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Home Jobs Nairobi Corporate Legal and Governance Director

Corporate Legal and Governance Director

Kenya Bureau of Standards  · Government

Full Time Nairobi
Nairobi
Deadline: 20 August 2026
Posted May 22, 2026

Job Purpose

Offers strategic leadership in delivering legal services, providing expert guidance on corporate governance, and ensuring the secure management of legal documents while supporting management on legal matters to uphold compliance with applicable laws and regulations, safeguarding KEYS’ interests in alignment with the Standards Act (Cap 496) of Kenya’s legal framework. This role is pivotal in facilitating domestic, regional, and international trade, streamlining business operations, and promoting consumer health and safety, environmental protection, as mandated by Articles 42, 43(a, b, c & d), and 46(a, b & c) of the Constitution of Kenya, alongside the Standards Act (Cap 496 Laws of Kenya). Additionally, it contributes to fostering a culture of quality assurance essential for advancing Kenya’s Vision 2030, the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Kenya’s stance on legal matters pertaining to Standardization, Metrology, and Conformity Assessment (YMCA) is clearly communicated by the incumbent, who also leads negotiations on the nation’s behalf at both regional and international forums. This strategic role is pivotal in expanding market access for Kenyan products across global platforms.

Oversee and execute a range of critical duties, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and operational standards. Actively engage in tasks that drive efficiency, including process optimization, strategic planning, and cross-functional collaboration. Manage project timelines, allocate resources effectively, and monitor progress to meet established benchmarks. Address challenges proactively, implement solutions, and maintain adherence to compliance and quality assurance protocols. Foster a culture of accountability while supporting team development and continuous improvement initiatives.

Overseeing and guiding team members, delegating tasks, and ensuring efficient workflow processes fall under your purview as a manager or supervisor. You will be responsible for setting clear performance expectations, providing constructive feedback, and fostering a productive work environment. Additionally, you will manage daily operations, resolve conflicts, and support professional development initiatives to enhance team capabilities and achieve organizational objectives. Strong leadership, communication skills, and the ability to motivate others are essential for success in this role.

Demonstrates strategic leadership while overseeing the provision of legal services, ensuring the secure management of legal documents, and offering guidance on effective corporate governance. Responsible for administering legal instruments, managing litigation processes, and providing management with expert counsel on legal affairs to uphold adherence to all applicable laws and regulations.

Requirements include safeguarding KEYS interests to effectively implement its mandate in accordance with the Standards Act CAP 496, as outlined in Kenya’s legal framework.

Offers visionary leadership and holds responsibility for developing and executing KEYS Legal policies, strategies, and procedures.

The incumbent will offer strategic leadership in developing and interpreting the National Quality Infrastructure framework, focusing on Standardization, Metrology, and Conformity Assessment (YMCA). This role will empower the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEYS) to fulfill its mandate in trade facilitation, ensuring consumer health and safety, environmental protection, and the reduction of technical trade barriers. Additionally, the position will enhance the competitiveness of Kenyan products and services in the market.

Delivers strategic direction in evaluation and adapts to evolving operational conditions that influence pertinent legislation, legal policies, and regulatory frameworks, safeguarding KEYS’ interests and ensuring seamless integration within the broader government framework; all while promoting national, regional, and international trade facilitation.

Strategically leads the process of gazetteer for standards as mandated by the National Standards Council (NSC), including the preparation and issuance of legal notices for compulsory standards, while also serving as the gazetteer inspector.

Offers strategic direction in the formulation and official publication of statutory instruments governing KEYS operations.

Delivers high-level strategic direction in overseeing the administration of contracts, memoranda of understanding (Mouse), and collaborative legal instruments between KEYS and stakeholders at national, regional, and international levels to ensure seamless implementation.

Demonstrates strong leadership in managing litigation and arbitral proceedings involving KEYS, ensuring robust defense before courts, tribunals, or quasi-judicial bodies to protect organizational interests.

Delivers strategic direction in formulating and executing business continuity strategies focused on legal considerations to uphold the sustainability of KEYS operations.

Offers visionary strategic leadership to establish, implement, monitor, evaluate, and continuously enhance KEYS-adopted Management Systems, ensuring optimal efficiency, effectiveness, and enduring customer satisfaction.

Responsible for directing and ensuring the oversight of performance management and productivity enhancement initiatives within the directorate, this role maintains accountability for the directorate’s overall performance outcomes.

Ensures the thorough execution of the Risk Management Framework within the Directorate, safeguarding against adverse risk impacts while capitalizing on potential opportunities.

Responsibilities include ensuring the identification and allocation of essential human and physical resources within the directorate to support the successful execution and attainment of strategic goals.

Oversees the enhancement of staff competencies within the directorate by implementing formal training initiatives, mentorship programs, coaching sessions, and practical on-the-job learning experiences to ensure alignment with the directorate’s strategic objectives.

The role encompasses a range of operational duties and responsibilities, which include overseeing daily processes, ensuring adherence to established procedures, and maintaining efficient workflows. Key tasks involve coordinating between departments, monitoring performance metrics, and addressing any operational challenges that may arise. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment. Candidates must possess strong organizational skills, effective communication abilities, and prior experience in a similar operational capacity. Proficiency in relevant software and tools is also expected to support the execution of these responsibilities.

The incumbent is responsible for managing the creation and execution of work plans, budgets, Medium Expenditure Framework, and procurement plans within the Directorate and the National Standards Council.

Strategically oversees the drafting and management of legally consequential correspondence arising from KEYS operations conducted during official duties and guides staff on potential legal actions stemming from such activities.

Strategically leads the creation, upkeep, and enhancement of KEYS databases for all matters where KEYS holds an interest.

Delivers strategic direction to staff regarding the execution of legal clinics to enhance operational effectiveness.

Oversees legal guidance and advises the National Standards Council, Management and staff on legal instruments, contracts and corporate governance to ensure statutory and regulatory compliance;

Directs and organizes joint efforts with external partners and regulatory bodies to uphold adherence to statutory, regulatory mandates, and international agreements.

The incumbent is responsible for managing the compilation of KEYS and directorate board papers, ensuring their timely submission to the E-Board platform for review and approval by the NSC.

Supervises the induction of new board members and conducts training sessions, while also coordinating board evaluations to uphold strong corporate governance practices.

Provides leadership in monitoring the efficiency and effectiveness of the legal function’s service delivery to ensure, legal and regulatory compliance and that risks are identified and managed;

Provides leadership in litigation matters, advices on KEBS defense and provides guidance on alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to safeguard KEBS interests;

Overseeing the preparation and timely submission of responses to Parliamentary questions that pertain to the Legal mandate and operational activities of KEYS is a key responsibility of this role.

Responsible for directing the formulation and evaluation of the National Standards Council’s charter alongside other governance-related documents, ensuring alignment with organizational policies and regulatory standards.

instruments;

The National Standards Council’s resolutions are conveyed to directorates to facilitate their implementation, thereby promoting efficiency in the organization’s operations.

Delivers custodial care for KEYS legal instruments and the corporate seal, ensuring responsible oversight of their usage and safeguarding their integrity.

Oversees the establishment of objectives, evaluates and authorizes performance targets for the directorate, and maintains ongoing oversight of progress to ensure alignment with strategic goals.

The incumbent is tasked with preparing and submitting performance reports to the Managing Director as part of their implementation duties.

Offers strategic guidance in the execution of National Standards Council resolutions pertaining to legal affairs.

Evaluates and authorizes financial transactions within the directorate to ensure compliance with established budgets and regulations.

Responsible for delegating tasks and authorizing time off for direct reports.

Job Competencies encompass a blend of knowledge, experience, and key attributes or skills necessary for success in the role.

Applicants must hold a relevant academic degree, preferably with a minimum of a bachelor’s qualification in the field, to be considered for this role.

A Juries Doctor (JD) or Master’s degree in Law, obtained from an accredited university or institution, is required.

Holders of a Juries Doctor or equivalent law degree from an accredited university are required.

A supervisory training program of at least two weeks’ duration, accredited by a recognized educational institution, is required.

A recognized institution must offer a Management Course that spans a minimum duration of four weeks.

A leadership training program of at least four (4) weeks duration, accredited by a reputable institution, is required.

Membership in relevant professional bodies and formal professional qualifications are essential prerequisites for this role.

Holders of a Postgraduate Diploma in Law are invited to apply. This qualification, earned through advanced legal studies, equips candidates with specialized knowledge in legal principles, procedures, and case analysis. Eligible applicants must possess this credential to be considered for the role.

Admission as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya requires meeting the specified eligibility criteria and undergoing the prescribed registration process. Candidates must satisfy the necessary academic qualifications and professional standards set by the relevant legal authority. Additionally, applicants are expected to complete the required training and examinations, if applicable, while demonstrating a commitment to upholding the ethical and professional obligations of the legal profession.

Certified Secretary (CS) qualification is essential, with a preference for candidates holding the CS (K) designation. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional organizational skills, proficiency in managing schedules, and the ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently. Responsibilities include maintaining accurate records, coordinating meetings, preparing reports, and ensuring seamless communication between departments. Strong written and verbal communication abilities, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to problem-solving are required. Familiarity with office software, such as Microsoft Office Suite, and prior experience in a secretarial or administrative role are advantageous.

A qualified member in good standing with the Law Society of Kenya.

Holders of a current Practicing Certificate issued by the Law Society of Kenya are eligible to apply.

A minimum of one year of professional experience in a related field is necessary for consideration.

With at least twelve (12) years of pertinent professional experience, including five (5) years in a

We are seeking an experienced leader to fill a high-level management role, responsible for strategic decision-making and overseeing key business operations. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in leadership, with at least 10 years of progressive experience in a senior management capacity. Strong financial acumen, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to drive organizational growth are essential. Responsibilities include developing and implementing business strategies, managing cross-functional teams, and ensuring alignment with company objectives. The role demands a results-oriented professional capable of navigating complex challenges while fostering a collaborative work environment.

Qualifications

BA/BSc/HND , Diploma , MBA/MSc/MA , Professional Certificate

Experience Required

12 years

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