Job Purpose

Responsible for providing leadership in formulation and implementation of the Public Relations, Communications, Brand, Digital and Customer experience policies, strategies and programs to build and uphold mutually beneficial stakeholder relationships, a trustworthy brand and a positive image and reputation for Kenya Railways.

Key Responsibilities / Duties / Tasks

Managerial / Supervisory Responsibilities

• Leads in development, implementation and review of Corporate Communications and Communication policies, strategies and programmes to achieve the Corporations mandate;
• Oversees the production and dissemination of information with targeted publics through appropriate channels in line with the Corporation’s mission and vision.
• Leads in development and implementation of media management strategies, publicity programs and campaigns to create awareness, build and maintain a positive image for the Corporation.
• Provides leadership in developing and implementing brand strategies for building and maintaining a strong corporate brand image and reputation;
• Oversees the review, development, implementation and monitoring of the Customer Service Delivery Charter to enhance accountability and transparency in service delivery to stakeholders.
• Leads the Corporation’s Customer Service function to enhance customer satisfaction in line with the Corporation’s Service Delivery Charter.
• Spearheads research to gauge the customer satisfaction, perception levels, and brand equity as well as identify specific needs amongst the Corporation’s stakeholders;
• Spearheads monitoring of the implementation of the surveys recommendations to ensure customer satisfaction and maintain stakeholder relationships.
• Oversees management of the Corporation events to enhance Public Relations efforts.
• Leads in formulation, implementation and review of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy and strategy to foster good relationships with stakeholders;
• Oversees development and execution of crisis communication strategies to maintain a   positive corporate image and reputation;
• Leads in motivation, development and appraisal of the staff in the Division to achieve business and people objectives;
• Communicates Management decisions affecting the Division;
• Provide technical input in development, implementation and review of the Institute ’s strategic plan, vision, mission, and objectives;
• 1Coordinate implementation of the performance management system within the Division through providing oversight of the delivery of the annual performance contract and the strategic plan;
• Provide strategic leadership in supervision, coaching, mentoring, training, and development of all staff to ensure an efficient and motivated team in the Division;
• Provide strategic leadership in formulation, implementation, monitoring, and review of risk management policy and framework that ensures the Division has a robust system and processes of accountability, enterprise risk management and business continuity;
• Foster conducive corporate culture that promotes ethical practices and good governance in line with the Constitution of Kenya 2010 within the Division;
• Provide leadership in the development and implementation of corruption prevention and mitigation strategies in the Department;
• Spearhead the implementation of principles of Corporate Governance, relevant national policies, guidelines, and directives within the Division;
• Lead in the development, implementation, and maintenance of the Quality Management Systems within the Division;
• Promote adoption of best practices in standards and codes of practice development for the sector as per emerging needs and trends.

Operational Responsibilities / Tasks

• Provide oversight of all activities of the Division and manage the day-to-day operations for a smooth functioning and efficiency.
• Provide leadership to Division’s staff and chairs the Division’s meetings.
• Spearhead the preparation and submission of periodic reports in the Division.
• Responsible for the implementation of Board resolutions and audit recommendations within the Division.
• Provide regular, thorough, and prompt communication to the Divisions’ staff on key technical, financial, and administrative matters.
• Appraise the direct reports.

Job Dimensions:

Financial Responsibility

• Leads in development of the Division’s budget and authorize the expenditure.
• Leads in development of the Division’s procurement and assets disposal plans.
• Division’s resource mobilization

Responsibility for physical Assets

• Audio – visual equipment
• Digital assets
• Computer/Office equipment
• Branded/promotional items
• ASK show exhibition stands
• Signage – facility and directional
• Contact Centre

Decision making / Job influence

• Strategic decisions
• Managerial decisions
• Operational decisions

Job Competencies (Knowledge, Experience and Attributes / Skills).

Academic qualifications

• Master’s degree in Communication, International Relations, or related field from a recognized institution by Commission of University Education
• Bachelor’s degree in communication, Public Relations, Journalism, Media Studies, or a similar discipline from an institution recognized by Commission of University Education

Professional Qualification / Membership to professional bodies

• Leadership course lasting not less than four (4) weeks from a recognized institution will be an added advantage.
• Must be a member of PRSK/ICX/CIPR or relevant professional body.

Previous relevant work experience required.

Minimum 10 years’ Communications and Public Relations experience with at least 3 in management positions with proven performance in Public Relations, Brand Management, Strategy Development and Execution.

Functional Skills, Behavioral Competencies/ Attributes

• Strategic management;
• Policy formulation,
• Change management,
• Interpersonal
• Negotiation
• Mentorship
• Leadership
• Managerial
• Decision making
• Flexibility
• Resilience
• Problem solving
• Financial management
• Organizational
• Stakeholder management
• Analytical
• Creativity and Innovation
• Time management
• Writing and Editing skills