Legal Officer

Legal Officer

November/2024

JOB POSTING

LEGAL OFFICER

The Caribbean Maritime University (CMU), the only specialized maritime university in the English-speaking Caribbean is inviting applications for the post of LEGAL OFFICER (Level 7).

JOB SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Vice President, Administration/University Registrar the incumbent is responsible for providing legal services to the University, including the provision of general legal advice to Executives and Management. The incumbent shall also perform drafting, review and amendment of contractual documents, partnership agreements and other legal documentation.

KEY OUTPUTS

• Technical advice provided;
• Annual Legislation Programme prepared and negotiated;
• Drafting Instructions prepared;
• Technical and other reports prepared and submitted;
• Memoranda and contracts prepared and reviewed.

 TECHNICAL RESPONSBILITIES

• Provides legal counsel to all stakeholders regarding the interpretation and application of laws that govern or impact the university;
• Coordinates all legal matters for the university;
• Provides legal protection and risk management advice;
• Provides guidance to the university's disciplinary processes;
• Prepares, reviews and provides advice on all Cabinet Submissions and Judicial Committee Submissions prepared by other divisions/departments;
• Assists in the formulation, implementation and/or amendment of the university policies;
• Keeps abreast of Acts and Regulations and recommends amendments as necessary;
• Serves as a liaison between the university and external legal counsel in drafting amendments;
• Oversees proposal development processed to advise on legal implication on all plans of action;
• Spearheads the review process for all contracts, tenders and agreements to identify and advise on legal implications for proposed clauses;
• Reviews and endorses letters, grants, cooperative agreements and contract proposals;
• Represents the university in legal proceeding as required;
• Ensures strong industry, stakeholder and customer engagement;
• Delivers value in partnership/co-op programs;
• Monitor the legal affairs of the university, ensuring that they remain in compliance with all laws and regulations concerning their field;
• Write and review settlement documents, contracts, agreements, and more;
• Determine the priority of tasks and schedules within the general framework and timeframe determined by Senior Management;
• Exercise discretion in determining the approach to work on projects undertaken and is responsible for interpretations and recommendations made;
• Work autonomously on a range of tasks and initiatives and undertakes research and analyzes information independently;
• Provide and seek advice and information from clients and stakeholders on legal matters;
• Identify key issues and resolve potential conflicts at an early stage and sets own priorities for work projects consistent with prescribed deadlines set by the Vice President.

 PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

• Technical advice provided is technically sound (advice provided is legally and ethically sound and comports with relevant Jamaican laws)
• Provides sound legal guidance on matters affecting the University
• Annual Legislation Programme prepared and negotiated within established timeframe;
• Drafting Instructions prepared within agreed timeframe;
• Legal and other reports prepared are accurate, comprehensive and submitted within an established timeframe.

 REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor of Laws Degree
• Certificate of Legal Education
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Certificate in Dispute Resolution is an asset
• At least five (5) years related experience
• Practical experience in policy development, lobbying and litigation
• Writing, editing, proofreading and proficient typing skills.

 REQUIRED COMPETENCIES

Core

• Oral and written communication
• Analytical and Logical Reasoning
• Knowledge of Substantive Law and Legal Procedures
• Technology Skills
• Creative Problem Solving
• Commercial Awareness

Technical

• Knowledge of legislations, acts, regulations and policies that govern the University.
• Knowledge of Legal Framework of Government.
• Knowledge of contract negotiations and drafting.
• Good knowledge of legal strategies and rules of statutory interpretations.
• Sound knowledge of portfolio specific regulations, acts and laws, such as:  Pensions (Public Services) Act, Financial Administration and Audit Act
• Must demonstrate a high degree of knowledge and understanding of legal concepts pertaining to areas of responsibility.

 Interested persons should send their application and resume by November 14, 2024 to:

Director, Human Resources & Administration/Deputy Registrar

P.O. Box 8081

Kingston