The Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA) is a government agency tasked with the oversight and regulation of national qualifications and ensuring that the qualifications align with global standards. The agency plays a critical role in transforming Kenya’s educational landscape by developing a robust national qualifications framework that allows for the smooth movement of individuals within and outside the education and employment sectors. As part of its commitment to achieving excellence, KNQA is seeking to fill the position of Deputy Director, Human Resource Management and Development. This is a senior role that will require a strategic leader to guide the agency in enhancing its human resource capabilities, implementing robust HR policies, and ensuring effective performance management systems. If you are a dynamic and experienced HR professional with a passion for public service and leadership, this could be the opportunity for you.
Position:
- Job Title: Deputy Director, Human Resource Management and Development
- Position Code: KNQA/No.1/2025-26
- Term: 5-Year Contract, renewable subject to performance and the Government retirement age.
- Position Level: KNQA 3
- Number of Positions: 1
- Deadline for Application: March 17, 2026
Key Responsibilities:
The Deputy Director of Human Resource Management and Development will be responsible for the development and implementation of human resource strategies, systems, policies, and regulations within the authority. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key responsibilities associated with this role:
- Formulation and Implementation of HR Strategies and Policies:
- Coordinating the formulation, implementation, and review of human resource strategies, policies, rules, regulations, and systems for the Authority.
- Ensuring that all human resource policies align with government regulations, labor laws, and best practices within the public sector.
- Compliance with HR Policies and Labor Laws:
- Ensuring compliance with all provisions of the HR policies, procedures, government circulars, and labor laws in the management of human resources.
- Regularly reviewing and updating HR policies and systems to reflect changes in legal frameworks and best practices.
- Staff Awareness and Training:
- Developing and conducting awareness programs for employees to ensure they are well-versed in the HR policies, laws, regulations, procedures, and government circulars.
- Preparing and implementing annual employee training and development programs to enhance the capacity of the workforce.
- Recruitment and Staffing:
- Coordinating job advertisements, long-listing, shortlisting, and the selection process for new hires.
- Overseeing the induction and orientation programs for new employees to ensure smooth onboarding processes.
- Employee Performance Management:
- Coordinating the preparation and moderation of employee performance appraisals to ensure consistent and fair evaluations.
- Developing, reviewing, and ensuring the implementation of performance management systems that drive accountability and results.
- Employee Relations and Disciplinary Processes:
- Managing employee disciplinary matters, grievances, and conflict resolution processes.
- Ensuring fair and transparent handling of grievances and disciplinary actions to maintain a harmonious working environment.
- Payroll Management and Statutory Deductions:
- Coordinating the processing of payroll and ensuring that statutory deductions are effected on time.
- Ensuring the accurate maintenance and updating of employee leave records and bio-data.
- Employee Welfare and Benefits Administration:
- Coordinating the management of employee benefits, including medical schemes, mortgage, car loans, and pension schemes.
- Organizing quarterly health and financial talks to promote employee well-being.
- Employee Separation:
- Overseeing the staff separation and clearance processes to ensure smooth exits from the organization.
- Coordinating the processing of retirement, resignation, or termination procedures in compliance with established policies.
- HR Reports and Record-Keeping:
- Coordinating the preparation of quarterly and annual reports on employee training, performance, leave administration, and other HR-related metrics.
- Maintaining accurate and up-to-date records on employee performance, leave balances, medical schemes, and other HR-related data.
- HR Advisory Support:
- Preparing files and providing administrative support for meetings related to human resource advisory committees and performance management committees.
- Annual HR Budget Preparation:
- Preparing and implementing the annual human resource budget and planning for all HR-related activities within the authority.
Job Specification:
For appointment to this grade, an Officer must possess the following qualifications, experience, and competencies:
- Educational Qualifications:
- A Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resource Management, Sociology, Business Administration, Public Administration, Commerce, or a related field from a recognized institution.
- A Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management, Sociology, Business Administration, Public Administration, Commerce, or a related field from a recognized institution.
- Work Experience:
- A minimum of ten (10) years of relevant work experience in human resource management, with at least four (4) years in a middle management role.
- Significant experience in HR policy formulation, performance management, and compliance with labor laws.
- Management Course:
- A Management course lasting no less than four (4) weeks from a recognized institution.
- Membership and Professional Certification:
- Membership with the Institute of Human Resource Management (IHRM) or equivalent professional body.
- Proven track record in managing HR functions and teams within the public sector or large institutions.
- Technical Competencies:
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and HR management systems.
- Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with the utmost integrity.
- Strong analytical, presentation, and public speaking skills.
- Personal Competencies:
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and lead HR teams.
- Knowledge of current trends in HR management and labor laws.
- Compliance:
- Must fulfill the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya (Integrity and Accountability).
Skills Required:
- Analytical Skills: The role requires an individual with the ability to analyze data and HR metrics to make informed decisions.
- Report Writing: Strong report-writing skills are essential for compiling HR reports and presenting findings to senior management.
- Public Speaking and Presentation Skills: The Deputy Director must be able to confidently present HR reports and policies to various stakeholders, including the board and other external partners.
- Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills are crucial for effective interaction with staff, management, and external bodies.
- Leadership and Team Management: The ability to lead HR teams, provide guidance, and ensure the efficient functioning of the HR department.
How to Apply:
If you meet the qualifications and are interested in this exciting opportunity, please submit your application by March 17, 2026. Applications should be made through the KNQA official website or submitted via the provided application link.
Note: All applications should include the following:
- A completed application form (available on the official website).
- A detailed curriculum vitae (CV) outlining your qualifications, work experience, and professional achievements.
- A cover letter expressing your interest in the role and how your skills align with the job requirements.
- Copies of relevant academic and professional certificates.
- Names and contact details of at least three professional referees.
Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the interview process. If you are submitting your application via email, do not include “Apply Now” at the end of your application.
We look forward to receiving your application and wish you the best in your career development with KNQA.
This job hiring advertisement serves as a comprehensive guide to the Deputy Director, Human Resource Management and Development position, outlining the job responsibilities, qualifications, skills, and the application process. Please make sure to follow the instructions and submit your application in the required format by the specified deadline.
