Deputy Director, Investment & Portfolio Management

Kenya National Entrepreneurs Savings Trust (KNEST) is a unique national informal sector pension scheme established by the Government to meet the unique needs of the more than 15 million marginalized informal sector workers. The Scheme is seeking a Deputy Director, Investment & Portfolio Management to lead its fund management operations.

Role Overview

The Deputy Director, Investment & Portfolio Management is responsible for overseeing the development of policies, regulations, guidelines, and strategies for fund management. This senior role involves managing the Scheme’s investment plans, recommending strategic investment opportunities to the Trustees, and establishing links with strategic financial partners. The position holder provides leadership in analyzing business performance and industry trends to ensure that investment portfolios align with statutory guidelines and KNEST’s strategic objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the development of policies, regulations, guidelines, and strategies for fund management.
• Oversee the development of the Scheme’s investment plans and strategy.
• Recommend strategic investments opportunities to the Trustees.
• Establish linkages with strategic financial partners and meet regularly with investment analysts to discuss opportunities.
• Provide leadership in analyzing business performance, industry trends, and the impact of new regulatory requirements on operations.
• Lead investment negotiations and ensure portfolios align with statutory guidelines and KNEST’s strategic objectives.
• Ensure the undertaking of Portfolio and Investment Research.
• Advise the Trustees on diverse investment options and potential opportunities.
• Coordinate the acquisition and management of Scheme Investment to increase value and ensure best returns.
• Set criteria and conditions governing investment.
• Ensure maintenance of proper investment records for all securities and prepare periodic portfolio performance reports.
• In liaison with the Fund Manager, ensure preparation and filing of all statutory reports.
• Manage and develop staff in the department and ensure prudent utilization of resources.

Person Specifications and Qualifications

• Served for a minimum period of ten (10) years, with at least four (4) years in a management role.
• Bachelor’s degree in Commerce (Finance), Finance, Economics, Business Management (Finance option), or equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.
• Master’s degree in Commerce (Finance), Finance, Economics, Business Administration (Finance option), or equivalent qualification.
• Passed Part III of the Certified Public Accountants (CPA K) examination or equivalent.
• Certificate in a 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 (Integrity and Leadership).
• Demonstrated professional and managerial competence in finance and accounts functions.

Key Competencies and Skills

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Teamwork and leadership skills.
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Effective negotiation and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.

How to Apply

Applicants who meet the above requirements should submit their applications, including an application letter accompanied by a detailed curriculum vitae that lists 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 of the position (REF KNEST/FMA/001/26) on the cover letter and submit electronically to recruitment@knest.go.ke no later than Tuesday, April 14, 2026, 5.00 pm EAT.

Successful candidates will be required to obtain clearance documents from the DCI (Good Conduct), KRA (Tax Compliance), HELB, EACC, and CRB.