DEPUTY DIRECTOR – RESEARCH AND COMPLIANCE at Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR)

2. DEPUTY DIRECTOR – RESEARCH AND COMPLIANCE (KNCHR 3 / JOB GROUP R)

REF: KNCHR/ADM/DDRC/02/12/2025

Reports to: Director, Research, Advocacy and Outreach
Direct Reports: Assistant Director(s), Senior Research & Compliance Officers, Research & Compliance Officers
Duration: 5-Year Contract (Renewable)
Duty Station: Nairobi (with occasional travel)
Gross Salary: Kshs. 281,950
Other Benefits: Medical Cover, Group Life Insurance, WIBA

Job Purpose

This position leads and coordinates the development and implementation of policies, procedures, standards, strategies and programmes related to research and State compliance with national, regional and international human rights principles. The successful candidate will head the Research and Compliance Division within the Directorate of Research, Advocacy and Outreach.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Strategic & Leadership Responsibilities

a. Coordinate formulation, implementation and review of the Commission’s research and compliance policies, frameworks, strategies and standards.
b. Provide leadership in designing strategies for research, dissemination of findings and follow-up on implementation of Commission recommendations.
c. Lead the development and submission of periodic State of Human Rights reports and advisories at national, regional and international levels.
d. Guide the review of existing and proposed legislation and policies to integrate human rights standards.
e. Monitor, report and advise on Kenya’s compliance with international and regional human rights treaties.
f. Coordinate the Commission’s participation in regional and international human rights mechanisms including the African Commission, African Committee of Experts, UN Treaty Bodies, Human Rights Council, and engagements with special procedures.
g. Oversee development of monitoring charters on various human rights instruments based on concluding observations.
h. Provide leadership for the Commission’s monitoring obligations under Article 33 of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
i. Review and approve divisional outputs, processes and deliverables.
j. Lead resource mobilization for the Division’s thematic areas and oversee budgeting and reporting.
k. Supervise and implement human resource functions related to the Division including performance management.
l. Coordinate timely preparation of monthly, quarterly and annual divisional reports.
m. Coordinate establishment and strengthening of partnerships aligned to the Division’s mandate.

Operational Responsibilities

• Guide development of concepts, design and implementation of divisional strategies and activities as outlined in the Strategic Plan.

• Provide technical support in designing research tools and methodologies for public inquiries and other empirical exercises.

• Provide technical advice and oversee the Commission's participation in regional and international human rights fora as a National Human Rights Institution.

• Advise on mainstreaming disability rights within the Commission and across the Republic.

• Represent the Commission in high-level forums and committees with State and non-State actors.

• Devise and implement effective communication strategies for information flow within the Division and across the Commission.

• Provide direction in developing and implementing divisional work plans aligned to Directorate and institutional goals.

• Establish and sustain strategic partnerships and networks with stakeholders relevant to the Division.

• Review proposals and coordinate mobilization of resources for Commission programmes, including grant management and reporting.

• Track and manage the Division’s budget, expenditure and approvals.

• Oversee optimal utilization of financial and human resources for effective delivery of the Division’s mandate.

• Coordinate timely preparation of monthly, quarterly, annual, GoK, grants and other accountability reports.

Experience and Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Law, Social Sciences or other related disciplines from a recognized institution.

• Minimum eight (8) years’ experience, including at least three (3) years in a senior supervisory role.

• Strategic Leadership Development Programme certificate (minimum 6 weeks) from a recognized institution — mandatory.

Skills and Competencies

• Ability to build and lead cohesive teams

• Demonstrable leadership skills

• Strategic thinking and execution capability

• Ability to multitask and manage competing priorities

• Knowledge of project management cycle and public administration

• Experience in conceptualizing and leading research initiatives

• Knowledge in legislative review and policy formulation

• Strong data collection and analysis skills

• Legal analysis skills

• Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills

• Excellent written, oral, interpersonal and negotiation skills

• Proficient IT skills with working knowledge of relevant software

• Must meet the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya