Deputy Director Legal Services at Kenya Space Agency

Job Purpose

• The holder of the position shall be responsible for overseeing the design, implementation and review of the laws, rules, codes, regulations and standards at the Agency. The holder also guides the Board on governance matters and ensures the Agency’s governance framework is properly designed, implemented and maintained. In addition, the jobholder shall maintain all legal documents, reports and records as prescribed by law.

Remuneration

• Salary Scale: Ksh 179,093 – Ksh 232,821 p.m.
• House Allowance: Ksh 45,000 p.m.
• Commuter Allowances: Ksh 12,000 p.m.
• Leave: 30 days per year
• Medical Cover: Comprehensive medical cover in accordance with existing KSA HR Policy and Procedures Manual, and Terms and Conditions of Service.
• Terms of Service: Three (3) year Contract; eligible for renewal for a further 3 years of service based on Satisfactory Performance and Competence.
• Probationary Period: The new appointee will serve an initial six-month probationary period, and will only be confirmed in their substantive positions following satisfactory performance during the period.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Master of Law (LLM) Degree or equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.
• Bachelor of Law (LL. B) Degree or equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.
• Postgraduate Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law.
• Been admitted as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya.
• Current Advocates Practicing Certificate.
• Certified Secretary (CPS K).
• Member of the Institute of Certified Public Secretaries of Kenya (ICPS (K))
• Member of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK).
• Valid practicing license from Law Society of Kenya.
• Demonstrable knowledge of International Space Law, Governance and Policy Frameworks is desirable and will be an added advantage.
• Certificate of Completion of a Senior Management Course (or equivalent) lasting not less than four (4) weeks from a recognized institution.

Previous relevant work experience required

• At least ten (10) years working experience in public and private sector, four (4) of which must have been in a management position.

 Key Tasks/Responsibilities

• Serve as the principal legal advisor to the Agency Board and management on all matters including contractual and statutory obligations, as well as corporate governance matters.
• Oversee legal policy development and strategic advisory, including formulation and review of legal frameworks, rules, regulations, codes and standards; conducting legal research; and advising on emerging issues.
• Manage corporate legal and governance documentation, including Board secretariat support, legal budgets, Board calendars, and protection of the Agency’s intellectual property.
• Provide comprehensive legal services, including investigation, drafting, interpretation, and review of contracts, legal instruments, and regulatory compliance matters.
• Lead legal representation and litigation management, including coordination with the Attorney General, external advocates, and law enforcement agencies.
• Assist the Board in carrying out Board induction and training; updating the Board and Committee Charters; Preparation of Board Work Plans; Board Evaluation; Governance Audit; and implementation of the code of conduct and ethics.
• Ensure timely preparation and circulation of Board and Board Committee Papers, as well as timely recording and circulation of Board and Committee minutes.
• Oversee the drafting, vetting, implementation and review of legal agreements and contracts in liaison with relevant Directorates, Departments, and Sections.
• Ensure the Agency complies with statutory and other legal requirements.
• Coordinate the preparation and publication of legal notices and any other gazettement.
• Facilitate effective communication between the organization and the shareholders.
• Ensure that regular returns are promptly filed with relevant authorities.
• Maintenance of the Agency’s Asset registers.
• Coordinate stakeholder engagements in consultation with the Director General / Chief Executive Officer.
• Institute and coordinate alternative dispute resolution mechanisms where necessary.
• Institute regular governance, legal and compliance audits of the Agency as necessary.
• Record and maintain committee minutes, and ensure maintenance of accurate and official records of committee deliberations and decisions.
• Maintain and update the register of conflicts of interest, tracking disclosures and ensuring compliance with ethical standards.
• Ensure that Agency members are aware of all relevant laws affecting the organization, through timely updates and legal briefings.
• Except in exceptional circumstances, ensure that Agency and Committee papers are circulated in advance of any meeting, to promote informed discussion and decision-making.
• Coordinate litigations for the Agency, including liaising with external counsel, managing case files, and overseeing legal proceedings.
• Prepare all contracts for the Agency in accordance with established legal frameworks and organizational requirements.
• Act as custodian of all contracts, maintaining secure and organized records of legal agreements.
• Advise on the fixing of the common seal outside registration, ensuring compliance with legal procedures and internal policies.

Functional skills

• Leadership Skills
• Decision making skills
• Analytical skills
• Communication skills
• Problem solving skills
• Negotiation skills
• Organizational skills
• Proficiency in computer applications

Behavioural Skills

• Demonstrated results in work performance.
• Demonstrated ability to mobilize resources
• Ability to work under pressure
• Time management
• Interpersonal skills
• Visionary and innovative thinking
• Attention to detail
• Target setting