General Counsel

Description1.    SUMMARYThe BICES Group Executive (BGX), a NATO entity, is the executive body of the BICES Group (BG). The BG exists to enable the sharing and exchange of Intelligence and Information between and amongst the NATO nations, with NATO and with other non-NATO nations and Organizations.
Under the leadership of the Director, BGX is comprised of four key pillars:Intelligence and Enterprise Services (IES) Division;Programmes, Engineering and Maintenance (PEM) Division;Operations and Security Services (OSS) Division;Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Cell.
The General Counsel reports directly to the BGX Director and provides legal advice and services to the Director, Board of Directors, and, as appropriate, other BGX governance bodies, NATO entities and Allied Nations. This is a newly established position within the organization, approved by the Board of Directors during the 54th Meeting of the BOD in Stockholm, 28-30 October 2025.  As such, the incumbent will be required to develop/establish the inaugural Terms of Reference for the post, in coordination with the Director.
The General Counsel advises on all legal matters – domestic and international – that affect the responsibilities, functions, and activities of BGX and the BICES Group. This includes:International law; Personnel and HR-related legal issues; Agreements with nations and partner organizations; Litigation (including staff-related matters); Commercial contracting in support of procurement programs.
As the lead legal advisor, the General Counsel demonstrates initiative, strategic thinking, and creativity. They ensure timely, effective legal counsel that supports BGX’s agile and forward-looking operational approach, and provide guidance to BGX staff as needed.
The General Counsel must uphold the principles of the BGX Charter and Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), ensuring they are reflected in all operational activities, policies, and procedures. They are expected to work independently across a broad and demanding portfolio, while coordinating closely with legal offices across NATO.
The General Counsel will serve as the primary lead on all legal matters, demonstrating initiative, strategic thinking, and creativity. She/he will act as an advisor and counsellor for the BGX Director, ensuring the provision of timely, effective legal counsel that supports BGX’s agile and forward-looking operational approach. The incumbent will also advise BGX staff, as appropriate.
The General Counsel is expected to provide timely and effective advice and legal services to support BGX’s ability to meeting the needs of the future operational challenges. At all times, s/he must ensure that the mandate and principles of the BGX Charter and MOU are upheld and reflected in BGX’s operational activities, policies, and procedures.
The General Counsel must be able to work independently on a wide and demanding portfolio. S/he will also ensure appropriate coordination and collaboration with other legal offices of NATO bodies.2.    QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCEEssential:The incumbent must possess:  A university degree in law from a recognized institution, complemented by relevant professional legal qualifications and licenses;A minimum of 8 years of legal experience;At least 5 years of experience working in an international environment, supporting a diverse workforce and multidisciplinary organization; Extensive expertise in international law, with additional experience in human resources-related legal matters; Excellent analytical skills and a demonstrated ability to produce high-quality legal advice;Proven ability to advise on governance, administrative, and international legal matters; skill in navigating multi-jurisdictional issues, negotiating and drafting legal instruments, and representing clients in litigation before courts or tribunals; Demonstrated resilience in managing demanding workloads and maintaining composure under pressure; Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex legal concepts clearly and concisely; Proficiency in NATO’s official languages: minimum level V (“Advanced”) in English and level I (Beginner) in French.
Desirable:The following would be considered an advantage: Experience working within NATO organizations, national authorities, or comparable environments; Knowledge of  Belgian law; Experience overseeing litigation portfolios and developing litigation strategies; Familiarity with strategic issues and security challenges relevant to the Alliance. 3.    MAIN ACCOUNTABILITIESVision and Direction:Develop, communicate and implement a vision aligned with BGX’s strategic direction and the broader mission of the BICES Group. Ensure common objectives for the short, mid-, and long-term are established and integrated into BGX’s programme of work.
Expertise Development:Apply legal expertise to identify, interpret and assess the legal implications of applicable rules, regulations, and legal frameworks. Monit