Job Purpose
Provides strategic direction in the delivery of legal services, offering expert guidance on corporate governance and ensuring the secure preservation of legal documentation while advising management on legal matters to uphold compliance with applicable laws and regulations, thereby safeguarding KEYS’ interests in alignment with its mandate under the Standards Act, CAP 496, of Kenyan law. This role facilitates domestic, regional, and international trade while promoting ease of business operations, all while protecting consumer health and safety, environmental preservation, and adherence to constitutional provisions—specifically Articles 42, 43(a, b, c & d), 46(a, b & c)—as well as the Standards Act (Cap 496, Laws of Kenya). Furthermore, the position fosters a culture of quality assurance to advance Kenya’s Vision 2030, the African Union Agenda 2063, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Kenya’s stance on legal matters pertaining to Standardization, Metrology, and Conformity Assessment (YMCA) is effectively communicated by this role, which also involves representing Kenya in negotiations at regional and international forums. The position aims to strengthen market access for Kenyan products by advocating for favorable trade conditions in these discussions.
Overseeing a range of critical responsibilities, the role involves managing core duties essential to the position. Primary tasks include executing key functions, ensuring operational efficiency, and maintaining alignment with organizational objectives. Additional responsibilities encompass addressing various challenges, fostering team collaboration, and upholding high standards of performance. The position requires adhering to established guidelines, meeting deadlines consistently, and contributing to strategic initiatives. A proactive approach is necessary to handle dynamic situations, optimize processes, and support overall business growth.
Overseeing a team or department, this role involves directing employees, assigning tasks, and ensuring operational efficiency. Responsibilities include monitoring performance, providing feedback, and resolving team-related challenges to maintain productivity and adherence to organizational goals. Strong leadership, clear communication, and the ability to motivate staff are essential, along with experience in delegation and conflict resolution.
Delivers high-level strategic direction and bears full responsibility for the delivery of legal services, the secure management of legal documents, and the provision of guidance on best practices in corporate governance. Oversees the administration of legal instruments, manages litigation processes, and advises management on legal matters to ensure adherence to all applicable legal and regulatory obligations.
To safeguard KEYS interests and effectively execute its mandate in accordance with the Standards Act CAP 496 of the laws of Kenya, the following requirements must be fulfilled.
Strategic leadership is provided, with accountability for the development and execution of KEYS Legal policies, strategies, and procedures.
The role entails offering strategic leadership in the development and interpretation of the National Quality Infrastructure framework, specifically focusing on Standardization, Metrology, and Conformity Assessment (YMCA), to support KEYS in fulfilling its mandate of facilitating trade while ensuring consumer health and safety, environmental protection, minimizing technical trade barriers, and enhancing the competitiveness of Kenyan products and services.
Delivers strategic direction in evaluating the effects of shifting operational conditions on applicable legislation, legal policies, and regulatory frameworks, ensuring KEYS interests are protected, and seamless integration is maintained within the broader governmental context. This role also advances national, regional, and international trade facilitation efforts.
Strategic leadership is provided in the development and issuance of national standards by the National Standards Council (NSC), as well as the preparation and publication of legal notices mandating these standards and the role of the gazetteer inspector.
Delivers strategic direction in the preparation and official publication of statutory instruments governing KEYS operations.
Offers strategic direction in overseeing the administration of contracts, memoranda of understanding (Mouse), and collaborative legal instruments between KEYS and partners across national, regional, and international scopes to ensure seamless execution.
Demonstrates executive leadership in managing litigation and arbitration cases involving KEYS, ensuring robust representation in judicial forums, courts, tribunals, and quasi-judicial entities to protect and advance KEYS’ legal and strategic interests.
Delivers high-level guidance to establish and execute business continuity strategies specifically for legal affairs, ensuring the uninterrupted functioning of KEYS operations.
Delivers visionary leadership to institute, execute, monitor, assess, and enhance KEYS’s Management Systems, ensuring their ongoing efficiency, effectiveness, and sustained customer satisfaction.
The incumbent is tasked with leading performance management and enhancing productivity across the directorate, holding full responsibility and accountability for its overall performance outcomes.
Ensures the effective execution of the Risk Management Framework within the Directorate, mitigating adverse risk impacts while capitalizing on available opportunities.
The incumbent will ensure the identification and allocation of all necessary human and physical resources for the directorate, thereby facilitating the successful execution and attainment of strategic objectives. This role involves overseeing the seamless provision of these resources to support the directorate’s operational needs and long-term goals.
The directorate’s objectives are advanced through the oversight of staff competency development, achieved via structured training initiatives, mentorship, coaching, and practical on-the-job learning experiences.
Ensure the seamless execution of daily operational duties to maintain efficient workflow across all departments. Oversee key processes, verify adherence to established protocols, and promptly address any deviations to uphold productivity and compliance standards. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align operational strategies with organizational objectives, fostering a cohesive and high-performing work environment. Additionally, monitor performance metrics, generate insightful reports, and propose data-driven improvements to enhance operational effectiveness.
The position involves managing the creation and execution of work plans, budgets, the Medium Expenditure Framework, and procurement strategies within both the Directorate and the National Standards Council.
Supplies strategic direction in addressing correspondence with legal implications and advises personnel on potential legal actions arising from KEYS operations conducted during official duties.
Strategically leads the creation, upkeep, and enhancement of KEYS databases for all relevant cases where KEYS holds an interest.
Offers strategic direction for legal clinics to ensure operational alignment and staff guidance.
Provides strategic legal counsel and guidance to the National Standards Council, senior management, and staff regarding legal instruments, contractual agreements, and corporate governance matters, ensuring adherence to statutory and regulatory requirements.
Leads and facilitates collaboration between KEYS and external stakeholders, ensuring adherence to statutory, regulatory requirements, and international obligations.
Responsible for coordinating the drafting of KEYS and directorate board papers and guaranteeing their timely submission to the E-Board for review and final approval by the NSC.
Responsible for managing the board’s induction and training initiatives while coordinating board evaluations to uphold strong corporate governance standards.
Demonstrates leadership in overseeing the legal function’s service delivery to ensure efficiency, effectiveness, legal and regulatory compliance, and proactive identification and management of risks.
Provides strategic direction in litigation initiatives, offering expert counsel on KEYS defense strategies and recommending optimal alternative dispute resolution approaches to protect KEYS’s interests effectively.
Responsible for managing the timely preparation and submission of responses to Parliamentary questions related to the legal mandate and operational activities of KEYS.
Supervises the formulation and evaluation of the National Standards Council’s charter and related governance documents.
Design, develop, and implement cutting-edge instruments with precision and innovation. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance. Maintain rigorous quality standards while adhering to strict project timelines. Troubleshoot complex issues to minimize downtime and enhance efficiency. Provide expert technical support and training to stakeholders to ensure proper utilization and maintenance. Stay abreast of industry advancements to continuously improve instrument capabilities.
The National Standards Council’s resolutions are conveyed to directorates to facilitate their implementation, thereby enhancing the organization’s operational efficiency.
Delivers custodial care for KEYS legal instruments and the corporate seal, ensuring their proper maintenance and responsible management.
Over the directorate, this role is responsible for establishing performance targets, evaluating their alignment with organizational objectives, and granting final approval for their implementation. Additionally, the position entails continuous monitoring of progress against these targets, ensuring accountability and driving performance improvements across the department.
The position involves executing tasks and submitting performance reports to the Managing Director.
Demonstrates leadership in executing National Standards Council resolutions pertaining to legal affairs;
Reviews and authorizes expenditures made by the directorate to ensure compliance with established budgets and financial policies.
Assigns tasks and grants approval for leave requests from direct reports.
Job qualifications encompass a blend of essential knowledge, practical experience, and key attributes or skills required for the role.
Holds a relevant degree in a pertinent field, with a minimum requirement of a bachelor’s level qualification or higher. Demonstrates proficiency in academic research methodologies and analytical skills. Possesses the ability to interpret and apply complex theoretical concepts effectively. Maintains a commitment to continuous learning and professional development in the respective academic discipline.
Obtained a Master’s degree in Law from an accredited institution.
Holders of a Juries Doctor (JD) or equivalent Bachelor of Laws (LLB) qualification, conferred by an accredited university or tertiary institution, are required.
A two-week minimum supervisory course from an accredited institution is required.
A recognized institution must offer a management course that spans a minimum duration of four weeks.
A leadership development program, spanning a minimum of four weeks, must be completed from an accredited institution.
Holds active affiliation with recognized professional organizations relevant to the role.
Earned a Postgraduate Diploma in Law, equipping you with advanced legal knowledge and practical skills essential for navigating complex legal frameworks.
As an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya, you must be admitted to practice law in this jurisdiction. This role requires adherence to the professional standards and ethical obligations prescribed by the Law Society of Kenya. You will be expected to represent clients in legal proceedings before the High Court, including drafting pleadings, presenting arguments, and ensuring compliance with procedural rules. Additionally, you may provide legal advice, negotiate settlements, and manage case documentation with precision and professionalism.
A professional Certified Secretary’s course, designated as CS(K), is being offered to provide specialized training in secretarial skills. Participants in this program will gain comprehensive knowledge and practical expertise in organizational management, administrative support, and professional communication. The curriculum covers essential topics such as office procedures, record-keeping, and efficient task coordination. Upon completion, graduates will be equipped to handle executive-level responsibilities, including preparing reports, managing schedules, and facilitating seamless office operations. This course is designed for individuals seeking to enhance their secretarial competencies and pursue career advancement in administrative roles.
A registered and active member of the Law Society of Kenya, adhering to all professional standards and ethical obligations.
Holders must possess a Valid Practicing Certificate issued by the Law Society of Kenya.
A minimum of relevant work experience is necessary for consideration.
A minimum of twelve years of relevant professional experience is required, with at least five of those years dedicated to specialized work in the field.
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced professional to fill a senior management role. The ideal candidate will possess extensive leadership experience, a proven track record of strategic decision-making, and exceptional interpersonal skills to drive organizational success. Responsibilities include overseeing key operations, managing cross-functional teams, and ensuring alignment with company objectives. Additionally, the position requires strong financial acumen, the ability to mentor and develop talent, and a commitment to fostering a high-performance culture. Candidates must demonstrate a minimum of 10 years in a managerial capacity, along with a degree in Business Administration, Management, or a related field, and a history of achieving measurable results in previous leadership positions.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND , Diploma , MBA/MSc/MA , Professional Certificate
Experience Required
12 years
