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Legal Counsel (D-2), Office of the Legal Counsel

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), a specialized agency of the United Nations based in Geneva, Switzerland dedicated to developing a balanced and accessible international intellectual property (IP) system, is seeking highly qualified and experienced candidates for the position of Legal Counsel, within the Office of the Legal Counsel (OLC).  OLC is responsible for providing legal advice and assistance to the Director General, to the bodies of WIPO Member States and to the secretariat on constitutional, administrative, contractual, and general legal matters, and in respect of the depository functions of WIPO-administered treaties, in harmony with statutory requirements and applicable law. It is also responsible for the management of the WIPO Lex database. The Legal Counsel is responsible for directing the work of the Office of the Legal Counsel and planning, coordinating and supervising the above-mentioned legal functions and activities in accordance with the Organization’s constitution and other legal and policy texts. 
Qualifications and experience required
Education
Essential
Advanced university degree in law with a specialization in international public law or administrative law.
Experience
Essential
At least 15 years of professional experience in a legal field, including in international public law and administrative law of relevance to international organizations. Experience in a senior managerial role, including direct supervisory responsibilities over a team. 
Languages
  
Essential
Excellent written and spoken knowledge of English and good knowledge of French.      
Desirable
Knowledge of other UN official languages.
Knowledge, skills and competencies
Essential
In-depth knowledge of international law, as well as the practical application of legal principles, concepts and policy to a range of legal issues in the area of public international law.
Knowledge of international, regional and bilateral instruments concerning intellectual property.
Ability to articulate technically complex and politically sensitive notions with clarity, tact and diplomacy.
Political acumen and excellent negotiation skills.
Excellent decision-making and problem-solving skills.
Independent judgment and capacity for critical analysis.
Strong leadership skills to motivate staff, promote interest and engagement and teamwork.
Excellent ability to communicate and interact with WIPO’s directorate, senior management, Member States and other key stakeholders.
Good knowledge of results-based management principles.
Excellent communication, networking and interpersonal skills and ability to maintain effective partnerships and working relations in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.
Desirable
Knowledge of the United Nations System.
For a complete job description and information on how to apply through WIPO’s e recruitment system, please consult our recruitment page at:  https://erecruit.wipo.int/public/.  Reference:  Vacancy Announcement FT/15/D2/FT059
The deadline is July 8, 2015.