Head of Strategic Litigation at MAL Consultancy

INTRODUCTION

Our client is a human rights non-governmental organization working to protect and promote health-related human rights in Kenya. They do this by providing legal services and support, training professionals on human rights, engaging in advocacy campaigns that promote awareness of human rights issues, conducting research, and influencing policy that promotes evidence-based change. Our client advocates for a holistic and rights-based system of delivery service in health and for the full enjoyment of the right to health by all, including the vulnerable, marginalized, and excluded populations in five thematic areas.

JOB SUMMARY

Our client is seeking to onboard a Head of Strategic Litigation (HSL). The Head of Strategic Litigation will be a visionary and results-driven Head of Strategic Litigation to lead and grow our Strategic Litigation Unit into a regional center of legal excellence. The ideal candidate will bring at least 10 years’ post-admission experience and a proven track record in strategic litigation at all levels of Kenya’s judiciary—including the High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court. The candidate will also contribute to the unit’s fundraising efforts, strengthen its operational capacity, and embed strategic litigation as a core lever for systemic change in health-related human rights. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping precedent-setting jurisprudence and influencing health and human rights policy at national and regional levels.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead and grow the Strategic Litigation Unit by mentoring team members, strengthening internal legal capacity, and fostering a culture of strategic thinking and excellence. 
• Manage and coordinate outside counsel to meet the organization’s day-to-day legal needs.
• Use law creatively and strategically as a tool to advance health-related human rights.
• Oversee the docket of strategic litigation cases, providing guidance and quality control while personally litigating select high-impact matters aligned with the organization’s thematic areas of operations
• Research and advice on international and comparative human rights law
• Draft legal memoranda, briefs, opinions, and amicus curiae submissions
• Represent the organization in domestic, regional, and international human rights cases
• Build and maintain strong alliances with relevant social networks and advocacy groups
• Identify and mitigate legal risks related to organization programs and operations
• Provide guidance on legal risks, both locally and internationally, as they relate to the organization’s work
• Take part in fundraising for the department and contribute to broader institutional fundraising
• Contribute to the recruitment, supervision, and mentorship of legal staff, volunteers, and pro bono lawyers
• Participate in internal planning meetings and ensure adherence to institutional policies.

EDUCATION COMPETENCIES & SKILLS REQUIRED

• At least ten (10) years of proven experience in leading legal strategies and teams within the NGO environment, and preferably in a human rights-based institution
• Advanced degree in Law (LLB, LLM, or equivalent)
• A Diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law (KSL)
• A registered and practicing Advocate of the High Court of Kenya
• Member of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK)
• A Postgraduate Diploma in Law or Organizational Leadership, particularly with relevance to NGO management, will be an added advantage
• In-depth understanding of Human Rights-Based Approach to Development and programming issues and policy work at national, county, and international levels
• Strong research, writing, and analytical skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment
• Experience with international human rights law and policy is a plus
• Demonstrated experience using litigation to advance social justice and protect rights
• Experience in strategic litigation at the High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court
• Experience in developing and submitting amicus curiae briefs
• Familiarity with regional mechanisms such as the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the African Court, and EACJ
• Proven experience in legal team leadership, budgeting, and resource mobilization within the NGO or public interest legal sector
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively
• High ethical standards and commitment to human rights values
• Emotional intelligence, adaptability, and sound judgment in politically sensitive contexts
• Ability to lead with empathy and integrity, especially in high-pressure litigation settings.