Legal Executive Officer

About the role

The Legal Executive Officer (LEXO) provides day‑to‑day management of the Office of Legal Affairs (OLA) at SHAPE, supporting the ACO Legal Advisor and ensuring the division operates efficiently. This position coordinates legal work programmes, oversees administrative processes, and acts as a liaison between the legal office, the Command Group, and other NATO entities.

Key responsibilities

• Execute everyday management of the legal division and coordinate the work programme on behalf of the ACO Legal Advisor.
• Take action on tasking and assignments, coordinating with OLA branch heads and other elements as required.
• Manage day‑to‑day operations, optimise administrative processes, and ensure timely, accurate deliverables.
• Prepare briefing materials, conduct research, and draft documents for meetings.
• Facilitate communication between the legal office, the Command Group, and other NATO departments.
• Represent the ACO Legal Advisor in boards, meetings, or committees.
• Review outgoing correspondence for quality and compliance with directives and policies.
• Supervise the Divisional Security Officer and Fund Manager as needed.
• Oversee computer, information systems, and records‑management contractors to ensure performance and compliance.
• Ensure proper archiving, classification, secure storage, and retrieval of records in line with policies and retention standards.

Required profile

• Proven experience in managing legal or administrative divisions.
• Ability to coordinate with senior legal advisors and multiple internal stakeholders.
• Strong organisational and communication skills to represent the legal office in high‑level meetings.
• Knowledge of record‑keeping, security, and compliance requirements.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to work within a strategic NATO headquarters.
• Exposure to high‑impact legal matters supporting multinational defence operations.