Header

Dispute Settlement Lawyer - WTO - World Trade Organization | Switzerland


The Secretariat of the WTO is seeking to fill the position of Dispute Settlement Lawyer in the Appellate Body Secretariat. Serving staff members interested in the position are also invited to apply.
General Functions
1. Deliver substantive technical and legal advice and assistance to Appellate Body Members, initially under the supervision of more senior lawyers, and may from time to time supervise others in less complex disputes.
2. Conduct or direct research on complex substantive technical and legal issues arising in the context of appellate proceedings and arbitrations on the reasonable period of time for implementation. Prepare or guide the preparation of written analyses of these and related issues as required.
3. Provide information, upon request and as appropriate, to Appellate Body Members and the Director of the Appellate Body Secretariat, on the activities of WTO bodies, in particular, the Dispute Settlement Body.
4. Deliver technical assistance and training on the substance and implementation of WTO agreements and dispute settlement practices and procedures and make presentations in academic conferences and other settings. Contribute to the development of training material, internal research materials, and the WTO Appellate Body Repertory of Reports and Awards.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
An advanced university degree in law, including studies in international trade law and public international law. Studies in international economics would be an advantage, as would be a licence or eligibility to be licensed to practice law in at least one municipal jurisdiction.
Knowledge and skills:
Knowledge of international trade law, the WTO agreements, and WTO jurisprudence. Familiarity with international legal and economic principles and issues, and with adjudicative processes and practice, in particular those of the WTO.
Excellent research, drafting and analytical skills and the ability to pay close attention to detail. The ability to present thoughts in a logical, succinct, and coherent manner, both orally and in written form. The ability to work independently as well as cooperate with others in a diverse international setting. The ability to persuade others through sound argumentation and advice while remaining flexible and open to different points of view and evolving approaches. The ability to meet strict deadlines within a dynamic work environment. The ability to supervise others under tight deadlines, manage aspects of the dispute settlement process including time management as well as prioritization of tasks of a team, and to revise drafts to reflect various views in a coherent manner. Highly developed tact and discretion and the ability to adhere rigorously to, and to ensure the adherence of team members to, set rules of conduct ensuring confidentiality, impartiality and an absence of conflicts of interest.
Work Experience:
A minimum of five years of relevant practical experience in the area of international trade law, preferably with a mixture of private/public/academic sector work. Experience in national or international trade-related litigation and/or within judicial institutions or quasi-judicial agencies would be an asset. Experience in supervising others or leading teams would be an advantage.
Languages:
Excellent English, including a demonstrated ability to write accurately, concisely, clearly and within tight deadlines. Good knowledge of French and/or Spanish is highly desirable.
Additional Information:
The position may be offered at a lower grade if the selected candidate does not fully meet all the required qualifications.
Only applications from nationals of WTO Members will be accepted.
For more information and to aplly, please click here.