SENIOR LEGAL OFFICER (TJO)

Org. Setting and Reporting

This position is located within the Office of the Assistant Secretary-General of the International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism to assist in the Investigation and Prosecution of Persons Responsible for the Most Serious Crimes under International Law Committed in the Syrian Arab Republic since March 2011 (IIIM). The incumbent is under the direct supervision of the Head of the IIIM.

Responsibilities

Within delegated authority, the incumbent will be responsible for the following duties: A) LEGAL: 1) Provides authoritative legal advice to the Head of the Mechanism on strategic, managerial and substantive aspects of accountability for core international crimes, and independently handles a wide range of multi-disciplinary, highly complex, and often sensitive and/or conflicting legal matters involving issues relating to international, criminal and administrative law relevant to the Mechanism's mandate; 2) Advises on and supervises the review, negotiation and drafting of major contracts, memorandum of understanding and other relevant legal instruments related to inter alia sharing of information and evidence, witness protection, and the operations of the Mechanism with a range of external stakeholders including States, international governmental organizations and NGOs; develops new legal modalities to meet unique needs/circumstances. B) PROGRAMME ADMINISTRATION: 1) Supervises staff assigned to the Mechanism's witness support and protection unit; 2) Oversees programmatic/administrative tasks necessary for the functioning of the Mechanism; 3) Contributes to and supervises others’ contributions to the Mechanism's bi-annual reports to the General Assembly; 4) Provides strategic and diplomatic advice to the Head of the Mechanism to support successful mandate delivery.

Competencies

PROFESSIONALISM: Knowledge of international legal procedures and instruments, including criminal law, both substantive and procedural as well as of international criminal justice systems is required. Ability to apply legal expertise to analysing a diverse range of complex and unusual legal issues and problems and in developing innovative and creative solutions in support of accountability for the most serious international crimes; proficiency in legal writing and expression and ability to prepare legal briefs, and a variety of legal instruments and related documents. Discretion and sound judgment in applying legal expertise to sensitive, complex legal issues. Strong negotiating skills and ability to influence others to reach agreement. Ability to work to tight deadlines and handle multiple concurrent projects/cases. Good knowledge of UN system is essential. Proven diplomatic skills in engaging Member State representatives at the senior level. Shows pride in work and in achievements; demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter; is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, o...