Legal Officer at Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral & Research Hospital

Job Purpose:

The Legal Officer’s job exists to provide legal services in the Hospital, including preparing and reviewing legal documents, handling legal matters, ensuring compliance, and maintaining a legal database. Additionally, the Legal Officer assists in secretarial duties for the Board of Directors and conducts legal awareness and education for Hospital staff.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Preparing preliminary legal documents/instruments;
• Ensuring compliance with principals of good corporate governance;
• Collecting and collating data for legal research and decision, making;
• Reviewing recent legislation, court cases, correspondences and publications pointing out matters that which necessitate management actions;
• Conducting legal awareness and education to Hospital staff;
• Assisting in the provision of secretarial services to the Board;
• Researching on relevant statutes, rulings and precedents to be used as a basis for preparation of legal opinions;
• Preparing legal opinions;
• Representing the Hospital on court matters;
• Performing any other duties as may be assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor of Laws degree from a recognized institution.
• Post graduate Diploma from the Kenya School of Law or its equivalent.
• Admission as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya.
• Member of the Law Society of Kenya in good standing.
• At least three (3) years relevant work experience in a legal department.
• Proficiency in computer applications.
• Fulfilled the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya.

Key Competencies & Attributes

• Attention to Detail: Pays meticulous attention to detail when drafting legal documents, reviewing contracts, and analyzing legal issues.
• Problem-Solving: Demonstrates the ability to identify legal challenges, develop creative solutions, and resolve issues effectively.
• Collaboration: Works collaboratively with the Board of Directors, Hospital Management, legal teams, and external stakeholders to achieve legal and compliance goals.
• Adaptability: Adapts quickly to changes in laws, regulations, and healthcare practices to ensure legal compliance and mitigate risks.
• Confidentiality: Maintains strict confidentiality of sensitive legal information and clients’ data in accordance with privacy laws and ethical standards.
• Negotiation Skills: Demonstrates proficiency in negotiating contracts, settlements, and agreements with vendors, insurers, and other parties, ensuring favorable terms for the Hospital.
• Risk Management: Identifies potential legal and regulatory risks for the Hospital and develops strategies to mitigate these risks effectively.
• Analytical Skills: Applies critical thinking skills to analyze complex legal issues, evaluate evidence, and make well-informed decisions in legal matters.
• Conflict Resolution: Possesses strong conflict resolution skills to address disputes, conflicts, and legal challenges within a hospital environment, promoting harmony and cooperation among stakeholders.