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Legal Officer

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FAO

Jan 23, 2025

Applications are closed

  • Job
    Full-time
    Senior Level
  • Government & Politics
    Legal
  • Rome

Requirements

  • Advanced university degree in law. A first level university degree in law combined with an additional two years of relevant work experience and with completion of professional qualification to practice law in a national/state jurisdiction may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.
  • Seven years of relevant legal experience in public international law, law of international organizations, international administrative law and contract law.
  • Working knowledge (proficiency - level C) of English and intermediate knowledge (intermediate proficiency - level B) of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian or Spanish).

Responsibilities

  • Reviews a wide range of multidisciplinary and complex legal matters involving issues of international, public, private and administrative law, including interpretation and application of instruments (both substantive and procedural).
  • Provides legal advice on diverse substantive and procedural questions of considerable complexity, which may include those related to administration and management, institution support, procurement, contracts and other operational matters.
  • Performs extensive legal research and analysis and prepares legal opinions, studies, briefs, reports and correspondence; provides legal advice to the Member Nations.
  • Reviews and advises on and drafts complex contracts, agreements, institutional and operational modalities, or legal pleadings/submissions and other legal documents; develops new legal modalities to meet unique needs/circumstances.
  • Advises on and participates in negotiations and settlement of claims and disputes, recommends legal course of action/approach, legal text for terms and conditions of contracts, etc.
  • Serves on various standing boards, committees, ad hoc working groups and task forces, as required; promotes the work of LEG and represents the organization in meetings, conferences, seminars, etc.
  • Provides legal advice on matters linked to FAO Governing and Statutory Bodies, prepares relevant documentation and consults with counterparts in other United Nations Specialized Agencies and other relevant entities as appropriate.
  • Provides legal advice on matters related to FAO's operations and status, including on questions related to privileges and immunities of the Organization and that of its personnel, as well as on the conclusion of host country agreements and operational arrangements.
  • Provides legal advice on a variety of issues arising from complex contractual arrangements, including for the receipt of voluntary contributions, as well as modalities for collaboration with a variety of partners including the private sector, and the development of innovative modalities to promote FAO's operations and meet unique needs/circumstances supporting delivery of FAO's mandate as appropriate.
  • Advises on the legal aspects of human resources related matters, including on appeals filed within the internal justice system and the Administrative Tribunal of the International Labour Organization, disciplinary processes, policy review and clearance, and other requests as required.
  • Supervises and guides junior staff and consultants and reviews their work in this context.

FAQs

What is the application deadline for the Legal Officer position?

The application deadline is 12/Feb/2025 at 4:59 PM.

Where is the primary location of the Legal Officer position?

The primary location is in Rome, Italy.

What is the duration of the employment for this position?

The duration is a fixed-term of two years with the possibility of extension.

What are the minimum educational requirements for this role?

An advanced university degree in law is required. Alternatively, a first level university degree in law, combined with an additional two years of relevant work experience and completion of a professional qualification to practice law in a national/state jurisdiction may be accepted.

How much relevant legal experience is required for this position?

A minimum of seven years of relevant legal experience in public international law, law of international organizations, international administrative law, and contract law is required.

What languages are required for this position?

A working knowledge (proficiency - level C) of English and intermediate knowledge (intermediate proficiency - level B) of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) are required.

Are there any specific competencies expected for candidates?

Yes, candidates are expected to demonstrate competencies in results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing and continuous improvement.

How can candidates apply for the Legal Officer position?

Candidates can apply by visiting the FAO recruitment website, completing their online profile, and attaching a letter of motivation.

Is there an opportunity for career advancement within FAO?

Yes, FAO offers opportunities for career advancement, including the possibility of contract extension and progression within the organization.

What benefits are included with the Legal Officer position?

Benefits include a competitive compensation and benefits package, dependency allowances, rental subsidy, education grant for children, home leave travel, 30 working days of annual leave per year, health insurance, and pension fund entitlements.

Will candidates undergo any checks prior to employment?

Yes, all selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, and the appointment will be subject to medical certification and security clearances.

Working for a sustainable world and secure #FutureofFood for all. Our actions are our future.

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Industry
10,001+
Employees
1945
Founded Year

Mission & Purpose

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialised agency of the United Nations focused on achieving global food security and eradicating hunger. The organisation works with governments, institutions, and communities to improve agricultural productivity, promote sustainable farming practices, and ensure that everyone has access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food. FAO's ultimate mission is to end hunger and malnutrition, contributing to a world where food systems are sustainable and resilient. Their purpose is to support global efforts in creating a better future by promoting sustainable development, reducing rural poverty, and ensuring food security for all.