Legal Advisor

Job Description

Within the Senate’s administrative office, the Registry, there has been a growing need for legal support and validation in recent years. This is evident from the increasing number of inquiries and the rise in legal costs. As a legal advisor to the Senate, you ensure that the organization complies with applicable laws and regulations in its operations and manage legal risks. You will hold a unique position within the Dutch government and serve as an experienced and indispensable link within the legal framework. 

Advice and support

The Senate deals with various areas of law. As a legal advisor to the Senate, you will contribute to a wide range of legal matters. For example, you will provide input and advice on issues related to private law, administrative law, political-legal matters, and general administrative law. In addition, there are various laws that previously did not apply to the Senate but now do or will apply. An example is the Open Government Act (Woo). You will report to the Director of Organization regarding your work. The coordination of legal activities is handled by the Senate’s strategic legal advisor. Furthermore, you will be involved in: 

• advising the chair, the board of chairs and vice chairs, the management team, department heads, and coordinators within the Registry’s operations
• identifying and analyzing developments in the legal field
• translating the Senate’s strategy into legal policy frameworks
• handling legal matters, including Woo requests
• participate in legal proceedings within the Senate
• representing the Senate in legal proceedings and in consultations with external agencies and organizations on legal policy issues 

Job Requirements

Because you work with many different colleagues, you have a good sense of administrative and political dynamics. When asked for advice, you provide “the client” with a well-reasoned explanation. In such situations, you apply your analytical skills and quickly get to the heart of the matter. You are solution-oriented, creative, and persuasive. You engage people with your advice and know how to back it up effectively. Additionally, you have: 

• a bachelor's degree in a legal field
• extensive experience as a legal advisor, preferably in the public sector or a similar organization and in the field of freedom of information law
• knowledge of the legal landscape of the Senate and a keen legal instinct  

Terms of Employment

Salary level: Grade 12, Grade 13

Monthly salary: Min. €4,278 – Max. €7,094 (gross)

Employment status: Fixed-term employment contract with the possibility of conversion to a permanent contract

Contract duration: 1 year

Minimum number of hours per week: 36

Maximum number of hours per week: 36 

Other terms and conditions of employment

In addition to your salary, you will receive a flexible benefits package (IKB). The IKB consists of monetary benefits (16.37% of your gross annual salary) and time off. With the IKB, you can make choices that suit you and customize part of your employment benefits. For example, you can choose to have a portion of your monthly income paid out whenever you wish. You can also convert this budget into leave and vice versa, or spend it on tax-friendly purposes. The Dutch government is strongly committed to personal growth and career development and offers numerous opportunities for this. The fringe benefits include various study facilities, company fitness programs, full reimbursement of your public transportation costs for commuting, and partially paid parental leave. 

Details

• We want to give you a clear and comprehensive picture of the role, your colleagues, and the context of our organization. That’s why we’re scheduling two interviews at our office. During these interviews, you’ll have the chance to talk with your teammates, the management team, and HR, and get a feel for the atmosphere.
• Naturally, we also hope to get as complete a picture of you as possible. As part of this process, an assessment and reference check (both online and by phone) are part of the selection process.
• This position occasionally requires some flexibility. Work within the Senate often takes place outside of regular office hours, and your presence may be required on such occasions.
• Conversely, you can also expect flexibility from us when it comes to balancing your work and personal life. For example, it’s common practice within the organization to work partly from home.
• Do you have any questions about the position? Please contact Jan Punt, Strategic Legal Advisor, at 06-11750415
• Do you have any questions about the process? Please contact Roel Joosten, HR Advisor, at 06-11750372
• Interested in applying? You can apply until May 31, 2024. 

Interested in applying?

The government is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive organization. Working in diverse teams makes us more effective, more innovative, and makes the work more enjoyable. Everyone is therefore invited to apply.