Executive Legal Officer

About the role

The Executive Legal Officer will provide high‑level legal and policy support to the Samoa Law Reform Commission in Apia. This full‑time, on‑site position involves researching legislation, drafting reform proposals and advising on legal frameworks that align with Samoan customs and development goals.

Key responsibilities

• Research and analyse existing statutes, case law and commercial contracts to inform law reform initiatives.
• Draft reports, discussion papers, legislative proposals and briefing materials for internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate with Commissioners and staff on law reform projects and strategic planning.
• Advise on legal frameworks during consultations with government agencies, community groups and professional bodies.
• Participate in meetings, presentations and stakeholder engagement activities to communicate recommendations.

Required profile

• Law degree from a recognised institution and eligibility to practice, or extensive legal/policy experience.
• Strong knowledge of Samoan legal, cultural and institutional contexts; familiarity with Samoan language and customs is advantageous.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines and maintain high professional and ethical standards.

Required skills

• Expertise in Contract Law and Business Law.
• Experience in legal consulting and statutory interpretation.
• Proficiency in preparing legislation, policy papers, legal opinions and consultation documents.
• Advanced research, analytical and critical‑thinking abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication for diverse stakeholder groups.