Legal and Risk Officer

About the role

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority, setting the agenda for sustainable development within the UN system. This position is based in the Executive Office in Nairobi and reports to the Chief of Staff, working closely with various UN entities.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct and Discipline: coordinate awareness initiatives and training, serve as the first point of contact for misconduct concerns, maintain confidential records, provide legal advice to senior management, liaise with internal and UN Secretariat bodies, and act as the Conduct and Discipline Focal Point.
• Risk Management: support the Chief Risk Officer and the Enterprise Risk Management Secretariat, prepare documentation for ERM Committee meetings, assist in periodic risk reporting, update risk‑management tools, collaborate with audit, ethics and compliance functions, and promote a risk‑aware culture through training and communication.
• Grievance Redress: monitor and receive stakeholder complaints, conduct eligibility screening, advise on protective measures, explain the Stakeholder Response Mechanism, maintain a roster of independent experts, support preparation of compliance and dispute‑resolution reports, manage case documentation in the Case Management System, and contribute to annual reporting and policy updates.

Required profile

• Professionalism: solid knowledge of legal principles, civil/common law systems, ability to interpret legislation, draft legal papers and provide sound legal judgment under pressure.
• Planning & Organizing: set clear goals, prioritize activities, allocate resources efficiently, anticipate risks and adjust plans as needed.
• Client Orientation: understand client needs, build trustful partnerships, and tailor services to meet stakeholder expectations.