Job Description:
Our organization is looking to appoint a seasoned legal expert and leader in the position of the Head of Sino-Swiss Legal Affairs and Dispute Resolution. The ideal candidate will possess comprehensive knowledge of international law, with a focus on Sino-Swiss relations and will be able to leverage their expertise to spearhead strategic initiatives that align with our mission.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Leadership & Direction: As the head of Sino-Swiss legal affairs, the successful candidate will be expected to lead strategic planning initiatives, overseeing their design, implementation, and evaluation to ensure alignment with the overall organizational mission. They should exhibit experience and competence in driving key decisions, managing risks, and taking appropriate action to ensure the successful execution of projects and initiatives.
- Global Network Management: A significant aspect of the role will be nurturing and expanding our extensive global network of legal experts, CEOs, and government officials. The candidate will be required to leverage their diplomatic and intercultural skills to foster stronger international relations and understanding, particularly between Switzerland and China.
- Expertise in Dispute Resolution: The successful candidate will have an impressive track record in international dispute resolution. This will include experience in leading teams in resolving complex legal disputes and familiarity with alternative dispute resolution methods and strategies. They should possess an intimate understanding of both commercial matters and specialized disputes, demonstrating an ability to navigate complex legal landscapes effectively.
- Research & Development Leadership: Given the importance of ongoing learning and development in the rapidly evolving field of international law, the ideal candidate will be expected to spearhead research initiatives. These initiatives should focus on contemporary and emerging areas in international law, such as the impacts of new technologies and international dispute resolution mechanisms. Experience in generating and applying practical insights from such research would be highly valued.
- Event Management & Public Engagement: The role will involve planning, organizing, and leading international forums and seminars to promote our services, engage with our stakeholders, and influence public and expert discourse. The successful candidate will demonstrate a capacity to attract substantial audiences from various countries and regions and execute high-quality, impactful events.
- Linguistic Proficiency & Intercultural Communication: The nature of the role necessitates high-level communication skills in multiple languages. Therefore, fluency in Mandarin, Cantonese, and English is required. Basic Knowledge in Russian, German, and French will be an added advantage, facilitating more effective engagement with our diverse global membership and stakeholders.
Qualifications & Experience:
- An advanced degree in Law (LL.M) from a recognized institution is required; a PhD in Law or a related field, in progress or completed, would be highly desirable.
- Demonstrable leadership experience in a related field, with a significant focus on Sino-Swiss relations.
- In-depth knowledge and understanding of Chinese and Swiss law and legal practices, as well as international law.
- A strong record of achievement in dispute resolution, particularly in an international context.
- Proven ability to plan and execute successful international forums and seminars.
- Excellent multilingual communication skills, with fluency in Mandarin, Cantonese, and English; knowledge in Russian, German, and French would be advantageous.
- An established network in legal and governmental circles, both in Switzerland and China, would be beneficial.
Desired Skills & Competencies:
- Prior experience in leading digital transformation initiatives within a legal setting.
- A demonstrable record of publishing research in recognized journals or similar publications.
- Deep understanding of cultural practices and commercial expectations in Switzerland and China, reflecting an ability to operate effectively in different cultural contexts.
- Experience working with, or consulting for, organizations such as the International Law Commission.
- Strong interpersonal and diplomacy skills, reflecting an ability to manage relationships effectively and influence key stakeholders.
- High levels of organizational and project management skills, reflecting an ability to lead multiple projects and initiatives effectively.
- Key Performance Indicators:
- Strategic Development & Execution: Evidence of successful strategic planning, including the development of key strategic initiatives that align with and further the organizational mission, and efficient implementation of these strategies.
- Networking & Relationship Management: Growth and development of the global network, measured through increased membership, sustained member engagement, and successful fostering of international relations, particularly Sino-Swiss connections.
- Dispute Resolution Effectiveness: Successful management and resolution of complex international legal disputes, reflected in favorable outcomes and client satisfaction.
- Research Contributions & Development: Creation and dissemination of meaningful, actionable research in the field of international law, particularly concerning emerging areas and current topics.
- Event Management & Outreach: Successful planning and execution of international forums and seminars, measured by audience size, participant feedback, and the impact of these events on the broader discourse in international law.
- Multilingual Communication & Intercultural Effectiveness: Evidence of effective communication with diverse global membership and stakeholders across language barriers, and successful navigation of cultural differences to further organizational goals.
Work Environment & Conditions:
- This role is based in Geneva, Switzerland, with potential for travel, primarily between Switzerland and China, as per organizational requirements.
- The role requires frequent interaction with a global membership base, diverse stakeholders, and representatives from different countries and regions.
- Given the nature of the work, some flexibility in working hours may be required to accommodate different time zones and the scheduling of international events.
Career Development Opportunities:
- This role offers opportunities for significant professional growth within the organization, including potential advancement to higher leadership roles.
- The successful candidate will gain substantial exposure to international law practices and dispute resolution mechanisms, which can broaden their professional repertoire and contribute to career advancement.
- As part of the role, the incumbent will have opportunities to engage with high-level stakeholders in the field of law and international relations, facilitating the growth of an influential professional network.
Renumeration Package
In recognition of the critical role that the Head of Sino-Swiss Legal Affairs and Dispute Resolution will play in our organization, we have designed a comprehensive remuneration package that reflects the breadth and depth of the responsibilities that come with the position. The package incorporates various elements, ensuring that our employees are well-compensated and their needs are thoroughly taken care of. Below are further details:
- Base Salary: This role offers a highly competitive base salary that is aligned with the candidate’s level of expertise, qualifications, and experience. We conduct regular market benchmarking surveys to ensure our salary rates are at par with or exceed industry standards.
- Performance Bonus: To reward exceptional work, we provide a performance-linked bonus system. This system gauges the achievement of individual and team objectives, as well as the overall performance of the organization. We believe that the bonus component motivates our employees to strive for excellence, hence driving the success of our organization.
- Healthcare Benefits: Our organization offers an extensive health insurance plan, ensuring that all medical, dental, and vision care needs of our employees and their dependents are covered. Our commitment to the wellbeing of our staff extends beyond the workplace.
- Retirement Plan: Understanding the importance of future financial security, we offer a robust retirement plan. We contribute a certain percentage of the employee’s salary towards a retirement fund, ensuring a stress-free retirement.
- Professional Development Opportunities: We encourage and facilitate lifelong learning by offering numerous professional development opportunities. We sponsor attendance at international conferences, workshops, and specialized training programs related to your field. We also provide educational assistance for further academic pursuits relevant to your role.
- Paid Time Off: To promote a healthy work-life balance, we provide generous paid time off, including annual leave, public holidays, personal and sick leave. We believe rest is essential for maintaining productivity and fostering creativity.
- Relocation Assistance: If you’re relocating, we’re here to support you. Our relocation assistance program includes financial support for moving expenses and help with finding housing. Additionally, we offer a settling-in service to help you and your family adjust smoothly to your new environment.
The specific elements and amounts included in the remuneration package will be discussed individually during the final stages of the recruitment process. We assure candidates that our pay structure adheres to all laws and regulations and is designed to be fair, transparent, and free from any discrimination.
The Hiring Process:
- Application: Interested candidates are invited to apply by submitting a detailed resume and a cover letter highlighting their qualifications and experience relevant to the job description. The application deadline will be communicated in due course.
- Screening: Applications will be screened, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage of the hiring process.
- Interviews: Interviews will be conducted with shortlisted candidates. These interviews may be virtual or in-person, depending on the geographical location of the candidate and the prevailing conditions.
- Reference Check: A reference check will be conducted for the selected candidates.
- Job Offer: The final candidate will receive a job offer detailing the terms and conditions of employment.
- Onboarding: Once the offer is accepted, the candidate will be guided through the onboarding process.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
We take pride in being an equal opportunity employer, steadfast in our commitment to cultivating diversity and inclusion within our workforce. We embrace and value the unique perspectives and experiences that individuals from varied backgrounds bring to the table. We believe that this diversity enriches our organizational culture, spurring innovation and fostering a dynamic and vibrant work environment.
Our recruitment and selection process is strictly merit-based, focusing on the skills, qualifications, and competencies that align with the demands of the role. We are uncompromising in our pursuit of excellence, seeking candidates who demonstrate both the aptitude and the passion to drive our mission forward.
In our organization, every individual’s contribution is recognized and valued. We strive to create a work environment that is not only conducive to professional growth but also promotes mutual respect and collaboration. We have zero tolerance for discrimination on the grounds of race, gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Furthermore, we are dedicated to accommodating the needs of all our employees. This includes providing necessary support and modifications to individuals with disabilities, ensuring their full participation and advancement within our organization.
In essence, our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equality is not just about compliance with laws—it is about creating an organization where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and has equal opportunities to thrive and succeed.
Please send your CV and your Cover letter to [email protected] for any interested application.