Deputy Vice Chancellor Research, Innovation and Development at Great Lakes University of Kisumu

The Deputy Vice-chancellor (Research, Innovation and Development) shall assist the Vice Chancellor carry out the research, innovation and development function of the University.

Key Responsibilities

• Enhance the University’s research profile, its research performance and its culture of research excellence, innovation and quality research training;
• Identify niche areas of research in which the university has the potential to be an international leader;
• Foster (in consultation with the VC) collaborations and partnerships with government, industry and the research community in Kenya, the region and globally to deliver quality research and innovation projects that have greatest impact on policy, practice and community life;
• Provide strategic and creative leadership in advancing research, innovation and development agenda of the university;
• Develop and oversee implementation of the University Research, Innovation and Development Plan
• Develop and implement comprehensive resource mobilization strategies and lead fundraising fforts to secure grants, sponsorships, and other sources of funding to advance the University\'s research, innovation, and development programme
• Support faculty, researchers, and graduate students in identifying funding opportunities, preparing grant proposals, and disseminating research findings through publications and presentations.
• Enhance and coordinate joint University-Industry-Community initiatives to strengthen the multiple functional responsibilities of teaching, research and development;
• Collaborate with senior leadership, academic departments, and external partners to align research, innovation, and development activities with the University\'s mission, vision, purpose, core values, and strategic plan.
• Create and maintain collaboration and linkages locally and internationally for research and innovation programmes by cultivating relationships with alumni, donors, foundations, corporations, and other stakeholders in line with the University\'s mission and vision.
• Develop and maintain research infrastructure, facilities, and resources to support the needs of faculty, researchers, and students engaged in research activities across diverse disciplines.
• Facilitate the dissemination and communication of research findings through publications, presentations, conferences, and other scholarly activities, as well as engaging with policymakers, practitioners, and the public to translate research into practice.
• Cultivate an innovation ecosystem within the university by supporting entrepreneurship, startup incubation, and technology commercialization efforts among students, faculty, and staff.
• Monitor and evaluate the performance and impact of research, innovation, and development initiatives, and identifying opportunities for continuous improvement and excellence; and
• Perform any other duties that may be delegated or assigned to him/her by the ViceChancellor, University Management and the Senate.

Qualification & Competencies Required

• Have an earned PhD degree from a University recognized in Kenya
• Be a Professor or Associate Professor of a recognized University in Kenya
• Have at least ten (10) years’ experience in Senior Management positions
• A minimum of eight (8) years spent in a supervisory/leadership role within an institution of higher learning.
• Strong collaborative and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective partnerships and work collaboratively with faculty, staff, students, and external stakeholders.
• vibrant networking individual, understanding organization development skills entrepreneurial acumen and business process re-engineering competencies;
  • Ability to develop and communicate a clear vision for Research, Innovation and development that aligns with the institution\'s purpose, vision, value and strategic priorities;
  • Capacity for innovative thinking and problem-solving with a focus on fostering creativity, entrepreneurship and continuous improvement within the University;
  • Need to be conversant of patent law and protocols in Kenya
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to articulate complex ideas, influence stakeholders, and represent the institution effectively to internal and external audiences.
  • Proficiency in data analysis and evidence-based decision-making, with the ability to use data to assess performance, identify trends, and inform strategic actions;
  • High ethical standards and integrity, with a commitment to upholding integrity, ethical conduct, and the mission of the institution.
  • Should have published extensively in recognized referred journals.
  • Demonstrated evidence of innovative and creative leadership in areas of Research, Innovation and development.
  • Demonstrate evidence of current strategic partnerships and networks
  • Provide evidence of leadership research, network and ability to attract funds to the University;
  • Should have a good understanding of legal framework, policies and regulations governing University education in Kenya;
  • Demonstrated leadership experience in financial management and budget oversight, preferably within institution of higher learning.
  • Be registered with, and be an active member of professional associations in the profession (Where applicable)
  • Fulfil the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010.