Alternative Dispute Resolution Centre Administrator at The Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators (NICArb)

RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Manage the day-to-day running of the NICArb ADR Centre 
• Responsible for marketing and creating awareness of the Centre for increased patronage in the use of the centre facility by third parties and the number of cases resolved through the arbitration and ADR Centre 
• Develop, implement, and refine ADR policies and procedures to streamline conflict resolution processes. 
• Collect and analyse ADR related data in-house, nationally and on the African continent to enable the Institute to speak authoritatively on ADR related subject matter backed with relevant statistics. 
• Represent the organisation in meetings with external stakeholders, including legal entities, to advocate for our ADR initiatives. 
• Stay abreast of industry trends and regulatory changes in dispute resolution, ensuring our practices remain compliant and effective. 
• Provide consultation and guidance to leadership on conflict resolution strategies and processes 
• Case Administration and Management - Administer and oversee cases referred for arbitration, mediation, and other ADR processes, ensuring compliance with established protocols and timelines. - Coordinate and manage pre-hearing, hearing, and post-hearing activities, including scheduling sessions, preparing case files, and communicating with parties. - Maintain accurate and confidential records of all case proceedings and documentation. 
• Legal Research and Advisory - Conduct legal research to support case management, arbitrators, and mediators, providing insights into relevant laws, regulations, and case precedents. - Prepare legal opinions, reports, and memoranda on complex legal and procedural issues, advising ADR practitioners and internal teams as needed. 
• Draft, and Review arbitration/ADR Related Documents - Draft, review, and edit case-related documents, including terms of reference, procedural orders, notices, awards, and settlement agreements to ensure clarity, legality, and adherence to institutional standards. - Assist in the development and update of ADR templates, guidelines, and protocols to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of ADR processes. 
• Stakeholder Engagement and Communication - Serve as a primary point of contact for parties, counsel, and arbitrators, providing timely information and assistance throughout the ADR process. - Facilitate effective communication between parties and neutrals, ensuring that each participant is informed of case developments and procedural requirements. 
• Dispute Resolution Support - Assist arbitrators and mediators in hearings by preparing case summaries, managing exhibits, and providing general logistical support. - Facilitate the settlement process by coordinating with parties and counsel, scheduling meetings, and documenting agreements reached. 

REQUIRED AND PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS 

Required: 

• Master's degree in law, conflict resolution, or a related field. 
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in arbitration, mediation, and alternative dispute resolution. 
• Proven track record of developing and implementing successful ADR programmes in a corporate or organisational setting. 
• Strong knowledge of relevant laws and regulations governing arbitration and ADR processes. 
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills. 
• Certification in arbitration, mediation or conflict resolution from a recognised body. 

Preferred Qualification 

• Experience in managing complex disputes involving multiple stakeholders. 
• Demonstrated ability to analyse and interpret data to drive decision-making. 
• Proficient in case management software and dispute resolution systems. 
• Strong understanding of legal frameworks surrounding ADR practices. 
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a collaborative mindset. 
• Strong problem-solving abilities and a strategic approach to conflict resolution. 
• Commitment to continuous learning and professional development in the field of ADR. 
• Ability to work effectively under pressure, manage deadlines, and maintain confidentiality. 
• Familiarity with ADR software and case management tools is an advantage.