REF: KNCHR/ADM/ DRAO/01/05/2026
Reports directly to the Commission Secretary, who also serves as the Chief Executive Officer, ensuring alignment with executive leadership and strategic objectives.
The supervisory team includes the Deputy Directors overseeing the Reforms and Accountability Division, the Research and Compliance Division, the Public Education and Training Division, and the Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Division.
The role oversees several divisions through indirect reports, including the Assistant Director of the Reforms and Accountability Division, the Assistant Director of the Research and Compliance Division, the Assistant Director of the Public Education and Training Division, and the Assistant Director of the Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights Division.
A five-year contract, renewable upon mutual agreement, is available for the position.
Relocated to Nairobi on a permanent basis, with periodic travel requirements to other locations.
Gross remuneration is set at KSS. 406,750 per annum.
Other Benefits: Comprehensive medical coverage, group life insurance, and Work Injury Benefits Act (FIBA) coverage are provided.
Job Purpose
This role entails providing strategic leadership and comprehensive oversight for the creation, execution, and assessment of policies, procedures, plans, strategies, standards, and guidelines. These initiatives pertain to research, advocacy, and outreach functions, ensuring the full realization of the Commission’s mandate.
Oversee and execute a comprehensive range of critical tasks and responsibilities that drive operational excellence and contribute to the organization’s strategic objectives. Serve as a pivotal point of accountability, ensuring all assigned duties are performed with precision, adherence to established policies, and alignment with industry best practices. Actively engage in cross-functional collaboration to facilitate seamless workflows, resolve challenges proactively, and support continuous improvement initiatives. Maintain meticulous attention to detail while managing multiple priorities, deadlines, and stakeholder expectations to deliver consistent, high-quality outcomes. Demonstrate adaptability and problem-solving skills in dynamic environments, fostering innovation and efficiency across all facets of the role.
Oversee and coordinate the daily operations of a team or department, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to organizational standards. Responsible for assigning tasks, monitoring performance, and providing guidance to foster professional growth and productivity among team members. Develop and implement strategies to optimize processes, enhance team effectiveness, and achieve departmental objectives. Serve as a primary point of contact for staff, addressing concerns, resolving conflicts, and promoting a positive work environment. Collaborate with senior leadership to align team goals with broader company initiatives and drive continuous improvement.
Provide visionary leadership and strategic oversight across all facets of research, advocacy, and outreach initiatives at the Commission, ensuring cohesive alignment and impactful execution.
Oversee and manage the execution of all programs within the directorate to guarantee alignment with the Commission’s strategic objectives and mandate.
Offer strategic direction and oversee the development and execution of policies and strategies within the directorate’s programs, ensuring the Commission’s functions are fulfilled effectively.
Direct and supervise the compilation of statutory reports, periodic human rights assessments, and supplementary submissions for submission to national parliamentary bodies as well as regional and international human rights frameworks.
The incumbent will oversee the preparation and submission of all Commission reports, advisories, memorandums, communiqués, research tools, donor reports, curricula, and educational materials to national, regional, and international stakeholders regarding critical human rights matters.
Oversee the execution and monitoring of actions taken to implement the recommendations and guidance provided in the Commission’s reports and advisories.
Responsible for directing, assessing, and continuously improving the directorate’s operational processes and overall performance.
Manage the allocation of resources across the Directorate’s thematic areas while leading the development and preparation of its budget to optimize the use of all available assets.
The Commission requires strategic coordination and distribution of tasks to division heads, ensuring efficient allocation of human and financial resources.
Coordinate staff performance and enhance team capabilities through targeted mentoring, coaching, and structured appraisals, while fostering ongoing professional growth and development initiatives within the Directorate.
Direct the comprehensive planning, design, and execution of the directorate’s quality control framework, ensuring adherence to the Commission’s established performance targets.
Spearhead the Commission’s involvement in essential task forces, statutory, and ad hoc Boards and Committees, addressing emerging human rights issues pertinent to the Directorate’s operational scope.
Provide strategic leadership to enhance collaboration, foster clear communication, and align the operations, interventions, and strategies across all divisions within the directorate, ensuring the Commission’s mandate is delivered effectively.
Oversee and execute daily operational duties to ensure seamless workflow and adherence to established protocols. Implement and maintain efficient processes to enhance productivity and minimize inefficiencies across all operational functions. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align objectives and streamline communication channels. Monitor performance metrics to identify trends, address discrepancies, and implement corrective actions as needed. Ensure compliance with organizational policies, industry regulations, and quality standards at all times. Develop and refine operational strategies to support long-term business goals and adapt to evolving operational demands. Provide guidance and training to team members to foster skill development and operational excellence.
Conceptualize, oversee, and execute the strategic planning, design, and deployment of the directorate’s initiatives to ensure alignment with organizational objectives.
Assist in implementing the Commission’s strategic plan and mandate through consistent, high-quality performance of duties.
Review and harmonize the directorate’s work plans and reports to verify their alignment with strategic objectives and organizational standards. Ensure consistency, accuracy, and compliance across all documentation while maintaining a cohesive narrative that reflects the directorate’s priorities and achievements.
To align with the established performance targets set forth by the Directorate.
Oversee the efficient completion and punctual submission of quarterly and annual reporting requirements across all divisions within the directorate.
The incumbent will oversee the development and execution of divisional reports, advisories, memorandums, communiqués, research tools, donor reports, curriculums, and educational materials for the directorate, ensuring alignment with the Commission’s established standards and mandate.
Formulate innovative concepts and strategic plans to mobilize resources and optimize the operational framework of the directorate.
Provide counsel to the Commission Secretary and Commissioners regarding all aspects of research, advocacy, and outreach initiatives within the Commission.
The Commission’s representative will engage in high-level meetings at national, regional, and international levels to promote its key findings, advisories, recommendations, and positions on critical human rights themes.
Develop and cultivate strategic relationships with key stakeholders to advance research advocacy and outreach initiatives.
Oversee, validate, and track the allocation and expenditure of the directorate’s financial resources to ensure alignment with established budgets.
Job Dimensions:
We are seeking a candidate who demonstrates strong accountability in managing financial resources. The ideal individual will ensure accurate budgeting, meticulous tracking of expenditures, and adherence to financial regulations. Proficiency in financial reporting and analysis is essential, along with the ability to provide strategic recommendations to optimize physical performance. Ideal candidates will possess relevant experience in financial oversight, a keen attention to detail, and the capacity to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
Oversee the stewardship of all financial resources and budgets within the directorate, ensuring their prudent and strategic allocation in alignment with the Commission’s established mandate.
Oversees the strategic direction and operational management of the directorate’s personnel and fiscal assets, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and compliance with established policies and procedures.
The position oversees the administration of all grants under the Directorate of Research, Advocacy, and Outreach.
The incumbent provides financial updates and pertinent recommendations to the Commission Secretary regarding the directorate’s fiscal condition, ensuring resources are utilized prudently and efficiently.
Oversee the management and maintenance of physical assets to ensure optimal performance, longevity, and compliance with operational standards. This role entails regular inspections, preventive maintenance scheduling, and timely repairs to mitigate risks and minimize downtime. Additionally, the position requires meticulous record-keeping of asset conditions, expenditures, and lifecycle tracking to support strategic decision-making and regulatory adherence. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail are essential for maintaining accurate documentation and coordinating with cross-functional teams to align asset management with business objectives.
The department oversees a wide array of essential office and technical equipment, including printers, laptops, tablets, phones, desktops, workstations, filing cabinets, coat hangers, and fans, among other items.
Strategically shaping key decisions, this role significantly influences organizational outcomes through thoughtful analysis and decisive action. The position demands the ability to assess complex scenarios, evaluate risks, and align choices with overarching business objectives to drive sustainable growth and innovation.
Provides strategic leadership and endorses the establishment of priorities, frameworks, design choices, critical policies, and the execution of all research, advocacy, and outreach initiatives and programs within the Commission.
Provides guidance and counsel to the Commission on all aspects related to Research, Advocacy, and Outreach matters.
Craft critical decisions with strategic precision to drive mission-critical outcomes, ensuring operational efficiency and effectiveness through informed, timely, and decisive actions. Analyze complex scenarios, evaluate risks, and prioritize objectives while adhering to organizational policies and resource constraints. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align tactical initiatives with broader strategic goals, maintaining agility in dynamic environments. Requires a minimum of five years in a relevant leadership or operational role, along with expertise in risk assessment, resource allocation, and stakeholder management. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential, along with the ability to thrive under pressure and adapt to evolving circumstances.
Responsible for overseeing all operational activities within the directorate, which encompasses delegating responsibilities, addressing issues promptly, managing crises, and resolving disputes to maintain uninterrupted fulfillment of the Commission’s objectives.
The incumbent provides guidance to the Commission regarding the State’s adherence to human rights principles and standards, while offering essential recommendations on necessary actions for the Commission to consider.
Weigh decisions with a keen analytical mindset, meticulously evaluating data and insights to drive informed choices. Leverage critical thinking to dissect complex problems, identify underlying patterns, and assess potential outcomes with precision. Apply logical reasoning to navigate challenges, ensuring decisions align with organizational goals and strategic objectives. Utilize analytical tools and methodologies to enhance decision-making efficiency and accuracy.
Evaluates the outcomes of the directorate’s initiatives and formulates actionable recommendations for the Commission.
The role involves making strategic operational decisions that align with organizational goals, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in day-to-day processes. Key responsibilities include analyzing data, evaluating risks, and implementing solutions to optimize workflows and resource allocation. Candidates must demonstrate strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and proficiency in decision-making frameworks. Experience in a similar operational or managerial capacity is required, along with the capacity to lead cross-functional teams and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
Responsible for endorsing both internal and external communications within the directorate. Oversees the execution of Human Resources strategies to ensure alignment with organizational objectives.
Oversees the operational effectiveness and strategic execution of divisional leaders within the Financial Decisions unit, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and performance standards.
Supervises and oversees the administration of all resources—financial and personnel—within the directorate to guarantee the effective execution of the Commission’s mandate.
Working Conditions
The position is headquartered in Nairobi, with regular national field travel and participation in high-level regional and international meetings.
The role requires extensive working hours and frequent field travel to remote and challenging locations, including detention facilities, security operation zones, conflict-prone regions, and culturally diverse settings. Additional responsibilities involve monitoring hospitals, prisons, schools, and security operation areas.
Job Requirements (Expertise, Background, and Competencies / Technical Skills) involve a blend of specialized knowledge, hands-on experience, and key personnel attributes. Candidates must possess a deep understanding of industry-specific principles, coupled with a proven track record in relevant roles. Essential capabilities include strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and the ability to collaborate across teams. Familiarity with key tools, methodologies, and best practices is also required to execute responsibilities efficiently. Additionally, a commitment to continuous learning and adaptability to evolving challenges is expected.
Applicants must possess a relevant academic qualification, such as a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, and ideally hold an advanced degree or professional certification. Prior to work experience in a comparable role is strongly preferred, with a minimum of three years in a relevant industry. Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential, along with proficiency in industry-specific software and tools. The ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet tight deadlines is required. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
A Master’s degree in Law, Social Sciences, Peace Building/Conflict Management, Criminology, Political Science/Government, Anthropology, Sociology, Development Studies, International Relations and Diplomacy, or any related field from an accredited institution is required.
A doctoral degree is considered a valuable asset.
Holding current memberships in recognized professional organizations relevant to the field is essential. Additionally, applicants must possess formal qualifications demonstrating expertise and adherence to industry standards.
A postgraduate degree in Strategic and Project Management, Planning, Proposal Writing/Administration, Governance, or Human Rights is required.
Membership in a pertinent professional organization is essential, requiring a minimum of three years of hands-on experience in a closely related field. Candidates must demonstrate expertise through relevant certifications and maintain an active affiliation with the designated professional body throughout their tenure. Responsibilities include fostering collaboration with industry peers, staying abreast of emerging trends, and ensuring adherence to ethical standards and best practices in the field.
A recognized institution must award a certificate in strategic leadership or management, with the program spanning a minimum duration of six weeks.
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and Project Cycle Management training are required for this position.
A minimum of relevant work experience in the field is mandatory for consideration.
Held the position of Deputy Director for at least three consecutive years.
With over a decade of professional experience, including a minimum of five years in a leadership or supervisory capacity, the ideal candidate will bring a wealth of practical knowledge and proven expertise to the role. This background ensures the ability to guide teams effectively while maintaining high operational standards.
Proficiency in international, regional, and national human rights frameworks, as evidenced by prior experience or academic study, is required. A comprehensive understanding of relevant legal instruments and their applications is essential for this role.
Accomplished in designing and spearheading research initiatives from inception to completion, with a proven track record of guiding cross-functional teams through strategic planning, execution, and delivery. Demonstrates expertise in framing research questions, outlining methodologies, and ensuring alignment with organizational objectives. Strong ability to foster collaboration, allocate resources efficiently, and drive projects to achieve measurable outcomes.
Proven track record in designing and spearheading advocacy and outreach initiatives.
Functional Expertise and Core Competencies/Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate mastery of essential job-related skills, while also exhibiting key behavioral traits and personal attributes that drive success in the role.
Proficient in functional skills, including the ability to analyze processes, identify inefficiencies, and implement improvements to enhance operational performance. Demonstrates expertise in evaluating workflows, troubleshooting issues, and optimizing systems for increased productivity and cost-effectiveness. Proficient in utilizing data-driven methodologies to assess functional areas and develop strategic solutions that align with organizational objectives. Experience in collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of functional enhancements and adherence to best practices.
Demonstrated skill in assembling and guiding high-performing, collaborative teams is essential.
Proficiency in designing and implementing research, advocacy, and outreach initiatives is required.
Strategically minded leaders who can clearly demonstrate their ability to guide teams and organizations toward long-term goals are encouraged to apply. Successful candidates will exhibit a proven track record of making high-impact decisions that align with broader business objectives, inspiring teams to achieve ambitious targets through clear vision and decisive action.
Critical thinking and analysis skills are essential for evaluating complex information, identifying key issues, and developing well-reasoned solutions. These competencies enable professionals to assess situations objectively, recognize patterns, and make informed decisions that align with organizational objectives. Strong analytical abilities also enhance problem-solving by breaking down intricate challenges into manageable components, ensuring clarity and precision in execution.
Demonstrates exceptional aptitude for resolving complex issues and effectively managing high-pressure situations.
The development and implementation of strategic plans are essential responsibilities.
Financial management and budgeting encompass the strategic planning, monitoring, and control of an organization’s financial resources to ensure fiscal responsibility, sustainability, and alignment with strategic objectives. This role involves analyzing financial data, preparing detailed budgets, forecasting future performance, and implementing cost-saving measures to optimize resource allocation. Responsibilities include tracking expenditures, identifying variances, and providing actionable insights to senior leadership to support informed decision-making. Additionally, the position requires strong analytical skills, proficiency in financial software, and the ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to stakeholders at all levels. A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related field is typically required, along with relevant certifications such as CPA or CFA preferred.
Familiarity with the project management lifecycle and public administration frameworks is essential.
Skilled in IT with practical proficiency across diverse software applications, the ideal candidate will demonstrate strong behavioral competencies and key attributes essential for success in this role.
Outstanding organizational abilities and strong problem-solving capabilities are required for this role. The ideal candidate must demonstrate proficiency in managing multiple tasks efficiently and identifying effective solutions to complex challenges.
You possess strong written and verbal communication skills, enabling you to convey ideas effectively and engage with stakeholders at all levels. Your ability to articulate messages clearly and confidently ensures seamless collaboration and understanding across diverse teams and audiences.
Possesses strong abilities to effectively communicate, collaborate, and build relationships with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders. Demonstrates proficiency in active listening, empathy, and conflict resolution to foster a positive and productive work environment. Required to interact with diverse teams and adapt communication styles to suit various situations and audiences.
We value strong capabilities in Alternative Dispute Resolution, ensuring efficient conflict management and negotiation. Candidates should bring expertise in facilitating discussions to resolve disagreements constructively, with a focus on collaboration and problem-solving. Proficiency in mediation techniques, arbitration processes, and conflict de-escalation strategies is essential. The role requires the ability to navigate complex interpersonal dynamics while maintaining neutrality and fostering productive outcomes. Experience in formal dispute resolution settings, such as mediation or arbitration hearings, is highly desirable.
Fulfill all stipulations outlined in Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya.
To submit your application, follow the provided method of application.
Qualifications
MBA/MSc/MA , PhD/Fellowship
Experience Required
3 years
