Associate Legal Officer

Org. Setting and Reporting

This position is located in the Office of the President at the Arusha branch of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals. The incumbent will work under the guidance of the President and the Chef de Cabinet and Principal Legal Advisor and will report to the Chef de Cabinet and Principal Legal Advisor.

Responsibilities

Under the guidance of the President, the Chef de Cabinet, and the Legal Officers at both branches, the incumbent will provide legal support with respect to the President’s mandated functions, including drafting and reviewing orders and decisions; analyzing the relevant law, rules and policies; and providing specialised legal advice to the President and legal staff of the Office. The incumbent will further support the Office by drafting letters, memoranda, talking points, position papers, and speeches, and will provide policy advice. The Associate Legal Officer will perform other duties as assigned.

Competencies

• Professionalism: Knowledge of procedural and substantive law at the international level; ability to conduct comprehensive legal analysis; ability to analyze and interpret international legal instruments; ability to develop and present results/recommendations/opinions clearly and concisely, both in writing and orally. Possesses excellent drafting skills and the ability to plan own work and manage conflicting priorities. Shows pride in work and in achievements. Demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter. Is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results. Is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns. Shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges. Remains calm in stressful situations.
  
• Communication – Speaks and writes clearly and effectively. Listens to others, correctly interprets messages from others and responds appropriately. Asks questions to clarify, and exhibits interest in having two way communication. Tailors language, tone, style and format to match the audience. Demonstrates openness in sharing information and keeping people informed.
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• Teamwork – Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organisational goals. Solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others. Places team agenda before personal agenda. Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position. Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings.
  
• Planning and Organising – Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies. Identifies priority activities and assignments, adjusts priorities as required. Allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work. Foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning. Monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary. Uses time efficiently.

Education

Advanced university degree in law, preferably with specialization in international, criminal, humanitarian or administrative law. A first level university degree in law in combination with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree.

Work Experience

Minimum of 2 years of progressively responsible professional legal experience, at either the national or international level, preferably with an emphasis in criminal law, international law, humanitarian law or administrative law.
Previous experience in one of the ad hoc Tribunals is highly desirable.

Languages

English and French are the working languages of the Mechanism. For the post advertised, fluency in written and spoken English is required. Working knowledge of French is highly desirable.

Assessment

There may be a technical test followed by a competency-based interview.