The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change.

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS

The deadline for applications is 8 May 2024 (11:59pm Rome, Italy time)

ORGANIZATIONAL CONTEXT

The Legal Office is organized in three branches that advise on the various aspects of WFP’s work: • The Administrative and Employment Law Branch (LEGA) provides advice to management on all aspects of the employment relationship between WFP and its employees;]

• The Contractual and Constitutional Law Branch (LEGC) provides advice on all aspects of WFP’s internal governance, private sector partnerships, commercial and other contractual activities, including cash-based transfer programmes, treasury functions, and communications; and

• The Maritime, Transport and Insurance Law Branch (LEGM) provides advice on all aspects of WFP’s supply chain activities, including procurement (food, goods & services), maritime, aviation, logistics (inland transportation, storage and warehousing), United Nations Humanitarian Response Depots and insurance.

The Junior Legal Consultant will be assigned to LEGC. The role will be diverse and will involve providing legal advice and working on a variety of matters covered by LEGC, including those related to private-sector partnerships.

The Junior Legal Consultant may, however, work on assignments in other branches and areas of activity within LEG, based on business needs and expressed personal interests.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES (not all-inclusive)

Under the general supervision of a Legal Officer, the Junior Legal Consultant will be responsible for the following key duties:

• Undertake legal research and analysis; work on a range of legal matters including interpretation and application of various legal instruments to support the provision of quality legal services;

• Review legal documents, identify and analyze important issues, present findings and recommendations for internal review to support the decision-making process;

• Assist with the preparation of legal opinions or advice on a wide range of legal issues;

• Assist with the negotiation and preparation of agreements and contracts with public and private entities including private sector partners, governments, other UN organisations and NGOs, financial institutions, digital payments providers and other commercial entities, and assist with contractual interpretation and disputes to meet unique client needs;

• Assist with the identification of potential liabilities, particularly vis-à-vis third parties, and assist in the management of risks in WFP’s activities to facilitate well-informed decisions;

• Assist in the preparation of negotiations and settlement of claims and disputes with public and private entities;

• Take responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives in all areas of work; and

• Other, as required

EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

Education: University degree in Law.

Work Experience: At least one year of relevant professional experience in the field of law.

Knowledge Skills:

• Legal research, analysis and drafting skills.

• Articulate and concise thinking.

• Good planning, organization and time management skills.

• Good communication and interpersonal skills.

• Tact and a high degree of discretion and confidentiality.

• Adaptability and ability to work on a wide range of legal issues.

• General knowledge of UN system policies, rules, regulations and procedures is a plus.