Chief Legal Officer

The International Council of Peace and Security (ICPS) is an independent international NGO based in Geneva, committed to building a safer, more peaceful world for all. We believe that peace is not just the responsibility of governments and institutions—it is a shared effort, where every individual has a role to play. Our mission is to bridge research and action, providing expert analysis on global security challenges while fostering diplomatic dialogue between individuals, policymakers, and international institutions. Through our 12 specialised research disciplines, we analyse conflicts, assess emerging threats, and provide the public with knowledge to better understand global security challenges. We publish policy recommendations for governments and international bodies, advocating for peaceful solutions, humanitarian protection, and security strategies that prioritise human rights and the safety of all people.

At ICPS, we believe that peace is a collective effort and we work for humanity. Our work is driven by experts, researchers, and engaged individuals from diverse backgrounds who contribute to meaningful discussions and solutions. Whether through research, policy guidance, or public engagement, we strive to create a space where everyone can play a role in shaping a more secure and peaceful world.

Wherever you are, whoever you are!

We believe that the internet is one of the greatest resources humanity has achieved, giving us the opportunity to exceed our physical boundaries. ICPS welcomes all; regardless of gender, ethnicity, and age. We embrace diversity and as an international NGO with more than 39 different nationalities, our aim is to support diversity within our teams and allow people all around the world to have the opportunity to join and contribute and grow in their fields of interest.

About the Position

ICPS is seeking an accomplished and visionary Chief Legal Officer to spearhead our Legal Affairs and Legal Compliance departments and advance the growth and wellbeing of our diverse volunteer workforce. As the CLO, you will be responsible for designing and executing legal strategies that support ICPS’s mission, foster an inclusive organisational culture, and align legal initiatives with the strategic objectives of ICPS. You will have oversight of legal and compliance strategies across ICPS, with direct line management responsibility for two legal affairs and legal compliance directors, each overseeing a specialised sub department. You will lead strategic planning meetings with these directors to establish high quality, effective legal and compliance policies, provide mentorship, and enhance current legal framework and compliance regulations to ensure they meet the highest standards of professionalism and effectiveness.

This position offers an unparalleled opportunity to shape the legal function of an international organisation that is at the forefront of academia and art. We are looking for an individual who brings passion, strategic acumen, and a commitment to excellence, with a genuine interest in making a meaningful impact on an international scale. The CLO will be instrumental in building an inclusive, high performing work environment that supports ICPS’s mission and values.

Key Responsibilities

As the CLO, you will play a critical role in safeguarding ICPS\’s legal integrity and advancing its mission for international peace through innovative legal leadership. Your responsibilities will include:

Strategic Legal Leadership:

• Develop, implement, and oversee legal strategies aligned with ICPS’s vision, mission, and strategic objectives. Provide forward-thinking legal counsel to the executive board and Board of Directors, ensuring the organisation remains proactive in addressing legal challenges and opportunities on a global scale.

Legal Compliance and Governance:

• Ensure full compliance with international laws, Swiss law and regulations, and best practices in governance. Establish and maintain robust legal frameworks and policies that uphold ICPS’s ethical standards and ensure consistency across all jurisdictions in which ICPS operates.

Risk Management and Mitigation:

• Identify, assess, and manage legal risks that may impact ICPS’s operations and reputation. Develop strategies to mitigate risks effectively, including negotiating, drafting, and reviewing contracts, agreements, and partnerships to protect ICPS’s interests.

Stakeholder Engagement and Advisory:

• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including international regulatory bodies, to address complex legal issues. Serve as a trusted advisor to the executive board on legal matters, providing insights into legal trends, policy developments, and implications for ICPS.

Training and Capacity Building:

• Lead initiatives to strengthen legal awareness within ICPS, equipping staff and volunteers with the knowledge to adhere to legal standards and practices. Mentor legal teams within the organization to build capacity and promote leadership in legal excellence.

Skills and Competencies Required:

• Proven track record of legal leadership at the executive level, ideally within an international, non profit, or intergovernmental organisation. Deep expertise in international law, regulatory compliance, and risk management, with a focus on strategic thinking and delivering measurable outcomes.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex legal issues clearly and persuasively. Strong interpersonal skills to build credibility and trust, mediate disputes, and represent the legal department effectively in both internal and external settings.
• A high degree of integrity, ethical judgment, and professionalism, with an unwavering commitment to confidentiality, transparency, and the mission of ICPS. Consistently upholds the highest standards of legal and ethical conduct while advocating for fairness and justice.

Qualifications

• A master’s degree in Law (LL.M.), Juris Doctor (J.D.), or an equivalent legal qualification from an accredited institution. Specialization in international law, corporate governance, compliance, or nonprofit law is highly desirable.
• Licensed to practice law in at least one jurisdiction, with eligibility for recognition in Switzerland.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive legal experience, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role managing legal teams and overseeing compliance functions. Experience working in or with international, intergovernmental, or nonprofit organizations is highly desirable.
• Proven management experience leading legal and compliance teams, including supervising directors of legal affairs and compliance. Demonstrated success in building motivated, high performing teams and fostering a culture of collaboration and inclusivity.
• Exceptional advisory experience as a trusted consultant and primary point of contact on legal and compliance matters for executive boards and boards of directors. Ability to provide clear, actionable guidance on complex legal issues.
• Fluency in English (CEFR C1), proficiency, is required. Proficiency in French is highly desirable but not mandatory.
• Demonstrated ability to serve as a liaison with government bodies and regulatory authorities, particularly in Switzerland. Familiarity with reporting requirements and legal correspondence with the Canton of Geneva is a strong asset.
• Comfortable with part time commitment, contributing 8–10 hours (20%) per week, with availability for remote work, selecting your own working hours and the flexibility to visit the Geneva office once a month for administrative tasks (highly appreciated but not mandatory).
• A motivational and empathetic leadership style, with a commitment to fostering inclusivity, integrity, and excellence. Strong interpersonal skills to inspire trust and credibility within the organization.

What We Offer

• An opportunity to shape the future of a dynamic, mission driven organisation that contributes to international peace and security.
• An online certificate with an international serial number after completing one year at ICPS.
• Access to ICPS\’s Executive Education Certificate Program, which includes six courses totaling 64 hours, specifically tailored for your role, with international certification.
• Access to a global network of seasoned professionals and consultants, offering tailored support to help you grow, excel, and advance in your area of expertise.
• We promise you a green world, a new feature. Join a fully net-zero carbon emission organisation committed to supporting a greener world.
• Flexible working hours based on project deadlines. You must be available to work 8-10 hours per week, with the flexibility to choose your working hours.
• The chance to be part of our volunteer organisation, contributing to ICPS\’s humanitarian mission to promote international security and peace for all.
• Possibility of contract renewal with advancement at your field at the end of your 1 year according to evaluation of the ICPS Board.
• The opportunity to work remotely, providing flexibility and the ability to balance your work with other commitments.
• The chance to work with a diverse team of individuals from around the world, supporting the organisation\’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
• Being credited with your name, picture and also being credited in the \’Team\‘ section.
• Training sessions from our valuable and well-experienced team members.
• Being part of our volunteer-based organisation, and the satisfaction of contributing and doing good to the world.

ICPS is an equal opportunity provider. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, familial status and other legally protected characteristics.

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