Senior Political Officer HEO at British High Commission Nairobi

Job Description (Roles and Responsibilities) 1 
Main purpose of job:

Use in depth knowledge of Kenya’s political environment and system to inform UK policy and activity in Kenya.  Grow the UK’s network of political contacts and relationships (with e.g.  political actors, civil society, media and religious leaders). Provide thoughtful, balanced and timely advice on the impact of political developments to UK interests in Kenya. Use knowledge to spot opportunities and manage risks.  Lead on specific areas of UK policy – in particular support our work to strengthen Kenya’s institutions including Kenya’s constitutionally mandated bodies.  Use knowledge and networks to support delivery of objectives under the UK Kenya Strategic Partnership.

Roles and responsibilities:

•  Use knowledge of Kenyan political system and environment to provide high quality analysis and advice to inform delivery of UK objectives under the UK Kenya Strategic Partnership. 
• Lead on specific areas of UK policy (TBD depending on experience).  As appropriate, use, develop and implement programmes, influencing and communication strategies to deliver policy objectives.
• Strengthen of understanding of the Kenya political system and Government of Kenya’s ways of working within the British High Commission through sharing analysis, updates, delivering seminars and other tools as required.
• Monitor medium – long term political trends, spotting opportunities for and risks to UK objectives in Kenya.
• Maintain and develop a wide network of contacts across the political spectrum. Support colleagues, including the High Commissioner, develop contacts and network to progress UK priorities.
• Take on ad hoc duties as needed, for example arranging Ministerial and other senior inward and outward visits, arranging events such as roundtables.

Essential qualifications, skills and experience 1 

• Degree level qualification in politics, international relations or a related field.
• Excellent networking skills with established and extensive relationships with wide range of political actors in Kenya. 
• In depth knowledge of Kenyan political issues – with demonstrable enthusiasm for engaging in political ideas and, ideally, expertise in Kenyan constitutional and legal structures.
• At least 5 years’ experience working in the field of politics and/or governance.
• Proven ability to write accurate and insightful reports quickly.
• Highly organised, proactive, able to take initiative and to work independently and accurately to meet deadlines.
• Excellent IT Skills (a working knowledge or Microsoft Excel and Word is essential)
• A willingness to travel in Kenya and to do some occasional out of (core) hours work will be necessary.

Desirable qualifications, skills and experience 1 

• Knowledge of UK political and governance structures.

Required behaviours 1 

• Seeing the Big Picture, Communicating and Influencing, Working Together