KenTrade Latest Vacancies in Kenya

General Manager – Operations

Job Description

Job Title : General Manager-Operations
Location : Head Office
Division : Operations
Reporting to : Chief Executive Officer

Supervises : (i) Head of Trade Facilitation;(ii) Head of Customer Service; and (iii) Head of ICT.

Purpose of the Job

To oversee the Trade Facilitation, Customer Service and ICT functions in the Agency, including but not limited to;

• Development, implementation, and operationalisation of the Electronic Single Window System, and information and communication technology support to all departments and other support functions to enable them serve stakeholders in a cost-effective and efficient manner;
• Continuous scanning of the operational environment, identification of business opportunities and re-engineering of business processes in line with changes in the dynamic business environment;
• Provision of business solutions to trade logistics that leverage on ICT to automate and re- engineer business processes with a view to facilitating effective implementation of the Electronic Single Window System; and
• Development and operationalisation of a customer service strategy that entails adequate engagement and sensitization of diverse stakeholder segments on the Electronic Single Window System initiative and service delivery channels that ensure effective service delivery so as to meet the diverse expectations of the various stakeholder segments all customers

Main Tasks and Responsibilities

• Overseeing and coordinating the development and implementation of a comprehensive ICT strategy covering all operations of the Agency;
• Overseeing and coordinating the development and maintenance of the Electronic
• Single Window System’s architecture, defining standards and protocol for data exchange, communications, software and interconnection of the Agency’s information systems;
• Overseeing and coordinating he development and maintenance of corporate policies and standards aimed at maximizing operation of ICT systems;
• Overseeing and coordinating the conduct of research on emerging Information and Communication Technologies to ensure appropriate ICT investment in line with market trends;
• Overseeing the linkage between external stakeholder technology systems and the Agency’s ICT infrastructure;
• Overseeing the evaluation, selection, implementation and maintenance of information systems, ensuring appropriate investment in strategic and operational systems;
• Overseeing and coordinating effective monitoring of the implementation of ICT strategy to facilitate business transactional processes and enhance the delivery of services;
• Overseeing and coordinating the development and monitoring of the approval of annual operating and capital budgets for information and technology systems;
• Providing overall leadership and drive towards a culture of innovation and creativity in seeking ICT solutions to organizational challenges and in business processes to facilitate efficient and effective trade transactions;
• Overseeing and coordinating the timely implementation of the Electronic Single Window System in Kenya and ensure the business processes meet international practices;
• Overseeing and coordinating the monitoring of the entire systems requirements life circle of Electronic Single Window System to ensure that delivered solutions meets business needs and adds value to Kenyan and the regional economies;
• Overseeing and coordinating the development and implementation of work procedures, perform training sessions, construct new procedure manuals, institute new company procedures and take any other important and necessary steps towards resolving any problems within the business environment;
• Overseeing and coordinating analysis of important data related to the business such as business records, operating manuals, business guides and other pertinent documents and ensure they are up to date and relevant to the Agency business requirements;
• Overseeing and coordinating the collection of trade statistics;
• Overseeing and coordinating the continuous conduct of research on business development and trade logistics improvements;
• Overseeing and coordinating the development and operationalization of a customer service strategy that entails adequate engagement and sensitization of diverse stakeholder segments on the SWS Change initiative and service delivery channels that ensure effective service delivery so as to meet the diverse expectations of the various stakeholder segments all customers; and
• Overseeing and coordinating the preparation of Board Papers on Trade Facilitation, ICT and Customer Service matters.

Contacts

(i) Internal:

• Chief Executive Officer; and
• General Manager, Support Services.

(ii) External

• The Electronic Single Window System Vendor;
• Other Government Bodies/Agencies using the SWS;
• Stakeholders/Customers;
• Business Community;
• Relevant Government Ministries;
• Kenya ICT Board;
• ICT Consultants ; and
• Suppliers of ICT hardware and Software.

Job Specifications

A: Minimum Academic Qualifications

• 1. Postgraduate degree in either ICT, Operations Management, Economics or Business Administration from a recognized University.

B: Professional Qualifications

• Postgraduate Diploma in either ICT, Operations Management or Business Administration; and
• Postgraduate Qualification in Customer Service is an added advantage.

C. Membership

• Membership to relevant professional bodies based on discipline of specialization as outlined in A above.

D: Work Experience

• At least 10 years working experience at top management level within an operational/core-business function.

E: Other Skills and Personal Attributes Required

• Good organizational skills, analytical and attentive to detail with individual leadership and interpersonal skills;
• Demonstrable skills sets in either ICT, Operations, or Business Administration coupled with administrative and managerial skills;
• An astute communicator in both oral and written communication;
• Effective presentation skills;
• Willingness to work long hours under stretch targets in a fast-paced working environment ;
• Ability to work in a team environment and motivate employees under him; and
• Be computer literate in relevant ICT/Business Development/Customer Service applications and packages.

General Manager - Support Services

Job Description

Job Title : General Manager-Support Services
Location : Head Office
Division : Support Services
Reporting To : Chief Executive Officer
Supervises : (i) Head of Finance; (ii) Head of HR and Administration; (iii)Head of Strategy & Planning; and (iv) Head of Procurement.

Purpose of the Job

To oversee the Finance, Human Resource and Administrative support functions in the organization, including but not limited to;

• Ensuring prudent financial management and internal controls by overseeing the development and implementation of appropriate financial policies, procedures and systems, so as to ensure integrity, timely service delivery and value for money for the Agency; and
• Ensuring availability of adequate and competent staff; staff training and development; reward management; maintenance of good industrial relations; and administrative support functions for enhanced service delivery to all the stakeholder segments of the Agency.

Main Tasks and Responsibilities

• Overseeing and coordinating the development and operationalisation of the Agency’s Finance Strategy and Budgets;
• Overseeing and coordinating the preparation of budgets and providing technical support/advice to line managers on budgeting;
• Overseeing and coordinating the preparation of financial policies, procedures and guidelines;
• Overseeing and coordinating the development and implementation of Human Resources Management Strategies that support the Corporate Vision, Mission and Strategic Objectives of the Agency;
• Overseeing and coordinating the development and implementation of effective human resources policies, plans and procedures to guide employment practices;
• Overseeing and coordinating the development and implementation of appropriate human resource and succession plans to address the Agency’s present and future staff needs;
• Overseeing and coordinating the development of staff Job Descriptions and Specifications;
• Overseeing and coordinating the implementation of commensurate compensation and benefits packages to ensure attraction and retention of qualified and competent staff;
• Overseeing and coordinating the development and implementation of sound Performance Management Systems that facilitate a comprehensive performance contracting framework for staff at all levels to facilitate effective implementation of the Agency’s Strategic Plan;
• Overseeing the development of the Agency’s Pension Scheme in conformity to RBA and government regulations;
• Overseeing and coordinating the development and implementation of pre-requisite occupational health and safety programs with a view to ensuring a conducive work environment;
• Overseeing and coordinating the development and institutionalization of an appropriate performance-based corporate culture that supports the business;
• Overseeing and coordinating effective salary administration and reward management, including administration of staff payroll;
• Overseeing and coordinating compliance to the Labour Laws and Government regulations;
• Overseeing and coordinating the outsourcing of support services and effective supervision of their administration;
• Overseeing and coordinating the provision of effective and efficient administrative support services to the entire Agency through proper management of office services and logistics;
• Overseeing and coordinating the administrative function in the broader areas of Transport and Logistics; Document Production; Office logistics and services;
• Overseeing and coordinating the provision of back office administrative skills in document handling and storage, facility security and upkeep, licensing policies, travel arrangements, accommodation and fleet management;
• Overseeing and coordinating the design of appropriate administrative systems and policies and ensuring compliance by the various functional units;
• Overseeing the Strategy, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation function;
• Overseeing all aspects related to the Procurement function; and
• Overseeing and coordinating the preparation of Board Papers on Finance, Human Resources and Administration matters.

Contacts

(i) Internal:

• Chief Executive Officer; and
• General Manager-Operations.

(ii) External:

• The Treasury;
• The Ministry of Labour;
• Relevant Statutory Bodies in Finance, Procurement and HR.
• Other relevant Government Officers; and
• Consultants in Finance and HR.

Job Specifications

A: Minimum Academic Qualifications

• A Postgraduate degree in Finance, Human Resources or Business Administration from a recognized University.

B: Professional Qualifications

• Postgraduate Diploma in Finance, Human Resources Management or Administration.

C. Membership

• Membership to relevant professional bodies based on discipline of specialization as outlined in A above.

D: Work Experience

• At least 10 years working experience at top management level within a support service function.

E: Other Skills and Personal Attributes Required

• Good organizational skills, analytical and attentive to detail with individual leadership and interpersonal skills;
• Demonstrable skills sets in Finance or strategic HR management practice and administrative and managerial skills;
• An astute communicator in both oral and written communication;
• Effective presentation skills;
• Willingness to work long hours under stretch targets in a fast-paced working environment ;
• Ability to work in a team environment and motivate employees under him; and
• Be computer literate in relevant Finance/HR applications and packages.

Corporation Secretary and Head of Legal Affairs

Job Description

Job Title : Corporation Secretary and Head of Legal Affairs
Location : Head Office
Department : Legal Affairs
Reporting to : Chief Executive Officer
Supervises : None

Purpose of the Job

To ensure effective and efficient management of Board activities; contract administration; management of the Agency’s legal and regulatory affairs; ensuring compliance to legal and regulatory legislation; drafting and negotiating legal agreements; executing contracts and other instruments for the Agency; secretarial duties and is the principal legal advisor to the Agency.

Main Tasks and Responsibilities

• Provides legal advice to the Agency;
• Monitors and reviews regulations governing the operations and ensures compliance with statutory requirements on a continuous basis;
• Organizes Board Meetings, and coordinates preparation of agenda including other documents required for such meetings;
• Prepares Minutes of the Board Meetings and ensures their circulation;
• Ensures safekeeping of confirmed and signed Minutes of Board Meetings;
• Provides advice on all contracts and agreements to be entered into between the Agency and other parties;
• Handles the Agency’s litigation functions in liaison with the State Law Office; attends court as appropriate and ensures the Agency obtains effective representation as necessary;
• Facilitates dispute resolution between the Agency and third parties; and
• Ensures the Agency operates within the Law and advises on compliance issues.

Contacts

(i) Internal:

• Board Members;
• Chief Executive Officer; and
• Heads of Department.

(ii) External:

• Relevant Government Officers;
• Relevant Statutory bodies;
• Legal representatives of other organizations;
• Ethics and Anti Corruption Commission (EACC)
• Commission on Administrative Justice; and
• The Judiciary.

Job Specifications

A: Minimum Academic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Law.

B: Professional Qualifications

• Diploma in Law from Kenya School of Law;
• Advocate of the High Court of Kenya;
• Commissioner of Oaths; and
• Certified Public Secretary - Kenya (CPS-K).

C. Membership

• Member of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK)

D: Work Experience

• 10 years working experience in a commercial legal environment.

E: Other Skills and Personal Attributes Required

• Excellent communication skills;
• Interpersonal skills;
• Ability to make decisions;
• Ability to work under extreme pressure;
• Ability to work under strict deadlines;
• High level of Integrity;
• Self-motivated/personal drive;
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and good decision making; and
• Computer literacy in MS Office.

Head of Human Resources and Administration

Job Description

Job Title : Head of Human Resources and Administration
Location : Head Office
Department : Human Resources and Administration
Reporting to : General Manager, Support Services
Supervises : (i) HR Officer;(ii)Administration Officer; and (iii)Training Officer

Purpose of the Job

To formulate appropriate human resources management and administrative strategies, policies and programmes which will contribute to creation of an enabling work environment for employees of the Agency to enable them effectively apply their skills and competencies towards achievement of the organization’s mandate. 

The function will also provide professional advice to the Agency that facilitates adoption and application of best practices in Human Resources Management and general administration.

Main Tasks and Responsibilities

• Develops and implements Human Resources Management Strategies that support the Corporate Vision, Mission and Strategic Objectives of the Agency;
• Facilitates the development of effective human resources policies, plans and procedures to guide employment practices;
• Facilitates the development and implementation of appropriate human resource and succession plans to address the Agency’s present and future staff needs;
• Develops Job Descriptions and Specifications;
• Plans and conducts orientation of new employees to foster positive attitude towards organizational objectives;
• Ensures implementation of commensurate compensation and benefits packages to ensure attraction and retention of qualified and competent staff;
• Develops and implements sound Performance Management Systems that facilitate a comprehensive performance contracting framework for staff at all levels to facilitate effective implementation of the Agency’s Strategic Plan;
• Designs efficient and cost-effective recruitment and selection procedures and tools to ensure acquisition of the necessary talent;
• Undertakes Training Needs Assessment (TNA) to determine the relevant and effective staff training and development needs, and implements appropriate training programmes;
• Develops the Agency’s Pension Scheme in conformity to RBA and government regulations;
• Develops and implements pre-requisite occupational health and safety programmes with a view to ensuring a conducive work environment;
• Develops HR policies and procedures manual;
• Ensures relevant grievance handling procedures are in place;
• Ensures an elaborate skills inventory and records management framework is in place to facilitate availability of information on real time basis;
• Facilitates the development and institutionalization of an appropriate performance based corporate culture that supports the business;
• Ensures effective salary administration and reward management, including administration of staff payroll;
• Ensures compliance to the Labour Laws and Government regulations;
• Provides effective and efficient administrative support services to the entire Agency through proper management of office services and logistics;
• Leads and directs the administrative function in the broader areas of Transport and Logistics; Document Production; Office logistics and services;
• Provides back office administrative skills in document handling and storage, facility security and upkeep, licensing policies, travel arrangements, accommodation and fleet management;
• Designs appropriate administrative systems and policies and ensures compliance by the various functional units; and
• Manages and ensures effective maintenance of fixtures, furniture’s and equipments.

Contacts

(i) Internal:

• General Manager, Support Services;
• Heads of Departments; and
• All members of staff.

(ii) External:

• Government Officers;
• HR Consultants and training service providers;
• HR Officers in other state corporations;
• NSSF,NHIF and RBA;
• HELB; and
• Learning/Training institutions and the Directorate of Industrial Training (D.I.T)

Job Specifications

A: Minimum Academic Qualifications

• Masters Degree in Human Resources Management or its equivalent from a recognized University.

B: Professional Qualifications

• Post-graduate diploma in Human Resources Management.

C. Membership

• Membership to the Institute of Human Resource Management (K) or its equivalent.

D: Work Experience

• At least ten (10) years’ experience in Human Resource and administration, seven (7) of which should be at senior management level.

E: Other Skills and Personal Attributes Required

• Good organizational skills, analytical and attentive to detail with individual leadership and interpersonal skills;
• Demonstrable skills set in strategic HR management practice and administrative and managerial skills;
• An astute communicator in both oral and written communication;
• Effective presentation skills;
• Willingness to work long hours under stretch targets in a fast-paced working environment;
• Ability to work in a team environment and motivate employees under him; and
• Be computer literate in relevant HR applications and packages.

Head of Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

Job Description

Job Title : Head of Information and Communication Technology(ICT)
Location : Head Office
Department : Information and Communication Technology(ICT)
Reporting to : General Manager, Operations
Supervises : (i)Data Centre Manager; (ii)Infrastructure Manager; and(iii)Applications Manager

Purpose of the Job

To develop, implement, and operationalise the electronic Single Window System, and information and communication technology support to all departments and other support functions within the Agency to enable them serve stakeholders in a cost-effective and efficient manner.

Main Tasks and Responsibilities

• Ensures the development and implementation of a comprehensive ICT strategy covering all operations of the Agency;
• Develops and enforces policy and procedures to ensure the protection of the Agency’s IT assets as well as the security and privacy of information;
• Develops and maintains the systems architecture, defining standards and protocol for data exchange, communications, software and interconnection of the Agency’s information systems;
• Oversees the running and maintenance of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP).
• Develops and maintains corporate policies and standards aimed at maximizing operation of ICT systems;
• Approve, coordinate and control all projects related to selection, acquisition, Development and installation of major information systems for the Agency;
• Undertakes research on emerging information and communication technologies to ensure appropriate ICT investment in line with market trends;
• Assures functionality of operating systems, network and applications software for effective communication and puts in place measures which ensure security, privacy and integrity of ICT infrastructure and processes;
• Customizes ICT systems into an interactive infrastructure which enables faster access to data, information and the sharing of ICT resources by users;
• Maintains and/or develops comprehensive databases to provide trade statistics and other information on real-time basis for both internal and external uses;
• Oversees the Development and implementation of ICT systems’ security strategies, policies and procedures as well as the integrity and availability of data;
• Ensures that all information systems and networks operate according to internal standards as well as external accrediting agency standards, regulatory agencies and legal requirements;
• Developing and monitoring the approved annual operating and capital budgets for information and technology systems;
• Leads and drives a culture of innovation and creativity in seeking ICT solutions to organizational challenges and in business processes to facilitate efficient and effective trade transactions; and
• Ensure effective disaster management and recovery strategies and policies are in place; Contacts

(i) Internal:

• General Manager, Operations; and
• All Heads of Departments.

(ii) External

• The Electronic Single Window System Vendor;
• Other Government Bodies/Agencies using the NESWS;
• Relevant Government Ministries;
• Kenya ICT Board;
• ICT Consultants ; and
• Suppliers of ICT hardware and Software.

Job Specifications

A: Minimum Academic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, IT, Engineering or Information Systems from a recognized University; and
• 2. Master’s Degree in any of the above disciplines is an added advantage.

B: Professional Qualifications

• Post-graduate diploma in ICT or a relevant discipline;
• IT Management Certification in hardware or software (MCSE, MCCP, ITIL, Prince, PMP and/or, CISA) from a recognized body; and
• Proficiency in leading edge computing technology, programming, and practical knowledge of Oracle and SQL databases.

C: Membership

• Membership to relevant ICT professional bodies;

D: Work Experience

• At least 10 years’ working experience in a relevant ICT environment.

E: Other Skills and Personal Attributes Required

• Knowledge of Government Information System (GIS), MS SQL, or Oracle DBA Architecture;
• Knowledge of a Quality management systems (ISO) is desirable;
• Knowledge in Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) management;
• Self-motivated, organized and efficient individual;
• Ability to work in a team environment and motivate employees under him; and
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Head of Procurement

Job Description

Job Title : Head of Procurement
Location : Head Office
Department : Procurement
Reporting To : General Manager – Support Services
Supervises : Procurement Officer

Purpose of the Job

Responsible for the efficient and effective management of the supply chain function in the Agency while ensuring good governance practices and compliance to the Public Procurement regulations. 

This includes procurement of goods works and services, disposal of obsolete unserviceable and surplus stores, inventory management and contract management; coordinating all procurement activities thereof and coordinating the internal monitoring and evaluation of the supply chain function.

Main Tasks and Responsibilities

• Development, facilitation, implementation, monitoring & review of procurement plans;
• Developing and streamlining the procurement function in line with and in compliance with Public Procurement Act 2005;
• Providing leadership and ensuring efficient and effective management of staff and resources in the procurement function;
• Coordinating the preparation of tenders for advertisement ,opening and evaluation;
• Developing mechanisms and tools to monitor expenditure and spearhead cost reduction in the procurement initiatives in all divisions in the Agency by implementing cost effective inventory holding levels;
• Formulating a sourcing strategy for services and product purchases in accordance with market trends and the Agency’s budgetary limits;
• Developing procurement targets and a forecasted procurement plans that will be integrated in the annual budget to facilitate local and international purchases;
• Adopting a total cost of ownership approach in the development and evaluation of all materials in the tendering process;
• Maximizing staff performance through setting of objectives, appraisals, review and feedback;
• Coordinating preparation of the Agency’s Annual Procurement Plans;
• Preparing and submitting to the PPOA Quarterly procurement plans as required; and
• Act as the Secretary to the Corporation Tender Committee and the Disposal Committee.

Contacts

(i) Internal:

• Board Members;
• Chief Executive Officer; and
• Heads of Department.

(ii) External:

• Relevant Government Officers; and
• Relevant Statutory bodies;

Job Specifications

A: Minimum Academic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce, Supply Chain Management, Economics, Business Administration, Operations Management or a relevant field from an accredited University;
• Masters Degree in Business Administration Accounting, Finance or economics; and
• Post Graduate Diploma in Procurement/Supply Chain Management.

B: Professional Qualifications

• Post-graduate diploma in Procurement.

C. Membership

• Membership to a relevant professional body.

D: Work Experience

• At least ten (10) years’ experience in procurement, seven (7) of which should be at senior management level in a large Public Service/Private Sector

E: Other Skills and Personal Attributes Required

• Demonstrated ability to drive organizational value through the implementation of appropriate and diligent organizational procurement practices;
• Demonstrated personal integrity ,and problem solving, analytical, attention to essential detail ,planning and organizing skills;
• Excellent presentation ,oral and written communication skills;
• Familiarity with the Public Procurement Act;
• Ability to make critical and timely decisions in a highly sensitive environment;
• Willingness and ability to work long hours under stretch targets in a fast paced working environment;
• Excellent interpersonal, presentation, oral and written communication; and
• Must be computer literate and able to work with relevant procurement applications.

Applications clearly indicating the position applied for and attaching a detailed CV, copies of certificates and testimonials must reach us not later than Monday 14th May 2012, and should be addressed to:-

The Executive Search, Selection & Placement Division
Eliud &Associates (E&A)
4th Floor - Consolidated Bank House, Koinange Street
P.O. Box 9483-00100 Nairobi
Tel: 020-2243623/5

Applications can also be sent electronically to: eliud@eliudassociates.co.ke