Policy Research and Advocacy Manager at Institution of Engineers of Kenya

Job Purpose: 

The Research and Advocacy Manager will be responsible for coordinating research in policies advancing interests of Engineers and Engineering as captured in IEK Constitution, Strategic plan and strategic direction given by the council from time to time. The office holder will have a coordinating role in IEK policy and advocacy matters in public and private sector. The role will involve identifying policy areas, enlisting relevant partnerships and developing instruments of engagement with National, County governments and other industry players including Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and Semi-Autonomous Government Agencies (SAGAs). The holder will also be expected to play a coordinating role in managing the different stakeholders both locally and abroad including international bodies.

We are looking for a versatile, flexible, agile and adaptable individual who will be required to work after hours as the IEK activities may demand

Key Responsibilities

• The manager will be in charge of the policy, research and advocacy relating to engineering profession and practice.
• Pursue advocacy on public policy and legislation responsive to the society in matters related to infrastructure, Manufacturing, Telecommunication and General Engineering practice.
• Assist the council to advise and provide technical support to government, parliament and the different public forums in policy, legislation and constitutional implementation on matters affecting the Engineering profession.
• Review legislation to align engineering practice to global best practices.
• Coordinate publication of engineering best practices, standards, guidelines, and manuals, IEK journals, magazines
• Facilitate dialogue forums to develop common positions on key policy advocacy issues
• Constantly review existing policy issues and regulatory environment and highlight areas of concern
• Take lead in the design of appropriate actions to address any areas of concern including the development of policy position papers to guide IEKs policy advocacy agenda.
• Providing regular policy briefs drawn from both draft and concluded policy and legislative actions.
• In consultation with relevant stakeholders, prepare and submit the IEK’s position on emerging issues in the sector.
• Liaising with relevant government agencies, departments and partners to follow through on recommended interventions.
• Keeping stakeholders informed on the organization’s policy interventions.

Qualifications and Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Economics, Statistics, Law or equivalent
• Postgraduate degree in Business Administration, Policy Development or Economics or Equivalent
• Over 10 years’ experience in Engineering advocacy policy engagement, research, and analysis with demonstrable of practical policy for 5 of these.
• Must have EBK practicing license or equivalent from other regulators
• Must have a proven track record of resources, partnerships, management of internal and external relations.

Preferred Skills

• Experience in legal and policy analysis and knowledge of the country’s laws and policies as they relate to the engineering profession
• Excellent negotiation skills.
• Strong analytical skills.
• Excellent writing skills including speech writing
• Strong research, communication, networking and mobilization skills.
• A team player who thrives in a fast-paced environment