Chairperson of the Grievance Committee Consultancy

General information:

Timetable: 6-months consultancy contract trial period to then be re-evaluated for potential longer-term engagement.

Deadline for applications: Priority will be given to applications submitted by 30 September 2026 (4pm Paris time).

Travel: Future travel could be contemplated if needed based on discussions and consent with CGIAR.

Purpose:

The Grievance Committee is a central component of the internal justice system of the CGIAR System Organization. Its role is to contribute to resolving disputes brought by staff members concerning the terms and conditions of their employment. The Chairperson heads the Committee, whose two other members are volunteer staff appointed respectively by the Executive Managing Director (EMD) and the Staff Committee and presides over Grievance Committee hearings as Chair of a three-member panel. The Chairperson provides guidance and leadership to the other Committee members on the legal aspects of the proceedings and takes a leading role in drafting the Committee's reports and recommendations in cases brought before it. These recommendations are submitted to the EMD for decision.

It is contemplated the service would be provided one working day every two months, at hours to be determined, though the frequency could be adjusted based on mutual agreement. This could include flexible hours to accommodate CGIAR entity staff across multiple time zones.

Methodology:

• The EMD appoints the Chairperson of the Grievance Committee after consultation with the Staff Committee. The Chairperson exercises their duties with complete impartiality and independence from other System Organization officials and organizational units.
• The Chairperson also supervises the administrative aspects of Committee proceedings, including (i) supervising the work of the Secretary of the Committee, whom the EMD shall appoint; (ii) issuing annual reports to staff on the Committee's work.
• The Chairperson shall be available to devote all the time and attention required by the Committee's caseload. While the Committee's proceedings may be in-person or virtual, the selected candidate should be available to conduct proceedings at the System Organization headquarters as needed.
• The Chairperson's appointment will be for a term of three years, renewable once.
• Further information about the Grievance Committee and its procedures is set out in Part B of the Personnel Policies Manual (Implementation Guidelines). The CGIAR System Organization will furnish the external consultant with existing implemented and/or drafted policies.

Requirements

• Substantial professional experience in employment matters, staff-related matters, the handling of grievances or disciplinary bodies, or the resolution of employment disputes, preferably as an arbitrator or judge or as an advisor/officer in dispute resolution systems of international organizations.
• A law degree, a strong legal background, ability to write clear and concise decisions, and an excellent command of English are requirements for the position.
• International experience or experience with international organizations is desirable but not required.
• A master's degree in law is a plus.
• Flexible hours to accommodate CGIAR entity staff across multiple time zones.

Benefits

All applications must be submitted online by clicking the 'Apply' button below before 16:00 PM CET on 30 September 2026.

If you require assistance or face challenges in submitting your application, please email smo-bidding@cgiar.org with the position title in the subject line. Applications submitted through smo-bidding@cgiar.org will NOT be accepted.

Please ensure your resume and cover letter are in English and does not contain your marital status, age, or photograph. Documents provided in a language other than English will not be considered.

CGIAR is committed to fair, safe, and inclusive workplaces. We believe that diversity powers our innovation, contributes to our excellence, and is critical for our mission. We offer a multi-cultural, multi-color, multi-generational, and multi-disciplinary, collegial working environment. We consciously create an inclusive organization that reflects our global character and commitment to gender equity. We, therefore, encourage applicants from all cultures, races, ethnicities, religions, sexes, national or regional origins, ages, disability status, sexual orientations, and gender identities.

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

We look forward to hearing from you!