Contract Information

Fixed-term for two years (first year is probationary) with the possibility of further extension, subject to satisfactory performance

Salary Information

US$ 70,212 net per annum, plus post adjustment (currently US$ 56,801). Salary is free of income tax in the United Kingdom

Purpose

Under the overall supervision of the Director, Legal Affairs and External Relations Division and the Deputy Director/ Head, Legal Affairs Office and immediate supervision of the Senior Legal Officer the incumbent will be responsible for legal advice in support of legal and administrative functions at IMO, with a particular focus on employment, contract law and litigation

Duties and Responsibilities

1 Serves as a lead officer in one or more areas of concentration, and independently handle a wide range of multi-discipline and complex legal matters involving issues of international, public, private and administrative law, including employment and contract law. 2 Provide strategic legal advice on the interpretation and application of staff regulations and rules. Prepare amendments, if needed and ensure coherence with existing frameworks. Contribute to the development of HR policies and practices related to administrative law, disciplinary measures, and the UN justice system. 3 Provide legal advice on complex staff disputes and disciplinary proceedings;. Lead the preparation and filing of submissions and motions before the Staff Appeals Board and United Nations Tribunals, and provide expert advice in the negotiation and resolution of claims and disputes arising from staff cases, safeguarding the Organization’s legal and administrative interests.4 Prepare and review IMO contracts pertaining to the procurement of goods and services, as well as any other agreements submitted to the Legal Affairs Office for scrutiny. Actively participate in, and provide strategic legal advice during, negotiations with contractors and entities to ensure the protection and advancement of the Organization’s legal interests. Advise on copyright, confidentiality, privileges and immunities and other liability matters as well as resolution of potential disputes. Provide expert guidance on complex contractual arrangements and agreements, and contribute to the development of innovative legal frameworks and modalities tailored to address unique organizational needs and circumstances.5 Prepare legal advice on the interpretation and implementation of the Headquarters Agreement and the Convention on the Privileges and Immunities of the Specialized Agencies and make recommendations for the safeguarding of these privileges and immunities; advise on the legal status and rights of different categories of staff members and their dependents, including taxation matters; and advise on legal questions concerning the relations with the host country.6 Advise on copyright and trademark matters, including licensing, permissions, and infringement issues. Ensure compliance with IMO’s Intellectual Property Policy.7 Provide Secretariat services to the Legal Committee, the Council and the Assembly, in particular preparing clear and accurate background documents, briefs and relevant parts of the reports.8 Prepare and collate information and documentation on the legal work of IMO and present it to Member States , organizations or international conferences and meetings.9 Perform other related duties as may be required

Required Competencies

Excellent ability to draft in correct, clear and concise English, particularly in legal documents.Thoroughness and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in delivery and implementation.Demonstrate analytical and legal research skills Ability to work independently under general guidance, and to exercise initiative and judgement.Demonstrated ability to multitask and to work under pressure to tight deadlines

Experience

A minimum of five years professional experience in providing legal advice on employment law and procurement contracts is essential. Experience in drafting submissions to United Nations Dispute Tribunal and the United Nations Appeals Tribunal is essential. Knowledge of UN General conditions of contracts is an asset

Education

University degree in law is essential. Master in law is desirable

Language Skills

A high level of proficiency in oral and written English is essential. Excellent drafting skills are essential

Others

Familiarity with the work and general functioning of the UN system and knowledge of the UN common system’s regulatory framework in particular UN justice system would be an asset