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Deputy Director, Communications (Communications Division) at Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA)

Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA)
March 31, 2026
Full-time
On-site
Job Specifications

Duties and responsibilities will entail:


Providing strategic leadership in developing, implementing, and reviewing integrated research communication policies and strategies in line with the Institute's mandate.
Overseeing the design and execution of communication frameworks, ensuring consistent internal and external messaging.
Leading the preparation and implementation of annual departmental work plans, budgets, performance reports, and communication impact assessments.
Spearheading the analysis of KIPPRA programmes, research outputs, and events, and preparation of quarterly intelligence reports to inform institutional visibility and policy influence.
Championing the translation of research outputs into accessible, engaging formats for policymakers, stakeholders, and the public.
Overseeing the packaging and dissemination of policy briefs, newsletters, infographics, podcasts, documentaries, and multimedia products to enhance uptake of policy analysis findings.
Spearheading collaboration with policy analysts in crafting clear, impactful messages for Information, Education and Communication materials, events, and policy dialogues.
Establishing partnerships with media and knowledge platforms for wider dissemination of policy research findings at national, regional, and international levels.
Leading initiatives to enhance the Institute's corporate identity, reputation, and stakeholder perception through strategic brand positioning.
Overseeing digital communication, website management, and social media strategy to ensure dynamic, real-time updates and engagement.
Supporting the production of the KIPPRA Policy Monitor, institutional newsletters, and media supplements showcasing policy research, capacity building, policy engagement and corporate initiatives.
Serving as the Institute's principal liaison with the media and coordinate press coverage, interviews, and opinion editorials.
Establishing crisis communication protocols and lead the Institute's crisis response to safeguard reputation and maintain public trust.
Anticipating potential communication risks and prepare contingency communication measures to ensure timely and coordinated responses to emerging issues.
Collaborating with the Executive Director, the senior management, and relevant departments to manage reputational risks, provide strategic advice and ensure consistent, accurate messaging to all stakeholders during crises.
Overseeing stakeholder engagement initiatives, forums, and events to enhance the Institute's visibility and public trust.
Building relationships with policymakers, development partners, academia, and the private sector to strengthen policy research outreach collaborations.
Leading the integration of infographics, video production, and AI-driven tools into research communication strategies for a wider audience reach.
Overseeing the creation of digital campaigns, and multimedia content for effective communication of research findings.
Overseeing the regular updating and optimization of KIPPRA's digital platforms to enhance stakeholder engagement and research dissemination.
Supervising, mentoring, and building capacity within the communications team to deliver high-quality outputs.
Promoting professional development in areas such as digital communication, media engagement, crisis communication, and policy communication.
Assigning responsibilities, monitor performance, and ensuring efficient workflow across departmental functions.
Establishing mechanisms for tracking the effectiveness of communication and policy research outreach activities.
Providing regular updates to management on institutional visibility, stakeholder feedback, and effectiveness of communication initiatives.
Recommending strategic improvements for communication systems, platforms, and processes based on evidence and analytics.
Spearheading the Institute's Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives.
Motivating staff in the department, ensuring teamwork and maintaining a good working environment.


Job Specification

Qualifications

Person Specifications

For appointment to this grade, a candidate must have: -


Twelve (15) years' cumulative experience in communication, three (3) of which should have been at the level of Assistant Director Communication or a comparative level
Bachelor's degree in the following disciplines: Communication, Information Science, Public Relations, Journalism, Media Studies, Linguistics or a related field from a recognized institution
Master's degree in the following disciplines: Communication, Public Policy Communication, International Relations, Development Communication Information Science, Public Relations, Journalism, Media Studies, Linguistics, or a related field from a recognized institution
Proficiency in communication tools such as data visualization software, graphic design software, video production and editing software, social media analytics or monitoring and evaluation frameworks
Membership to a relevant professional body like PRSK, MSK, CIPR and in good standing
Leadership course lasting not less than four (4) weeks from a recognized institution
Proficiency in computer applications
Shown merit and ability as reflected in work performance and results


Functional Skills, Behavioral Competencies and Attributes:


Leadership and supervisory skills
Strategic management skills
Problem solving skills
Analytical skills
Organizational skills
Negotiation skills
Proficiency in economic modelling
Proficiency in computer applications including statistical software
Presentation skills
Communication and interpersonal skills
Team building skills
Shown merit and ability as reflected in work performance and results