REF: KNCHR/ADM/ DRAO/01/05/2026
Reports directly to the Commission Secretary, who also serves as the Chief Executive Officer.
The position oversees a team comprising Deputy Directors for the Reforms and Accountability Division, Research and Compliance Division, Public Education and Training Division, and Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Division.
The position oversees several Assistant Directors across key divisions, including the Reform and Accountability Division, Research and Compliance Division, Public Education and Training Division, and Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights Division.
A five-year contract, renewable upon mutual agreement, is available for this position.
Duty station is based in Nairobi, with periodic travel requirements.
A monthly salary of Kshs. 406,750 is provided before any deductions.
Other Benefits include comprehensive medical coverage, Group Life Insurance, and Work Injury Benefits Act (FIBA) coverage.
The primary objective of this position is to enhance organizational effectiveness by fulfilling key responsibilities and meeting specific requirements. The role involves executing tasks that contribute to strategic goals, ensuring operational efficiency, and maintaining alignment with company objectives. Candidates must possess the necessary qualifications, experience, and skills to perform duties competently and adapt to evolving challenges. Responsibilities include managing projects, collaborating with teams, and driving performance improvements to achieve desired outcomes.
This role entails providing strategic leadership and comprehensive oversight to develop, execute, and assess policies, procedures, plans, strategies, standards, and guidelines that govern research, advocacy, and outreach activities. The objective is to ensure the efficient and effective fulfillment of the Commission’s mandate through these critical functions.
Oversee a range of critical responsibilities integral to the role, ensuring seamless execution of key duties that drive operational and strategic objectives. Perform essential tasks with precision, maintaining high standards of accountability and efficiency in all assigned functions. Collaborate across departments to facilitate cohesive workflows, ensuring alignment with organizational goals while addressing dynamic challenges. Provide expertise in specialized areas, contributing to informed decision-making and continuous improvement initiatives. Manage projects from inception to completion, monitoring progress and adjusting strategies as needed to meet established benchmarks. Uphold compliance with industry regulations and internal policies, mitigating risks and fostering a culture of integrity and excellence.
Overseeing and directing team operations, ensuring adherence to company standards and fostering a productive work environment, falls within the scope of this role. Leading, mentoring, and evaluating staff performance to optimize efficiency and team cohesion is a key responsibility. Additionally, delegating tasks appropriately, monitoring progress, and resolving conflicts to maintain workflow alignment with organizational objectives are integral duties. Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills are required to fulfill these managerial and supervisory functions effectively.
Provide high-level strategic leadership and oversight in managing all research, advocacy, and outreach initiatives across the Commission.
Oversee and guide the execution of the directorate’s programs to ensure alignment with and achievement of the Commission’s strategic goals and mandate.
Offer strategic direction and oversee the development and execution of policies and strategies for the directorate’s programs, ensuring the Commission fulfills its functions efficiently.
Oversee the preparation and submission of statutory reports, periodic human rights assessments, and supplementary reports for presentation at the national parliamentary level, as well as regional and international human rights forums.
The incumbent will oversee the preparation and submission of all Commission reports, advisories, memorandums, communiqués, research tools, donor reports, curricula, and educational materials addressing critical human rights issues to stakeholders at the national, regional, and international levels.
Oversee and manage the execution of the Commission’s recommendations and advisories as outlined in its reports, ensuring thorough and timely implementation.
Responsible for directing the supervision, tracking, and assessment of the directorate’s operational processes and overall performance.
Supervise the allocation and deployment of resources across the Directorate’s thematic areas while ensuring the development and formulation of its budget align with strategic priorities, thereby guaranteeing optimal utilization of all available resources.
The Commission requires to be structured task allocation and resource optimization, with responsibilities including the systematic organization and assignment of duties to division heads to maximize the efficient use of both human and financial resources.
Coordinate and enhance staff performance by providing mentoring, coaching, and structured appraisals to support ongoing professional development across the Directorate. Additionally, implement initiatives to build staff capacity and foster a culture of continuous improvement within the team.
Supervise and lead the development, design, and execution of the directorate’s quality control framework to ensure alignment with the Commission’s established performance targets.
Coordinate and spearhead the Commission’s involvement in critical task forces, statutory boards, and ad hoc committees, focusing on emerging human rights issues pertinent to the Directorate’s operational scope.
Demonstrate leadership in cultivating collaboration, seamless communication, and strategic alignment across all divisions within the directorate, ensuring the cohesive execution of the Commission’s mandate and objectives.
Oversee the day-to-day operational tasks to ensure seamless workflow efficiency and adherence to established procedures. Implement and maintain systems that enhance productivity while monitoring performance metrics to identify areas for improvement. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align operational goals with broader organizational objectives, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous enhancement. Develop and enforce policies that promote compliance with industry regulations and internal standards, mitigating risks and optimizing resource allocation. Provide leadership and guidance to staff, ensuring clear communication of expectations and fostering a collaborative work environment.
Conceptualize, oversee, and execute the comprehensive planning, design, and implementation of the directorate’s initiatives, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and strategic priorities.
You will execute responsibilities in alignment with the Commission’s strategic plan and mandate.
Review and integrate the directorate’s work plans and reports to verify compliance with organizational standards and strategic objectives. Ensure all documentation is accurate, consistent, and aligned with established goals while identifying any discrepancies or areas requiring improvement. Maintain clear, concise records and facilitate timely distribution to stakeholders to support informed decision-making and operational efficiency.
In alignment with the established performance benchmarks for the Directorate, this role is designed to ensure all objectives are met efficiently and effectively. The position requires a commitment to achieving the predefined targets set forth by the Directorate, with a focus on maintaining high standards of performance and accountability. By adhering to these goals, the role contributes to the overall success and strategic direction of the Directorate.
Oversee the punctual completion and submission of quarterly and annual reporting tasks across all divisions within the directorate.
The incumbent will develop and execute divisional reports, advisories, memorandums, communiqués, research tools, donor reports, curriculums, and educational materials for the directorate, ensuring full alignment with the Commission’s established standards and mandate.
Craft innovative strategies and conceptual frameworks to facilitate the mobilization of resources and oversee the operational activities of the directorate.
Provide expert counsel to the Commission Secretary and Commissioners on all issues pertaining to research, advocacy, and outreach initiatives within the Commission.
The Commission will be represented at senior-level meetings across national, regional, and international settings to advocate for its conclusions, advisories, recommendations, and official stances on critical thematic human rights concerns.
Develop and sustain strong networks and strategic partnerships with key stakeholders to advance research advocacy and outreach initiatives.
Oversee and regulate the allocation and tracking of the directorate’s financial resources to ensure efficient and compliant budget management.
Job Dimensions:
Overseeing financial activities with diligence and accountability is essential, including managing budgets, tracking expenditures, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. This role demands meticulous attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to interpret financial data accurately. Experience in financial reporting, budget forecasting, and risk assessment is required, along with proficiency in accounting software and tools. Effective communication is necessary to present financial insights to stakeholders and collaborate with cross-functional teams. A degree in finance, accounting, or a related field, along with relevant certifications, is preferred.
Tasked with overseeing the financial resources and budgets of the directorate to ensure judicious allocation in alignment with the Commission’s mandate.
Exercises comprehensive supervision over the directorate’s personnel and financial assets.
The position oversees the administration of all grants across the Directorate of Research, Advocacy, and Outreach.
The incumbent submits regular financial updates and pertinent recommendations to the Commission Secretary regarding the directorate’s fiscal standing, advising on strategies to promote judicious and efficient resource allocation.
Overseeing and maintaining physical assets constitutes a primary responsibility, ensuring their optimal condition, functionality, and longevity. This role involves regular inspections, preventive maintenance, and prompt repairs to mitigate risks and minimize operational disruptions. Additionally, it requires diligent record-keeping of asset performance, usage, and expenditures to support strategic decision-making and compliance with organizational policies. Effective management of these resources contributes directly to the efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness of operational processes.
Responsibilities include managing and maintaining various office equipment such as printers, laptops, tablets, phones, desktops, workstations, filing cabinets, coat hangers, and fans, ensuring they remain in optimal working condition to support daily operations.
Strategic decision-making and professional influence are central to this role, shaping key organizational outcomes through informed judgment and leadership. The position demands the ability to assess complex scenarios, evaluate potential risks, and align decisions with long-term business objectives. Responsibilities include collaborating with cross-functional teams to gather insights, weighing diverse perspectives, and driving solutions that enhance operational efficiency and growth. Strong analytical skills and a results-driven mindset are essential to assess challenges, identify opportunities, and implement strategies that deliver measurable impact.
Provides strategic leadership and final authorization regarding the priorities, design, frameworks, key policies, and execution of all research, advocacy, and outreach initiatives and programs within the Commission.
Provides expert counsel to the Commission on all aspects of Research, Advocacy, and Outreach, ensuring informed decision-making and strategic guidance.
A Tactical Decisions Analyst is responsible for evaluating complex operational scenarios to identify critical insights and recommend strategic courses of action. This role requires a strong analytical mindset, proficiency in data interpretation, and the ability to synthesize information under tight deadlines. Key duties include assessing risks, optimizing resource allocation, and advising leadership on high-stakes decisions. Ideal candidates should possess a relevant degree in business, finance, or a related field, along with demonstrated experience in decision-support roles. Exceptional problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and clear communication abilities are essential for success in this position.
Responsible for overseeing all operations within the directorate, this role involves delegating tasks, addressing challenges promptly, managing crises, and resolving disputes to uphold the seamless execution of the Commission’s mandate.
Provides counsel to the Commission regarding the State’s adherence to human rights principles and standards, delivering critical recommendations on necessary actions for the Commission to undertake.
Analytical Decisions involve evaluating complex problems, identifying key data points, and synthesizing information to drive informed choices. This role requires a strong ability to interpret numerical data, recognize patterns, and assess risks while maintaining meticulous attention to detail. Professionals in this position must possess robust problem-solving skills, proficiency in data analysis tools, and the capacity to communicate insights effectively to stakeholders. Responsibilities include conducting thorough research, developing strategic recommendations, and ensuring decisions align with organizational objectives through evidence-based reasoning.
Conducts comprehensive evaluations of the directorate’s program outcomes and provides strategic recommendations to the Commission based on thorough analysis.
Operational decisions encompass critical choices that shape the organization’s day-to-day functioning, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives. These decisions involve evaluating processes, allocating resources, and implementing policies to maintain efficiency and productivity. Professionals in this role must possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to prioritize tasks under dynamic conditions. Additionally, they should demonstrate proficiency in data interpretation and familiarity with industry best practices to support informed decision-making.
Reviews and authorizes the directorate’s internal and external communications. Oversees the execution of human resource strategies.
Oversees the performance of division heads within the Financial Decisions department.
The directorate oversees and coordinates the allocation and utilization of all financial and human resources to guarantee the efficient fulfillment of the Commission’s mandate.
Working Conditions
The position is headquartered in Nairobi, requiring extensive national field travel as well as participation in high-level regional and international meetings.
The role involves extended working hours and requires travel to remote, high-risk locations, including detention facilities, security operation zones, and conflict-prone regions. Additionally, it entails exposure to multicultural environments and the monitoring of hospitals, prisons, schools, and security operation areas.
Job Competencies encompass the essential knowledge, experience, and attributes or skills required for the position.
Academic qualifications for this position include a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as education, curriculum development, or a closely related discipline, with a minimum of three years of teaching experience in an educational setting. Candidates must possess a valid state teaching license, specialized training in instructional methodologies, and demonstrated expertise in curriculum design and assessment strategies. Additionally, familiarity with educational technology platforms and a commitment to ongoing professional development are required to excel in this role.
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 other relevant field from a recognized institution is required.
A PhD is considered an additional asset for this role.
Professional certifications and affiliations with recognized industry organizations are essential.
A postgraduate qualification in Strategic and Project Management, Planning, Proposal Writing/Administration, Governance, or Human Rights is required.
Membership in an appropriate professional organization is essential.
A minimum six-week certificate program in strategic leadership or management, accredited by a recognized institution, is required.
Training in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and Project Cycle Management is required.
A minimum of two years of prior work experience in a related field is essential.
Held the position of Deputy Director for no less than three years.
With over a decade of professional experience, including a minimum of five years in a leadership or supervisory capacity, you will bring a wealth of expertise to this role.
Proven expertise and familiarity with international, regional, and national human rights frameworks and instruments are essential for this role.
Accomplished in designing and executing research initiatives from inception to completion.
Demonstrated success in developing and spearheading advocacy and outreach initiatives from inception to completion.
Functional Skills and Behavioral Competencies/Attributes:
Functional Skills encompass essential abilities required for effective performance in academic, professional, and daily life contexts. These competencies, which include literacy, numeracy, and digital proficiency, are foundational for problem-solving, communication, and adaptability across various tasks. Employers and educational institutions often prioritize candidates who demonstrate proficiency in these areas, as they directly impact productivity, collaboration, and overall success. Whether in entry-level roles or specialized positions, the mastery of functional skills ensures individuals can navigate challenges, interpret information accurately, and contribute meaningfully to their environments.
Demonstrated capability in assembling and guiding high-performing, collaborative teams to achieve organizational objectives.
Experienced in designing and implementing research, advocacy, and outreach initiatives, with a proven ability to develop impactful project frameworks. Skilled in structuring comprehensive proposals that align with organizational goals and drive community or stakeholder engagement.
Proven ability to provide effective strategic direction and leadership is essential.
Critical thinking and analysis skills are essential for evaluating complex information, identifying solutions, and making informed decisions in dynamic environments. These competencies enable individuals to assess data objectively, recognize patterns, and develop logical conclusions while remaining adaptable to changing circumstances. Strong analytical abilities further support problem-solving, risk assessment, and strategic planning, ensuring clarity and precision in professional endeavors.
Proven abilities in resolving complex issues and effectively managing urgent situations are essential. Strong analytical thinking combined with the capacity to maintain composure under pressure is required. Experience in identifying root causes, developing strategic solutions, and implementing corrective actions is highly valued.
Demonstrates exceptional capability in formulating and implementing strategic initiatives with precision and foresight.
Responsible for overseeing financial operations, developing budgets, and ensuring efficient allocation of resources to support organizational goals. Analyzes financial data, forecasts trends, and prepares reports to guide strategic decision-making. Collaborates with department heads to align financial plans with operational needs while maintaining compliance with accounting standards and regulatory requirements.
Proficiency in the project management lifecycle and public administration is required.
Proficient in IT systems, possessing practical expertise across diverse software applications, with strong behavioral competencies and inherent attributes.
Proven ability in effectively managing tasks and resolving challenges with a high degree of efficiency and strategic thinking.
Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in both written and verbal communication, ensuring clarity and effectiveness in all professional interactions.
We seek a candidate with exceptional interpersonal abilities, enabling effective collaboration with diverse teams and stakeholders. The ideal individual will demonstrate strong communication skills, both verbal and written, to convey ideas clearly and build rapport with colleagues at all levels. Proficiency in conflict resolution and active listening is essential for fostering a positive work environment and maintaining productive relationships. Additionally, the role requires adaptability to varying personalities and workplace dynamics while upholding professionalism and emotional intelligence in all interactions.
Proven expertise in conflict resolution methodologies and dispute mediation techniques is essential. The ideal candidate will possess strong negotiation abilities to facilitate mutually acceptable agreements between disputing parties. Proficiency in conflict de-escalation strategies and the capacity to remain impartial while guiding discussions toward constructive resolutions are required. Familiarity with formal ADR frameworks, including mediation, arbitration, and negotiation, is highly valued. Exceptional communication skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to manage high-pressure situations with tact and professionalism are critical for success in this role. Prior experience in facilitating dialogue and achieving fair outcomes in complex disputes is strongly preferred.
Fulfill all stipulations outlined in Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya.
To apply, please submit your application through the designated method outlined below. Ensure all required documents and information are included to facilitate the review process. Follow the specified instructions carefully to ensure your application is considered for further evaluation.
Qualifications
MBA/MSc/MA , PhD/Fellowship
Experience Required
3 years
