Consultant - Senior Legal Expert

Organization Profile 

Around the world, the number of missing persons is rising – as a result of conflict, climate change, organized crime, migration and other causes. By some metrics, the world is experiencing the highest number of conflicts since 1946.  Conflict and natural disasters, including wildfires, hurricanes and floods, have fueled migration, which in turn has been accompanied by a surge in human trafficking and slavery.  

The International Commission on Missing Persons (ICMP), a treaty-based intergovernmental organization with Headquarters in The Hague, the Netherlands, is seeking an experienced, dynamic and committed individual to join a highly motivated team working on this global challenge. ICMP’s overall strategy is based on upholding international law and securing the rights of families of the missing to truth, justice and reparations.  

Consultancy Background 

ICMP is seeking a Senior Legal Expert to provide strategic and high-level legal advice on matters relating to the administration and management of the organization. The consultancy will support the Head of the Legal Unit in overseeing complex legal issues related to internal governance, personnel policies, and institutional risk management. The Consultant will play a key role in strengthening ICMP’s internal legal framework in line with best practices in international administrative law.

Key Responsibilities

In coordination with, and under the oversight of, the Head of Legal Unit and Legal Advisor, the Legal Expert will, as appropriate:

• Provide authoritative legal advice on employment and administrative law matters, ensuring institutional decisions comply with internal frameworks and international standards.
  


• Advise on misconduct cases and disciplinary referrals, including review of investigative reports and preparation of legal instruments such as charge letters and recommendations
  


• Assist in the review and legal assessment of claims and appeals and prepare draft legal responses.
  


• Advise on legal matters related to staff rules, contracts, and employment arrangements.
  


• Represent ICMP in internal dispute resolution procedures and provide guidance on mediation and settlement strategies.
  


• Draft and negotiate legal agreements and institutional documentation relating to human resources and organizational governance.
  


• Analyze jurisprudence of international administrative tribunals to inform legal strategy and management decision-making.
  


• Contribute to the development and revision of ICMP’s internal legal and regulatory instruments.
  

Qualifications        

• Advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in Law.
  


• Admission to practice law in a national jurisdiction.


• Minimum 10 years of progressively responsible legal experience, with significant advisory work in administrative and        employment law.


• Previous experience working in or advising an international or intergovernmental organization.


• Expert knowledge of international administrative jurisprudence and familiarity with legal proceedings before international tribunals or dispute resolution bodies.


• Professional fluency in written and spoken English; additional language skills (e.g., Arabic, French) are an asset.


• Exceptional analytical, drafting, and communication skills.


• Proven ability to advise senior leadership and manage sensitive legal matters with discretion and sound judgment.
  

Compensation

This is a fixed-term, part-time consultancy. The consultancy duration and working schedule will be discussed and agreed upon with the selected candidate. Remuneration is commensurate with experience and qualifications. Payment will be made within thirty (30) days of approval of an invoice. ICMP provides medical evacuation and travel insurance for official travel. The Consultant is responsible for their own health, life, and accident insurance.

VN close date: 22 September 2025

Expected start date: As soon as possible

PLEASE NOTE: All applications must be submitted in English. Review of applications will begin on 19 September 2025. ICMP will contact shortlisted candidates directly. 

ICMP is committed to maintaining an environment of mutual respect and equal opportunity. We believe diversity and inclusion are essential to our success and actively encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply. ICMP is proud to be a member of the International Gender Champions network.
ICMP may cancel this recruitment without notice or may decide to offer a consultancy with different duties and/or duration.