Director Social Development and Governance

Role Overview\n\nThe Director of Social Development and Governance at the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA) is a high-level strategic leadership position. This role is responsible for directing the Directorate's research agenda, providing technical and public policy advice to national stakeholders, and ensuring the quality and impact of the Institute's programs. The Director leads high-performing teams to deliver research outputs that support evidence-based policy formulation in Kenya.\n\n### Key Responsibilities\n\n* Research and Policy Leadership: Oversee the delivery of research-oriented outputs and provide technical advice on public policy research and analysis to various stakeholders.\n* Strategic Management: Spearhead the timely preparation, implementation, and monitoring of annual work plans, budgets, and performance management frameworks for the Directorate.\n* Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain effective relationships with policymakers, implementers, development partners, and research institutions; steer corporate consultation and public participation.\n* Governance and Accountability: Oversee risk management, internal controls, and the implementation of corporate governance principles and corruption prevention strategies.\n* Resource Mobilization: Lead resource mobilization efforts and coordinate the execution of partnership activities in line with the Institute’s priorities.\n* Team Leadership: Supervise, coach, and mentor staff to build a motivated and high-performing team, fostering a culture of ethical practices and continuous improvement.\n* Quality Control: Oversee quality control processes for research outputs to ensure alignment with the Institute’s mandate and strategic objectives.\n* Operational Oversight: Manage the Directorate’s procurement and assets disposal plans and supervise the preparation of quarterly and annual reports for management and donors.\n\n### Requirements and Qualifications\n\n* Experience: At least fifteen (15) years of cumulative service, with a minimum of three (3) years at the Grade of Deputy Director Policy Analyst / Senior Principal Policy Analyst or a comparable relevant position.\n* Education: PhD, Master’s, and Bachelor’s degrees in Economics, Statistics, Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Public Policy, Development Studies, Law, Engineering, Geo-Spatial Information Science, Urban Planning, Gender, Nutrition, Food Science, International Relations, Political Science, Public Administration, International Affairs, Social Policy, Public Health, Public Finance, Environmental Studies, or related social sciences from a recognized institution.\n* Publications: At least six (6) publications in peer-reviewed journals, books, or book chapters, and ten (10) published research papers or reports.\n* Certification: Completion of a leadership course lasting not less than four (4) weeks from a recognized institution.\n* Competencies: Proven leadership, strategic management, analytical, and negotiation skills, along with proficiency in economic modelling and statistical software.\n\n### How to Apply\n\nInterested and qualified candidates should apply online through the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA) recruitment portal at https://recruitment.kippra.or.ke. Candidates can also find the application link at https://www.myjobmag.co.ke/apply-now/1191705. Ensure applications are submitted before the deadline on April 21, 2026.