Kenya National Entrepreneurs Savings Trust (KNEST) is a unique national informal sector pension scheme established by the Government to meet the unique needs of more than 15 million marginalized informal sector workers. KNEST is seeking a Deputy Director for Investment & Portfolio Management to lead strategic fund management and pension administration initiatives. An officer at this level may be deployed in either the Investment & Portfolio Management or Pension Administration functional areas.
Responsibilities
Investment & Portfolio Management
- Oversee the development of policies, regulations, guidelines, and strategies for fund management.
- Oversee the development of the Scheme’s investment plans and strategy and ensure implementation compliance.
- Recommend strategic investment opportunities to Trustees and establish linkages with financial partners.
- Provide leadership in analyzing business performance, industry trends, and regulatory impacts.
- Lead investment negotiations and ensure prudent management of all portfolios aligned with statutory guidelines.
- Undertake Portfolio and Investment Research and liaise with service providers (fund managers, custodians, project developers).
- Ensure maintenance of proper investment records and prepare periodic performance and statutory reports.
- Coordinate the acquisition and management of Scheme Investments to increase value and ensure best returns.
Pension Administration
- Oversee the development and implementation of pension administration policies, strategies, and procedures.
- Provide leadership in daily administrative affairs in accordance with the Retirement Benefits Act, Income Tax Act, and Scheme Trust Deed.
- Maintain accurate data of Scheme assets, service providers, members, and beneficiaries.
- Ensure continuous update of member records, account postings on contribution receipt, and distribution of accrued benefits.
- Facilitate daily reconciliation of member statements and prepare audited accounts in liaison with auditors.
- Organize the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and ensure comprehensive documentation for claims processing.
- Manage and develop departmental staff while ensuring prudent utilization of resources.
Requirements
- Served for a minimum period of ten (10) years, four (4) of which shall be in a management role.
- Bachelor’s degree in Commerce (Finance option), Finance, Economics, Business Management (Finance option) or equivalent qualification.
- Master’s degree in Commerce (Finance Option), Finance, Economics, Business Administration (Finance Option) or equivalent qualification.
- Passed Part III of the Certified Public Accountants (CPA K) examination or equivalent qualification.
- Certificate in Leadership/Governance course from a recognized institution.
- Active membership with a relevant professional body.
- Proficiency in computer applications.
- Must meet the requirements of Chapter six of the Constitution of Kenya.
- Demonstrated professional and managerial competence in finance and accounts functions.
Key Competencies and Skills
- Strong leadership and negotiation skills.
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
- Organizational and time management skills.
- Teamwork and decisive decision-making.
How to Apply
Applicants should submit an application letter accompanied by a detailed CV listing three (3) professional referees, daytime telephone contacts, email address, copies of certified academic and professional certificates, testimonials, and a copy of the National Identity Card or Passport.
All applications should quote the title and reference number KNEST/FMA/002/26 on the cover letter not later than Tuesday, April 14, 2026, 5.00 pm EAT and be submitted electronically to recruitment@knest.go.ke.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Successful candidates must obtain clearance from DCI (Good Conduct), KRA, HELB, EACC, and CRB.
