Are you a seasoned legal professional looking for an opportunity to make a national impact? Do you have a passion for public service and the rule of law? The Kenya National Innovation Agency (KENIA) invites qualified and committed individuals to apply for the position of Principal Legal Officer, Job Grade KENIA 4.
This is a permanent and pensionable position that offers a unique chance to contribute to the agency’s legal and policy framework while safeguarding its interests in all legal affairs. If you have the required experience, skills, and legal knowledge, we welcome your application.
About the Agency
The Kenya National Innovation Agency (KENIA) is tasked with developing and managing the national innovation system. The Agency plays a central role in fostering innovation, supporting knowledge transfer, and enhancing the country’s competitiveness. KENIA’s legal team ensures compliance with legal frameworks, advises the agency on all legal matters, and represents it in litigation and other legal engagements.
To strengthen its legal team and uphold the rule of law in its operations, the Agency is seeking to fill the following position:
Position: Principal Legal Officer
Job Grade: KENIA 4
Terms of Service: Permanent
Application Deadline: 7 May, 2025
Job Description
As a Principal Legal Officer, the successful candidate will be responsible for leading and coordinating legal services and ensuring that the Agency operates within the boundaries of national and international legal frameworks. This role demands a high level of professionalism, leadership, and legal acumen.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
- Preparation and Review of Legal Documents: Draft, review, and ensure the accuracy and legal soundness of all legal instruments and documents, including contracts, leases, and memoranda.
- Legal Opinions and Briefs: Prepare comprehensive legal briefs and provide authoritative opinions on a wide range of legal matters affecting the Agency.
- Legal Research: Conduct in-depth legal research on emerging and complex legal issues, offering evidence-based recommendations.
- Policy Formulation and Review: Identify gaps in existing policies and participate in the formulation and review of new legal and regulatory policies to enhance the Agency’s compliance.
- Compliance Oversight: Ensure that the Agency’s operations comply with the Constitution of Kenya, relevant statutes, and regulatory frameworks.
- Advisory Services: Advise the Agency’s leadership and departments on all legal issues and implications relating to strategy, operations, and governance.
- Litigation Management: Represent the Agency in court and other legal forums or coordinate external legal representation to safeguard the interests of the Agency.
- Liaison with Government Bodies: Collaborate with the Office of the Attorney General and other relevant institutions on legal matters pertaining to the Agency.
- Records Management: Oversee the safe custody and confidentiality of the Agency’s legal records and documents.
- Team Leadership and Performance Management: Supervise junior legal staff, coordinate the legal department’s work plans, and oversee performance evaluations.
Requirements for Appointment
To be considered for appointment to this role, an applicant must meet the following criteria:
- Work Experience:
A minimum of eight (8) years of relevant legal work experience, at least three (3) of which must be at the level of Senior Officer or its equivalent in a reputable organization. - Academic Qualifications:
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Law (LLB) from a recognized institution.
- A Master’s Degree in Law (LLM) from a recognized institution.
- Professional Training:
- A Postgraduate Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law.
- Leadership & Management:
- A Certificate in Management Course from a recognized institution.
- Professional Registration:
- Must be a registered member of a recognized professional legal body in Kenya.
- Computer Proficiency:
- Demonstrated ability to use computer applications relevant to the legal field.
- Professional Competence:
- Proven managerial and administrative capabilities, as well as a track record of professional competence and result-oriented legal work.
- Integrity Requirements:
- Must satisfy the provisions of Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya (2010), which includes integrity, leadership, and public trust qualifications.
Why Work With KENIA?
At KENIA, we are driven by innovation, guided by integrity, and committed to national development. Joining the team means becoming part of a transformative institution that seeks to make Kenya a globally competitive knowledge-based economy.
Working at KENIA offers:
- A dynamic and collaborative work environment.
- Opportunities for professional growth and leadership.
- Exposure to high-impact national projects.
- A platform to shape policy and legal frameworks that support innovation.
Equal Opportunity Employer
KENIA is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified persons including persons with disabilities, women, youth, and individuals from marginalized regions are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit their applications on or before 7 May, 2025.
Applications must include the following:
- A detailed and updated CV
- Copies of academic and professional certificates
- National ID or Passport copy
- Cover letter stating why you are the right fit for this role
- Names and contact details of at least three (3) referees
