Deputy Director, Office of Legal Affairs

Position Title:

Deputy Director, Office of Legal Affairs

Classification:
D1

Job Code:
18192

Type of Appointment:
Fixed term, one year with possibility of extension

Estimated

Start Date:

As soon as possible

Closing Date:
25 January 2026

IOM, UN Migration Agency in Geneva, Switzerland is looking for a Deputy Director, Office of Legal Affairs who will support and provide strategic advice to the Legal Counsel in the management of the Office of Legal Affairs and in the development and implementation of a strategic vision for the Office.

• Master’s degree or equivalent or a higher Degree in Law from an accredited academic institution with fifteen years of relevant professional experience.

• Fifteen years of relevant legal experience in public international law and law of international organizations;
• Demonstrated in-depth experience in handling legal matters related to the governance and procedural frameworks of international organizations, such as issues of privileges and immunities; mandates and operational guidelines; and decision-making processes of governing bodies. Experience with constitutional frameworks is advantageous but not required;
• Recent practicing experience in international law, particularly international humanitarian law, and expertise in a wide range of legal issues directly impacting the operations and mandate of international organizations; and,
• Understanding of and experience advising on legal issues related to migration, international and internal displacement, or related fields is highly desirable, highlighting the candidate’s involvement in addressing complex international challenges.

• Strong, independent but collaborative attitude and highest integrity;
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with persons of different national and cultural backgrounds;
• Proven leadership and performance management experience; and,
• Proven skills in negotiations with governments.

IOM’s official languages are English, French, and Spanish. All staff members are required to be fluent in one of the three languages.

For this position, fluency in English is required (oral and written). Working knowledge of another official UN language(Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian and Spanish) is an advantage.

Proficiency of language(s) required will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.