Premier Bank Kenya, a reputable and progressive institution, is pleased to announce a rewarding opportunity for a qualified and dynamic professional to join our Nairobi Head Office as Head of Shari’ah. This senior role offers a unique chance to influence Islamic banking operations, contribute to the organization’s strategic goals, and work closely with the Shari’ah Supervisory Board (SSB) to ensure Shari’ah compliance across all bank operations.
If you’re passionate about Islamic finance, driven by integrity, and thrive in leadership roles that demand both analytical and interpersonal excellence, this could be the career move for you.
Position: Head of Shari’ah
Location: Head Office, Nairobi
Category: Manager
Type: Full-Time
Application Deadline: April 30, 2025
Job Summary
The Head of Shari’ah is responsible for ensuring that all transactions and operations conducted by the Bank are fully compliant with Shari’ah principles. The successful candidate will lead the Shari’ah Audit Department, develop compliance frameworks, coordinate closely with the Shari’ah Supervisory Board (SSB), and provide expert consultation and training to internal stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
The Head of Shari’ah will undertake a broad range of strategic, advisory, and operational duties, including but not limited to:
- Departmental Leadership:
Take charge as the Head of the Shari’ah Audit Department, effectively planning, organizing, and supervising all departmental functions. - Board Liaison and Coordination:
Act as the official secretary to the Shari’ah Supervisory Board. This includes preparing for meetings, ensuring timely communication, and acting as a liaison between the board and the bank’s departments. - Reporting and Documentation:
Prepare and present quarterly Shari’ah audit status reports to both the Shari’ah Supervisory Board and the Board of Directors. Maintain accurate and updated documentation of all board resolutions and decisions. - Compliance Enforcement:
Oversee the implementation of all Shari’ah-related policies and procedures across the Bank’s branches, departments, and affiliates, ensuring full adherence to the decisions of the SSB. - System Development:
Design and develop internal Shari’ah control systems to assess and reinforce the adequacy of compliance measures and their alignment with Bank policies. - Budget Management:
Lead the preparation and execution of the annual budget for the Shari’ah Audit Unit, ensuring cost-effective operations within set financial limits. - Consultation Services:
Offer expert Shari’ah advisory services to the Bank’s Board of Directors, senior management, and various departments to support sound decision-making aligned with Islamic banking principles. - Staff Training and Development:
Facilitate regular training and awareness programs on Islamic banking principles for the Bank’s staff to build a knowledgeable and compliant workforce. - Policy and Manual Development:
Formulate and periodically update comprehensive policies, guidelines, and manuals for Shari’ah compliance, ensuring clarity and accessibility for all stakeholders. - Additional Duties:
Take on any other responsibilities that may be reasonably assigned in the interest of enhancing the Bank’s Shari’ah compliance and operational effectiveness.
Requirements
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Shari’ah Law is required.
- Master’s degree in a related field is an added advantage.
- Certification in Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI) such as Certified Shari’ah Adviser and Auditor (CSAA) is highly preferred.
- Professional qualifications in Banking or Finance are a plus.
- Minimum of five (5) years’ relevant experience in a similar position within a financial institution, preferably one that offers Shari’ah-compliant products.
- Proven track record in managing compliance and delivering results in a fast-paced environment.
Competencies and Attributes:
- Leadership: A strategic thinker with proven leadership skills, able to inspire, manage, and grow high-performing teams.
- Shari’ah Expertise: Strong understanding and practical application of Shari’ah law, particularly within the context of Islamic finance and banking.
- Compliance Acumen: Thorough knowledge of the Banking Act, Central Bank regulations, and relevant CBK Prudential Guidelines.
- Communication: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal, to engage effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
- Analytical Thinking: Strong ability to analyze complex problems, interpret laws and regulations, and provide sound guidance.
- Customer Service Orientation: High commitment to providing professional support and advice to both clients and staff.
- Ethics & Integrity: Honest, dependable, and committed to the highest standards of professional conduct.
- Technological Proficiency: Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint) and digital communication tools.
Remuneration
The selected candidate will receive a competitive and negotiable remuneration package, commensurate with experience, qualifications, and the level of responsibility attached to the position. Specifics will be discussed with candidates shortlisted for the final stages of the selection process.
Why Join Premier Bank?
Premier Bank is an institution committed to providing cutting-edge Islamic banking solutions that adhere strictly to Shari’ah principles. We pride ourselves on fostering a professional environment that values innovation, integrity, inclusivity, and performance excellence. As Head of Shari’ah, you will be part of a forward-thinking team working to shape the future of ethical banking in Kenya.
How to Apply
If you believe you have what it takes to steer Shari’ah compliance at Premier Bank and meet the outlined qualifications and experience, we would love to hear from you.
To apply, send your CV only (no additional documents required at this stage) and indicate the job title in the subject line to:
[email protected]
Deadline for submission: April 30, 2025
