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 directives and organizational objectives. This role maintains a close working relationship with senior management to execute strategic initiatives and uphold governance standards.
The position oversees several key divisions, including the Deputy Director of the Reforms and Accountability Division, Deputy Director of the Research and Compliance Division, Deputy Director of the Public Education and Training Division, and Deputy Director of the Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights Division.
The position oversees multiple teams, including the Assistant Directors of the Reforms and Accountability Division, Research and Compliance Division, Public Education and Training Division, and Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Division.
A five-year contract, with the possibility of renewal, is available for this position.
Duty station is based in Nairobi, with periodic travel requirements.
A gross salary of KSS. 406,750 per annum is offered for this position.
Other benefits include comprehensive medical coverage, a group life insurance plan, and Work Injury Benefits Act (FIBA) provisions.
Job Purpose
This role entails offering strategic direction and management in the creation, execution, and assessment of policies, procedures, plans, strategies, standards, and guidelines related to research, advocacy, and outreach functions, with the purpose of successfully fulfilling the Commission’s mandate.
Responsibilities encompass a range of critical tasks integral to the role, including strategic planning, project execution, and stakeholder coordination. The position demands adherence to established policies and procedures while fostering collaboration across departments to achieve organizational objectives. Additionally, the role requires meticulous attention to detail in data analysis, reporting, and compliance with regulatory standards.
Overseeing a team of professionals and ensuring the efficient execution of daily operations are key responsibilities of this role. This position involves guiding, mentoring, and evaluating staff performance to foster a productive and collaborative work environment. Additionally, the individual will be responsible for delegating tasks, monitoring progress, and resolving any operational challenges that may arise. Strong leadership, clear communication, and the ability to motivate teams are essential for success in this managerial capacity.
Provide visionary direction and cohesive leadership across all research initiatives, advocacy efforts, and outreach programs within the Commission.
Oversee and manage the execution of all directorate programs to guarantee the attainment of the Commission’s strategic objectives and mandate.
Offer strategic direction and oversee the development and execution of policies and strategies for directorate programs, ensuring the Commission fulfills its functions with maximum efficiency.
Direct and supervise the compilation of statutory reports, periodic human rights submissions, and alternative reports, ensuring their presentation to national parliamentary bodies as well as regional and international human rights institutions.
The incumbent will oversee the preparation, compilation, and submission of all Commission reports, advisories, memorandums, communiqués, research tools, donor reports, curricula, and educational materials to domestic, regional, and international stakeholders regarding critical human rights matters.
Oversee the execution and follow-through of the Commission’s recommendations as outlined in its reports and advisories.
Responsible for directing, supervising, and assessing the directorate’s operational processes and overall performance.
Responsible for coordinating the allocation of resources across the Directorate’s key thematic focus areas and providing oversight to the budget development and formulation process, ensuring optimal and efficient use of available resources.
Organize and distribute responsibilities to division heads to maximize the efficient use of both human and financial resources within the Commission.
Oversee staff performance management and enhance team capabilities by providing mentorship, coaching, and conducting regular appraisals, while fostering professional growth and development initiatives within the Directorate.
Direct the planning, design, and execution of the directorate’s quality control framework, ensuring adherence to the Commission’s established performance targets.
Coordinate and oversee the Commission’s involvement in critical task forces, statutory boards, and ad hoc committees addressing evolving human rights challenges pertinent to the Directorate’s operational scope.
Demonstrate leadership in cultivating collaboration, open communication, and cohesive alignment across all divisions within the directorate, ensuring the seamless integration of operations, interventions, and strategic initiatives to fulfill the Commission’s mandate with excellence.
Oversee and manage daily operational tasks to ensure seamless business functionality, including process optimization, resource allocation, and performance monitoring. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement efficient workflows, maintain compliance with established policies, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. Identify operational bottlenecks and propose data-driven solutions to enhance productivity and reduce inefficiencies. Provide leadership in coordinating departmental activities, fostering a culture of accountability, and aligning operational goals with broader organizational objectives. Additionally, track key performance indicators, generate reports, and present insights to senior management to support strategic decision-making.
Conceptualize, oversee, and lead the strategic planning, design, and execution of the directorate’s initiatives to ensure alignment with organizational objectives and operational excellence.
Implement strategic directives and operational objectives aligned with the Commission’s established plan and mandate.
Review, synthesize, and finalize all work plans and reports produced by the directorate to verify accuracy, consistency, and alignment with organizational objectives. Ensure documentation is clear, concise, and professionally presented to support strategic decision-making and accountability. Maintain meticulous attention to detail while adhering to established guidelines and timelines.
In alignment with the established performance objectives for the Directorate, the incumbent will be responsible for delivering results that meet or exceed predefined benchmarks. This role requires a consistent commitment to achieving the outlined goals while adhering to organizational standards and expectations. The successful candidate must demonstrate the ability to contribute effectively toward the Directorate’s strategic priorities and operational targets. Collaboration with stakeholders and adherence to established guidelines will be essential to fulfilling these performance expectations.
Prepare and submit quarterly and annual reports for the divisions within the directorate in a timely manner.
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 full compliance with the Commission’s established standards and mandate.
Formulate innovative concepts and strategic frameworks to drive resource mobilization and operational efficiency within the directorate.
Provide strategic guidance to the Commission Secretary and Commissioners on all aspects of research, advocacy, and outreach initiatives within the Commission.
As a representative of the Commission, engage in high-level national, regional, and international meetings to effectively advocate for the Commission’s findings, advisories, recommendations, and official positions on critical human rights themes.
Develop, cultivate, and sustain strategic networks and partnerships with key stakeholders to advance research advocacy and outreach initiatives.
Authorize, coordinate and monitor budget utilization of the directorate’s resources.
Job Dimensions:
The role demands meticulous management of financial resources, ensuring accurate recording, analysis, and reporting of all transactions in compliance with established accounting standards. Applicants must possess a strong numerical aptitude, proficiency in financial software, and at least three years of relevant experience in bookkeeping or accounting. Key responsibilities include reconciling accounts, preparing financial statements, monitoring budget adherence, and providing strategic insights to support informed decision-making. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and adherence to strict confidentiality protocols are essential for success in this position.
Overseeing the allocation and prudent management of the directorate’s financial resources and budgets, this role ensures alignment with the Commission’s mandate and strategic objectives. By meticulously monitoring expenditures and optimizing resource distribution, the incumbent guarantees efficient utilization of funds while maintaining compliance with established financial guidelines and regulatory requirements.
Offers comprehensive leadership in the administration of the directorate’s personnel and fiscal assets.
Oversees the administration of all grants across the Directorate of Research, Advocacy, and Outreach.
The incumbent provides the Commission Secretary with updates on the directorate’s financial standing and proposes strategic recommendations to promote responsible and efficient resource utilization.
Oversee the management, maintenance, and upkeep of physical assets to ensure optimal performance, longevity, and compliance with regulatory standards. This role involves implementing preventive maintenance schedules, conducting routine inspections, and promptly addressing any asset-related issues to minimize downtime and operational disruptions. Additionally, the position requires coordination with cross-functional teams to develop and enforce asset management policies, as well as tracking asset performance through data analysis to identify trends, inefficiencies, or opportunities for improvement. Strong organizational and technical skills are essential to maintain accurate records, optimize resource allocation, and uphold safety protocols while adhering to budgetary constraints.
The role involves the management and maintenance of office equipment, including printers, laptops, tablets, phones, desktops, workstations, filing cabinets, coat hangers, and fans.
Strategic input is a core responsibility, shaping key organizational choices that influence company direction and outcomes. The role demands the ability to assess complex scenarios, evaluate risks, and make data-driven recommendations that align with long-term business objectives. Decisions made will impact team performance, resource allocation, and overall operational efficiency, requiring a balance of analytical rigor and forward-thinking judgment.
Provides high-level strategic guidance and endorses key decisions regarding priorities, design, frameworks, major policies, and the execution of all research, advocacy, and outreach initiatives and programs within the Commission.
Provides counsel and strategic guidance to the Commission on all aspects related to Research, Advocacy, and Outreach initiatives.
Responsible for making informed, strategic choices under pressure, this role involves assessing complex situations, evaluating potential outcomes, and selecting the most effective course of action to achieve mission-critical objectives. Requires strong analytical skills, the ability to think critically, and decisive judgment in high-stakes environments. Candidates must demonstrate adaptability, problem-solving capabilities, and a disciplined approach to decision-making. Experience in high-pressure scenarios, leadership roles, or emergency response is highly valued. Proficiency in risk assessment and contingency planning is essential, along with clear communication to convey decisions and rationale to stakeholders.
Responsible for overseeing all operational functions of the directorate, this role involves delegating tasks, addressing challenges promptly, managing crises, and resolving conflicts to uphold the seamless execution of the Commission’s mandate.
The incumbent provides expert counsel to the Commission regarding the State’s adherence to human rights principles and standards, offering strategic recommendations for the Commission’s consideration and action.
Analytical Decisions play a pivotal role in driving informed choices by leveraging data and critical reasoning. This position demands strong problem-solving abilities, meticulous attention to detail, and the capacity to interpret complex information with precision. Key responsibilities include conducting thorough research, evaluating multiple scenarios, and synthesizing insights to guide strategic initiatives. Ideal candidates possess robust analytical skills, proficiency in relevant tools or methodologies, and the ability to communicate findings effectively to stakeholders at all levels. Experience in data analysis, logical reasoning, or related fields is highly valued, as is the aptitude to adapt to dynamic challenges while maintaining a structured approach to decision-making.
Evaluates and examines the outcomes of the directorate’s initiatives, subsequently providing strategic recommendations to the Commission to enhance program effectiveness and alignment with organizational objectives.
Responsible for evaluating daily activities and performance metrics to drive strategic operational enhancements and ensure alignment with company objectives, operational decisions play a critical role in shaping business processes. Requires a bachelor’s degree in business administration, operations management, or a related discipline, supplemented by at least three years of experience in operational roles, preferably within a fast-paced environment. Strong analytical skills are essential for assessing data trends, while excellent communication abilities facilitate collaboration with cross-functional teams to implement process improvements. Familiarity with industry-specific software and tools is preferred to optimize decision-making efficiency.
Approves all internal and external communications for the directorate. Implements human resource strategies to ensure alignment with organizational goals.
Oversees the operational effectiveness of divisional Financial Decisions leaders.
Oversees and guides the strategic allocation and utilization of the directorate’s financial and human resources to uphold the effective execution of the Commission’s mandate.
Working Conditions
The position is situated at the Nairobi Headquarters, requiring regular domestic travel to field locations as well as participation in high-level regional and international meetings.
The role requires to be extended working hours and frequent travel to remote, hard-to-reach locations, including detention facilities, security operation zones, and conflict-prone regions, as well as exposure to diverse multicultural environments. Responsibilities include monitoring hospitals, prisons, schools, and security operation areas.
Demonstrates proficiency in essential job competencies, including required knowledge, relevant experience, and key attributes or skills.
Holds a relevant academic qualification, such as a Bachelor’s degree or higher, in a field pertinent to the role, with a preference for candidates whose studies align closely with the position’s requirements. Demonstrates a solid academic foundation through credible credentials, ensuring the individual possesses the theoretical knowledge essential for success in the role. Prior academic achievements should reflect a commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
A master’s degree in fields such as Law, Social Sciences, Peace Building/Conflict Management, Criminology, Political Science/Government, Anthropology, Sociology, Development Studies, International Relations and Diplomacy, or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institution is required.
A PhD qualification is considered a favorable factor.
Membership in recognized professional organizations or adherence to industry-specific standards is a key qualification for this role. Candidates should demonstrate active engagement with relevant professional bodies to ensure alignment with current best practices and ongoing professional development.
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 required.
Strategic leadership or management certification must be obtained from a reputable institution, with a program duration of at least six weeks.
Professional development opportunities include comprehensive training in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) methodologies as well as Project Cycle Management frameworks.
Previous employment in a related field is essential.
Held the position of Deputy Director for a minimum of three years.
With twelve years of professional experience, including over five years in a supervisory capacity, the ideal candidate will bring a wealth of practical knowledge and leadership expertise to the role.
Possesses comprehensive understanding and practical experience with international, regional, and national human rights frameworks and instruments.
Accomplished in designing and spearheading research initiatives from inception to completion.
Demonstrated expertise in designing and executing advocacy and outreach initiatives, along with a proven track record of steering such projects to successful completion.
Functional Proficiency, Core Behavioral Competencies & Personal Attributes:
Functional Skills are essential competencies that enable individuals to effectively perform tasks and responsibilities within a professional setting. These skills encompass practical abilities such as problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and organizational proficiency, which are critical for navigating workplace challenges and contributing to overall productivity. Employers often prioritize candidates who demonstrate strong functional skills, as they directly impact job performance and operational efficiency. Mastery of these skills ensures adaptability, collaboration, and the capacity to meet organizational goals.
Skilled in assembling and guiding high-performing teams to achieve collective success through collaboration and shared objectives.
Experienced in designing, implementing, and managing research initiatives, advocacy campaigns, and community outreach programs with measurable outcomes.
Proven ability to provide clear, forward-thinking leadership and drive organizational strategy forward effectively is required.
Proficiency in critical thinking and analytical capabilities is essential for evaluating complex information, identifying key issues, and developing well-reasoned solutions.
Effectively navigates challenges and resolves issues under pressure with a structured approach. Demonstrates strong capabilities in handling unexpected situations and mitigating risks. Proactively identifies solutions while maintaining composure in high-stakes environments.
Proactive development and implementation of strategic initiatives are essential, requiring a keen ability to analyze complex situations and translate insights into actionable plans. The role demands a forward-thinking approach to align organizational goals with operational execution, ensuring decisions are both innovative and grounded in measurable outcomes. Strong analytical skills and adaptability are crucial to navigate evolving challenges while maintaining a clear vision for long-term success.
Financial management and budgeting encompass the strategic planning, oversight, and allocation of financial resources to ensure organizational sustainability and growth. This involves developing comprehensive budgets, monitoring expenditures, analyzing financial performance, and identifying variances to maintain fiscal responsibility. Proficiency in financial software, adherence to accounting principles, and strong analytical skills are essential for evaluating data, forecasting trends, and making informed decisions. Additionally, effective communication is required to present financial insights to stakeholders and align financial strategies with broader organizational objectives.
Proficiency in the project management lifecycle and public administration is essential.
Accomplished IT proficiencies encompassing practical expertise in a range of software applications, supported by robust behavioral competencies and essential attributes.
Excellent organizational abilities and strong problem-solving capabilities are essential for this role. Candidates must demonstrate a keen aptitude for managing tasks efficiently and addressing challenges with effective, strategic solutions.
Excellent communication (written and oral)
Proficient in cultivating and maintaining constructive relationships with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders through active listening, empathy, and clear communication, ensuring seamless collaboration in all professional interactions. Adept at resolving conflicts diplomatically and fostering a positive team dynamic to enhance productivity and mutual respect. Demonstrated ability to adapt communication styles to diverse personalities and cultural backgrounds, facilitating inclusivity and understanding in a fast-paced, collaborative work environment.
Alternative Dispute Resolution skills encompass expertise in negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and other conflict resolution techniques designed to facilitate mutually acceptable outcomes without resorting to litigation. Professionals with these skills analyze complex disputes, identify underlying interests of involved parties, and develop strategies to bridge gaps between conflicting perspectives. Strong communication, active listening, and emotional intelligence are essential to guide parties toward collaborative solutions while maintaining neutrality and impartiality. These abilities are particularly valuable in legal, corporate, and community settings, where efficient resolution of conflicts minimizes costs, preserves relationships, and fosters sustainable agreements. Familiarity with applicable laws, ethical standards, and cultural sensitivities further enhances the effectiveness of dispute resolution practitioners.
Ensure compliance with the provisions outlined in Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya.
Applicants are required to follow the outlined method of application as specified in the job posting to ensure their submission is considered. Ensure all required documentation is included with the application to avoid any delays in the review process. Follow any additional instructions provided by the employer regarding the submission format or required materials. Adherence to the application method is essential for a successful submission.
Qualifications
MBA/MSc/MA , PhD/Fellowship
Experience Required
3 years
