policies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Degree in Law and a master's degree or LL.M. Additionally, at least 8 years of proven experience in in-house regulatory and compliance functions is required. Experience in agricultural research and development sectors is advantageous. The candidate should demonstrate the ability to provide timely legal advice, possess excellent organizational and communication skills, and have proficiency in Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat. A strong sense of urgency, attention to detail, and the ability to follow up on tasks are essential.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Degree in Law, complemented by a master's degree or LL.M. This educational background is crucial for understanding complex legal frameworks and providing sound legal counsel.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 8 years of experience in regulatory and compliance functions within an in-house legal environment. Experience in sectors related to agricultural research and development is considered an advantage, as it provides context for the legal challenges faced by CIMMYT.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Spanish is mandatory. Candidates will be tested on their English proficiency, with a minimum requirement of C2 on the CEFR scale. This bilingual capability is essential for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
CIMMYT offers an attractive remuneration package that includes benefits beyond the provisions of Mexican Labor Law. These benefits include a year-end bonus equivalent to 40 days of salary, a vacation premium of 56%, life and medical insurance, supermarket coupons, a savings fund, and social benefits under Mexican law (IMSS, SAR / Infonavit). The organization supports continuous professional development, making it an appealing workplace for legal professionals.