The Insurance Regulatory Authority of Kenya (IRA) is the sole authority charged with regulation and supervision of the insurance industry within the Republic of Kenya. It ensures compliance by insurance/reinsurance companies, protects consumers and promotes a high degree of security for policyholders.

REF: MCC/12

Purpose

The position is responsible for establishing and maintaining IRA’s positive reputation and brand image through effective corporate communication strategies and practices, media management, stakeholder engagement, corporate social responsibility, creating brand personality and events management. The position is also responsible for developing and implementing strategies aimed at enhancing and maintaining service delivery and good customer experience.

The duties and responsibilities will entail:

Managerial / Supervisory Responsibilities

• Develop and execute Communication Strategies and programs to support business decisions and overall implementation of the Strategic Plan to enable the Authority respond and address its internal and externalstakeholders’ needs and expectations.
• Develop and provide guidance in the implementation of a media relations strategy for use across all media platforms in furtherance of the Authority’s mandate
• Develop and guide in the implementation of crisis communication plans and procedures for enhance and positive reputation and corporate image
•  Identify and develop proposals to undertake research in corporate communication and innovative customer service Corporate Communication initiatives to keep abreast with emerging customer needs and expectations.
• Develop and implement strategies aimed at promoting the IRA brand through implementation of Corporate Social Responsibility
• Formulate content development, management, and dissemination for traditional and digital media channels for increased and sustained brand positioning, publicity, and robust stakeholder engagement.
• Formulate and manage the implementation of the Authority’s advertisements, media and publicity campaigns across various platforms and media for enhanced brand value, reputation, visibility, and sustained stakeholder engagement.
• Prepare and implement the Stakeholder Engagement strategy to guide in lobbying and advocacy programs
• Identify, establish and maintain strategic corporate partnerships and alliances for the realization of the Authority’s mandate
• Develop, produce and disseminate communication and promotional collaterals for use in various platforms and corporate functions.
• Formulate and execute strategies for conducting regular research and surveys in brand communication, service delivery and proactively obtain market trends and insights on brand value and customer satisfaction levels.
• Plan and implement the execution and management of all corporate events in support of achieving organizational mandate and corporate visibility.
• Coordinate the development, production and broadcasting of media campaigns and publicity initiatives.

Operational Responsibilities / Tasks

• Establish a media database and initiate partnerships with media organizations and journalists; interact and pitch stories/op-eds of interest; organize media field visits and sensitization of reporters and editors.
• Draft and disseminate press releases and talking points; organize press conferences; prepare media kits; provide information to querying journalists; keep track of IRA mentions/media coverage.
• Manage end to end flagship IRA events (e.g. Insurance Convention, CEO’s Forum, Insurance Open Days, launches, workshops, etc.) including preparation of the programme, managing suppliers and speakers/facilitators among other activities.
• Oversee liaison with media practitioners and the public on issues of mutual concern to ensure only relevant information is disseminated
• Oversee in the production of IRA Quarterly Magazine.
• Supervise adherence to IRA brand identity in all communication channels
• Coordinate media advertisements across various platforms
• Lead in the performance appraisal and identification of skill gaps and
• training needs of the staff in the Department
• Appraise the Corporate Communication Department staff
• Coordinate preparation of quarterly and annual departmental performance reports on implementation of the strategic plan, performance contract and operational/annual work plans
• Develop, implement and review of the department’s annual budgets, annual work plans, procurement and disposal plan in compliance with the applicable laws and regulations;
• Ensure compliance and direct the implementation of the Risk Management Policy Framework; and support the CEO in ensuring that the framework is integrated in the day-to-day activities of the Authority,
• Undertake performance management, training and development, coaching and mentoring for all staff within the department
• Plan, prepare and execute stakeholder and publicity activities in furtherance of the Authority’s mandate.
• Provide Corporate Communication and Customer Service support to all departments within the Authority.
• Participate in joint financial sector regulator forums

Persons Specifications

• Masters Degree in Mass Communication, Communication Studies, Journalism, Public Relations or any other approved equivalent;
• Bachelors degree in Mass Communication, Communication Studies, Journalism, Public Relations or any other approved equivalent qualifications from a recognized University/Institution;
• Management Course lasting not less four (4) weeks;
• Supervisory Course for not less than two (2) weeks;
• Certificate in computer proficiency
• Nine (9) years relevant experience
• Member of a relevant professional body
• Possess a certificate in Computer proficiency
• Meet the provision of Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya.

Competency and Skills

• Excellent oral and written communication skills;
• Strong negotiation skills
• Strong communication and presentation skills
• Good mentorship and coaching skills
• Leadership and supervision skills.