Associate Director, Deputy Head of Kenya for Government Relations

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is a pioneering international financial institution established in 199

• The EBRD's mission is to foster the transition towards open market-oriented economies and to promote private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia and the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries, employing thousands of professionals dedicated to supporting sustainable economic development. The organization is committed to promoting inclusiveness, innovation, trust, and responsibility in its operations, ensuring that its activities contribute positively to the regions it serves.

Job Overview:
The Associate Director, Deputy Head of Kenya for Government Relations plays a pivotal role in supporting the Managing Director for the Sub-Saharan Africa region. This position is crucial for the successful delivery of the country strategy and the achievement of the Bank's annual targets in Kenya. The Deputy Head will manage high-level relationships with key government stakeholders, international partners, and the public sector, facilitating policy proposals and addressing business environment challenges. The role also involves overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Resident Office, ensuring efficient resource management and alignment with the Bank's objectives. The Deputy Head will communicate the EBRD's priorities to the Kenyan government and act as a senior representative of the Bank, advocating for its mission in promoting sustainable economic development in Kenya. This position requires collaboration with cross-functional teams to identify investment opportunities and drive policy initiatives that align with the Bank's strategic goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Deputy Head will be responsible for strategic leadership and oversight, supporting the Managing Director in implementing the country strategy and achieving annual targets. This includes providing guidance for policy initiatives, managing relationships with sector clients, and overseeing the Resident Office's administrative and budgetary affairs. The Deputy Head will engage with government stakeholders and the international community, advocating for the EBRD's mission and ensuring alignment with national and regional policy developments. Operational management duties include supporting the Managing Director in prioritizing key initiatives, tracking reform efforts, and collaborating with sector teams to develop policy solutions. The Deputy Head will also manage risks, ensure compliance with regulations, and lead a multi-disciplinary team, fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of Kenya's political, economic, and regulatory landscape, with proven experience in managing high-level relationships across government and public sector institutions. Diplomatic skills are essential for navigating sensitive political issues. Extensive knowledge of the EBRD's operational guidelines and procurement processes is required, along with excellent communication and negotiation skills. Candidates should demonstrate strong policy and advocacy capabilities, analytical skills for evaluating challenges, and the ability to lead and develop teams effectively. Integrity and ethical conduct are paramount, as is the ability to influence and drive strategic outcomes within the organization.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in economics, business administration, finance, international relations, or a related field is required. A higher degree in a similar discipline is desirable, reflecting the advanced knowledge needed for this role.

Experience:
Candidates should have extensive experience in international or national economic development, with a proven track record in managing complex projects and navigating political and regulatory environments. Significant experience engaging with senior government officials and driving policy change is essential, along with experience in risk management and compliance. Proven strategic leadership and management experience, particularly in leading cross-functional teams, is also required.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while proficiency in Kiswahili is highly desirable, reflecting the need for effective communication within the Kenyan context.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract lasting four years. The role is full-time and involves senior-level responsibilities, including oversight of a team of 10 staff members. The EBRD encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background, ensuring an inclusive recruitment process. The organization offers a hybrid workplace that prioritizes employee wellbeing and provides competitive benefits.