Kisii University has announced an opportunity for qualified candidates to apply for the position of Chief Medical Officer. This role is situated within the Medical Services Department and plays a critical part in overseeing the health services provided to staff and their families. The position is advertised under reference number KSU/AD/APF/MED/01/09/25.
The University seeks an individual with demonstrated experience and competence in medical leadership, hospital administration, and patient-centered care delivery. The Chief Medical Officer will be expected to provide both strategic leadership and direct medical expertise, ensuring that health services within the University align with professional standards, organizational goals, and regulatory requirements.
The successful candidate will report directly to the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration, Planning and Finance) and will serve in Job Group Grade 15. Only one vacancy is available. Applications close on 23rd September 2025.
Overview of the Role
The Chief Medical Officer is the most senior medical position at Kisii University, responsible for the coordination, management, and supervision of all health services provided within the University. The role is designed for a professional with a strong background in clinical medicine as well as administrative expertise in health service management.
The officer will oversee a diverse range of responsibilities that include direct medical care, supervision of health staff, policy formulation, quality assurance, and participation in strategic planning. Furthermore, the officer is expected to provide mentorship and training to other health personnel while ensuring that the University’s medical services operate efficiently and effectively.
This role is not limited to administrative oversight. The Chief Medical Officer will also be actively involved in diagnosis, treatment, counseling, and conducting medical and surgical procedures where necessary. The dual requirement for leadership and hands-on medical service delivery makes this position both dynamic and impactful.
Duties and Responsibilities
An officer appointed to this position will take on a comprehensive set of duties designed to maintain high-quality medical care within the University. The scope of work combines leadership, patient care, health education, training, policy implementation, and operational management.
Leadership and Supervision
The Chief Medical Officer will be in charge of health services and will exercise overall supervision of health personnel in the University. This supervisory role requires the officer to ensure that all medical staff are aligned with organizational objectives, patient care standards, and ethical practices.
The officer will also participate in the annual appraisal of staff members within the department, ensuring that performance evaluations are fair, transparent, and contribute to professional development. The position carries the responsibility of leading by example, mentoring junior staff, and creating an environment that fosters continuous improvement in health service delivery.
Service Delivery and Patient Care
A central responsibility of this role is ensuring the smooth delivery of healthcare services to employees of the University and their families. The officer will not only coordinate care but will also participate directly in diagnosing, caring for, and treating diseases.
In addition, the officer will provide counseling services to patients and their relatives. This includes offering guidance on diagnoses, treatment options, and providing bereavement counseling where necessary. The role demands empathy, professionalism, and the ability to communicate complex medical information in an understandable way.
The Chief Medical Officer will also perform medical and surgical procedures as required, ensuring that staff and their families have access to a wide range of healthcare services without unnecessary referrals.
Resource and Operational Management
The officer will be responsible for the management of resources for the operation of medical services. This includes overseeing the procurement and management of medicines, medical instruments, and equipment.
The officer will prepare the department’s annual budget and procurement plan. Effective resource allocation will be critical in ensuring that the University’s health services operate within budget while maintaining high standards of patient care.
Furthermore, the officer will ensure that medical records, health information, and data are accurately maintained. This is vital for continuity of care, accountability, and compliance with relevant regulatory frameworks.
Health Education and Preventive Care
Beyond treatment, the officer will provide health education and implement control measures for preventable diseases and injuries. Promoting wellness and preventive healthcare is essential in reducing the incidence of disease among staff and their families.
The officer will also take part in counseling and training initiatives, equipping staff with the knowledge and skills to manage health risks and adopt healthier lifestyles. Both formal and informal training programs will be facilitated to improve the competence of health personnel in the University’s Medical Department.
Care Coordination and Quality Assurance
The Chief Medical Officer will lead and actively participate in the care coordination program. This includes monitoring the appropriateness of consultations, diagnostic procedures, and the utilization of resources.
Additionally, the officer will be responsible for leading all initiatives related to patient safety, quality, infection control, and risk management. Ethics and patient service will be integral to this role, ensuring that medical services adhere to both professional and institutional standards.
The officer will also conduct internal audit quality checks at the health unit, ensuring compliance with established protocols and identifying areas for improvement. These audits will play a central role in maintaining a culture of accountability and excellence in healthcare delivery.
Emergency Preparedness and Response
Another critical function of this role is preparing for and responding to emergencies and disasters. The officer will ensure that the University’s medical services are well-equipped to handle both internal and external emergencies, including natural disasters, disease outbreaks, and workplace accidents.
Strategic Planning and Policy Implementation
The Chief Medical Officer will prepare, implement, and review the department’s strategic plan and annual work plan. This long-term vision ensures that the Medical Department aligns with the broader objectives of Kisii University.
The officer will also ensure conformance to the requirements of management systems in line with ISO certification standards. Processes will be aligned to ensure they deliver the intended outputs of the management system.
Academic and Professional Requirements
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in a relevant medical field from a recognized institution, along with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery. A minimum of four years’ experience as Deputy Chief Medical Officer is required.
Applicants must also be registered by a relevant professional body and hold a valid practicing license. Candidates must have shown merit and ability as reflected in their work performance and results.
A Senior Management Course and/or Strategic Leadership course will be considered an added advantage.
Application Procedure
Applicants are required to provide comprehensive details of their educational and professional qualifications, work experience, current position, and salary. Contact information, including telephone number and e-mail address, must also be provided.
A cover letter and copies of academic certificates and testimonials should be enclosed. Applicants must also include the names and addresses of three referees who are familiar with their professional competence in the area of specialization.
Both applicants and referees should write directly to:
The Vice-Chancellor
Kisii University
P. O. Box 408 – 40200
Kisii
Applications and letters from referees must be received no later than 23rd September 2025.
For further details regarding job specifications and general requirements, applicants are advised to visit the official University website: www.kisiiuniversity.ac.ke
Kisii University is an equal opportunity employer. Women and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification.
