Legal Specialist - Rwanda Convention Bureau

About the role

The Legal Specialist works at the Rwanda Convention Bureau and provides legal advice and support so that the organisation's decisions, contracts, transactions and operations comply with Rwandan laws, regulations and other legal instruments. The role covers contract management, legal compliance, risk mitigation, dispute resolution, governance and the protection of the organisation's legal interests.

Key responsibilities

• Give legal opinions and advice to management and departments, conduct legal research, interpret legislation and prepare briefs, memoranda and recommendations; monitor legislative changes and advise on their implications.
• Draft, review and advise on contracts, MoUs, partnership and consultancy agreements, addenda and other instruments; take part in negotiations, advise on performance, amendments, renewals, termination and breaches, and keep an up-to-date contract register.
• Assess disputes and potential litigation, prepare case briefs and evidence files, coordinate with external advocates and liaise with courts, tribunals, regulators and public authorities; support negotiations, mediation and settlement.
• Advise on employment contracts, disciplinary procedures, grievances and termination, and review employment decisions for compliance with labour legislation.
• Support the mandate, powers and decision-making procedures of the organisation, and review governance documents, resolutions and policies.
• Review international agreements and cross-border contracts, assess risks and advise on data protection, privacy and confidentiality requirements.
• Maintain legal files and registers, prepare periodic reports on contracts, litigation and compliance, and track legal deadlines.

Required profile

• One of: a Bachelor's degree in Law, an ILPD Legal Practice Certificate or equivalent plus at least 5 years of relevant experience; or a Master's degree in Law, an ILPD certificate or equivalent plus at least 3 years of relevant experience.
• Experience in legal practice, especially contract drafting and negotiation, corporate law, public and administrative law, legal research, compliance, legal risk management and dispute resolution; experience in international trade, treaties and cross-border transactions is an added advantage.
• Strong written and oral English and Kinyarwanda; French is an added advantage.