Head of Legal Services

Job Purpose:

• To deputize the Corporation Secretary in managing the legal function, with particular focus on supervising principal officers and ensuring seamless delivery of legal services across all organizational units.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the daily operations of the legal department and coordinate workflow among principal officers.
• Review and quality-assure all legal opinions, contracts, and pleadings before submission to the Director.
• Represent the organization in appellate court matters and complex alternative dispute resolution processes.
• Supervise the development and maintenance of standardized legal templates and documentation systems.
• Coordinate legal research on emerging jurisprudence affecting government operations.
• Monitor compliance with court orders and implement enforcement strategies where required.
• Develop and implement performance metrics for the legal department’s service delivery.
• Lead interdepartmental teams in addressing cross-cutting legal issues affecting operations.
• Handle escalated legal matters from principal officers and provide expert guidance.
• Conduct regular training sessions for legal staff on public sector legal practice.
• Prepare comprehensive reports on legal matters for submission to oversight bodies.
• Manage relationships with external counsel and government legal agencies.
• Oversee the legal aspects of organizational projects and special initiatives.
• Maintain an updated register of all active litigation and potential legal exposures.
• Deputize the Corporation Secretary in board committee meetings and high-level engagements.

Person Specification

• Masters of Law (LL.M) degree or equivalent qualification from a recognized institution;
• Bachelor of Law (LL. B) degree qualification from a recognized university;
• Post-graduate Diploma in Law;
• Advocate of the High Court of Kenya in good standing;
• At least ten (10) years’ work experience three (3) years of which should been at a senior management level;
• Valid Advocates Practicing Certificate;
• Member of the Institute of Public Secretaries in good standing will be an added advantage;
• Leadership course lasting not less than four (4) weeks;
• Possess high levels of integrity, ethical standards and professionalism;
• Fulfilled requirements of Chapter Six of the constitution;

Key Competencies and Skills

• Interpersonal and communication skills
• Analytical and negotiation skills
• Attention to detail and critical thinking
• Innovative
• Strategic planning and problem-solving
• Leadership and Management skills