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Open until November 9, 2026
Full Time
On Site
Legal Services and Corporation Secretary
Nairobi CBD, Nairobi, Kenya
Experience: 5 years
Level: Senior
This page is based on the employer’s advert. If anything here differs from the employer’s own advert, the employer’s advert applies. Report a difference.
Job Description
Kenya Railways Corporation is seeking a senior legal professional to provide executive leadership in legal affairs, corporate governance and company secretarial functions. Based in Nairobi and reporting to the Managing Director, the General Manager will guide the Corporation on legal obligations, contractual commitments, Board procedures and matters that could affect its institutional interests, assets or reputation.
The position combines legal advisory work with strategic management. The successful candidate will oversee the interpretation and application of relevant legislation, support compliance with regulatory requirements and provide direction on agreements involving the Corporation. The role also covers negotiations relating to railway concessions, contract administration, litigation oversight and the management of disputes involving business partners, public institutions and other stakeholders.
A major part of the assignment involves supporting effective governance at Board level. The potholder will coordinate the preparation and circulation of Board papers, agendas, minutes and action reports; facilitate communication of Board resolutions; and monitor the implementation of decisions. The role requires close working relationships with the Board Chairperson, Managing Director, departmental heads, external advocates and other authorized representatives.
The General Manager will also lead the department’s planning, budgeting, procurement coordination, performance reporting and staff development activities. This includes establishing appropriate controls, monitoring departmental commitments, managing operational risks and encouraging ethical conduct throughout the legal function.
Candidates should bring substantial experience in legal practice and senior management, together with the professional standing required for the position. The role calls for sound judgement, discretion, strong communication and the ability to explain complex legal matters in ways that support informed executive decisions.
The appointment is intended for a Kenyan citizen who meets the stated academic, professional and experience requirements and can demonstrate a record of responsible leadership. Applicants must submit the prescribed supporting documents and follow the electronic application procedure published by Kenya Railways. The vacancy-specific reference number and application link should be confirmed from the current official advertisement before submission.
The position combines legal advisory work with strategic management. The successful candidate will oversee the interpretation and application of relevant legislation, support compliance with regulatory requirements and provide direction on agreements involving the Corporation. The role also covers negotiations relating to railway concessions, contract administration, litigation oversight and the management of disputes involving business partners, public institutions and other stakeholders.
A major part of the assignment involves supporting effective governance at Board level. The potholder will coordinate the preparation and circulation of Board papers, agendas, minutes and action reports; facilitate communication of Board resolutions; and monitor the implementation of decisions. The role requires close working relationships with the Board Chairperson, Managing Director, departmental heads, external advocates and other authorized representatives.
The General Manager will also lead the department’s planning, budgeting, procurement coordination, performance reporting and staff development activities. This includes establishing appropriate controls, monitoring departmental commitments, managing operational risks and encouraging ethical conduct throughout the legal function.
Candidates should bring substantial experience in legal practice and senior management, together with the professional standing required for the position. The role calls for sound judgement, discretion, strong communication and the ability to explain complex legal matters in ways that support informed executive decisions.
The appointment is intended for a Kenyan citizen who meets the stated academic, professional and experience requirements and can demonstrate a record of responsible leadership. Applicants must submit the prescribed supporting documents and follow the electronic application procedure published by Kenya Railways. The vacancy-specific reference number and application link should be confirmed from the current official advertisement before submission.
Experience
• 5 years
Responsibilities
1. Legal Strategy and Corporate Advisory
Lead the development, implementation and periodic review of legal strategies, departmental guidelines and policies that protect the Corporation’s legitimate interests.
Advise executive management on applicable legislation, regulatory obligations and legal developments that may affect railway operations, contracts or institutional responsibilities.
Review proposed agreements and provide guidance on legal exposure, contractual obligations, remedies and protection of Corporation assets.
Direct legal analysis of railway concession arrangements and related documentation, supporting negotiations and interpretation of contractual provisions.
Coordinate legal responses to emerging issues and recommend appropriate action when regulatory changes or disputes require management attention.
2. Corporate Governance and Board Secretariat
Oversee the preparation, circulation and administration of Board agendas, papers, minutes and action-tracking reports.
Work with the Board Chairperson and Managing Director on the preparation of meeting agendas and the orderly handling of Board business.
Communicate Board resolutions to the Managing Director and relevant officers for implementation.
Monitor progress on Board decisions and prepare reports identifying completed actions, outstanding matters and issues requiring further direction.
Promote adherence to corporate governance principles, approved procedures, applicable public-sector requirements and ethical standards.
Coordinate the authentication and authorized use of the Corporation’s common seal in accordance with applicable procedures.
3. Contracts, Litigation and Dispute Resolution
Direct the review and coordination of contracts to which the Corporation is a party.
Oversee legal negotiations and provide advice on contractual interpretation, performance, variations and potential disputes.
Supervise the management of litigation and other dispute-resolution matters, coordinating with authorised external advocates where necessary.
Oversee the approval or appointment of external legal representatives in accordance with the Corporation’s established processes.
Ensure that legal records, ownership documents and other important instruments relating to Corporation assets are appropriately safeguarded.
4. Departmental Leadership and Risk Management
Develop and monitor departmental work plans, budgets, procurement plans and performance commitments.
Maintain appropriate systems for accountability, internal controls, business continuity and succession planning.
Identify and implement measures to prevent corruption, strengthen ethical conduct and reduce legal and operational exposure.
Supervise, mentor and develop departmental staff, supporting professional growth and effective teamwork.
Monitor performance against strategic objectives and prepare periodic reports for management and other authorized bodies.
Lead appropriate change initiatives, encourage improved working practices and promote collaboration across departments.
5. Financial and Administrative Oversight
Coordinate preparation, implementation and monitoring of the legal department’s approved budget.
Support responsible use of departmental resources and compliance with procurement and asset-disposal procedures.
Identify resource requirements and develop justified proposals to support delivery of the department’s mandate.
Appraise direct reports and address performance, training and operational priorities.
Maintain reliable administrative records and ensure that reporting obligations are completed within required timelines.
Lead the development, implementation and periodic review of legal strategies, departmental guidelines and policies that protect the Corporation’s legitimate interests.
Advise executive management on applicable legislation, regulatory obligations and legal developments that may affect railway operations, contracts or institutional responsibilities.
Review proposed agreements and provide guidance on legal exposure, contractual obligations, remedies and protection of Corporation assets.
Direct legal analysis of railway concession arrangements and related documentation, supporting negotiations and interpretation of contractual provisions.
Coordinate legal responses to emerging issues and recommend appropriate action when regulatory changes or disputes require management attention.
2. Corporate Governance and Board Secretariat
Oversee the preparation, circulation and administration of Board agendas, papers, minutes and action-tracking reports.
Work with the Board Chairperson and Managing Director on the preparation of meeting agendas and the orderly handling of Board business.
Communicate Board resolutions to the Managing Director and relevant officers for implementation.
Monitor progress on Board decisions and prepare reports identifying completed actions, outstanding matters and issues requiring further direction.
Promote adherence to corporate governance principles, approved procedures, applicable public-sector requirements and ethical standards.
Coordinate the authentication and authorized use of the Corporation’s common seal in accordance with applicable procedures.
3. Contracts, Litigation and Dispute Resolution
Direct the review and coordination of contracts to which the Corporation is a party.
Oversee legal negotiations and provide advice on contractual interpretation, performance, variations and potential disputes.
Supervise the management of litigation and other dispute-resolution matters, coordinating with authorised external advocates where necessary.
Oversee the approval or appointment of external legal representatives in accordance with the Corporation’s established processes.
Ensure that legal records, ownership documents and other important instruments relating to Corporation assets are appropriately safeguarded.
4. Departmental Leadership and Risk Management
Develop and monitor departmental work plans, budgets, procurement plans and performance commitments.
Maintain appropriate systems for accountability, internal controls, business continuity and succession planning.
Identify and implement measures to prevent corruption, strengthen ethical conduct and reduce legal and operational exposure.
Supervise, mentor and develop departmental staff, supporting professional growth and effective teamwork.
Monitor performance against strategic objectives and prepare periodic reports for management and other authorized bodies.
Lead appropriate change initiatives, encourage improved working practices and promote collaboration across departments.
5. Financial and Administrative Oversight
Coordinate preparation, implementation and monitoring of the legal department’s approved budget.
Support responsible use of departmental resources and compliance with procurement and asset-disposal procedures.
Identify resource requirements and develop justified proposals to support delivery of the department’s mandate.
Appraise direct reports and address performance, training and operational priorities.
Maintain reliable administrative records and ensure that reporting obligations are completed within required timelines.
Qualifications
A master’s degree in a relevant field from a recognised institution.
A Bachelor of Laws degree from a recognised institution.
A postgraduate diploma in law from the Kenya School of Law, or an equivalent qualification from a recognised institution.
Admission as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya and membership of the Law Society of Kenya in good standing.
Certified Public Secretary qualification and membership of the Institute of Certified Secretaries in good standing.
Completion of a strategic leadership course lasting at least four weeks.
At least 15 years of relevant professional experience, including a minimum of five years in senior management within a State Corporation, comparable public-service organization or private-sector institution.
A Bachelor of Laws degree from a recognised institution.
A postgraduate diploma in law from the Kenya School of Law, or an equivalent qualification from a recognised institution.
Admission as an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya and membership of the Law Society of Kenya in good standing.
Certified Public Secretary qualification and membership of the Institute of Certified Secretaries in good standing.
Completion of a strategic leadership course lasting at least four weeks.
At least 15 years of relevant professional experience, including a minimum of five years in senior management within a State Corporation, comparable public-service organization or private-sector institution.
Skills
Strategic and executive leadership: Ability to set priorities, direct a professional department, evaluate competing demands and align legal activities with organizational objectives.
Legal analysis and judgement: Capacity to interpret legislation and contractual provisions, identify legal exposure, assess available options and provide balanced advice.
Negotiation: Ability to prepare for complex negotiations, understand stakeholder interests and pursue defensible outcomes while protecting the Corporation’s position.
Corporate governance: Practical understanding of Board administration, resolution tracking, accountability, ethical conduct and governance procedures.
Financial and resource management: Ability to contribute to budgeting, expenditure monitoring, procurement planning and efficient deployment of departmental resources.
Risk and problem management: Skill in identifying potential disputes, assessing operational and legal risks, recommending mitigation measures and monitoring follow-up actions.
Communication and report writing: Ability to prepare clear legal opinions, formal correspondence, Board papers and management reports, and explain technical matters to non-specialists.
People management: Experience supervising staff, delegating work, mentoring professionals, evaluating performance and identifying development needs.
Stakeholder engagement: Ability to maintain constructive working relationships with executives, directors, regulators, external counsel and other relevant parties.
Change and innovation: Willingness to improve processes, introduce appropriate controls and support organizational change.
Personal effectiveness: Strong analytical ability, emotional intelligence, interpersonal awareness, organization, time management, creativity and collaborative working habits.
Legal analysis and judgement: Capacity to interpret legislation and contractual provisions, identify legal exposure, assess available options and provide balanced advice.
Negotiation: Ability to prepare for complex negotiations, understand stakeholder interests and pursue defensible outcomes while protecting the Corporation’s position.
Corporate governance: Practical understanding of Board administration, resolution tracking, accountability, ethical conduct and governance procedures.
Financial and resource management: Ability to contribute to budgeting, expenditure monitoring, procurement planning and efficient deployment of departmental resources.
Risk and problem management: Skill in identifying potential disputes, assessing operational and legal risks, recommending mitigation measures and monitoring follow-up actions.
Communication and report writing: Ability to prepare clear legal opinions, formal correspondence, Board papers and management reports, and explain technical matters to non-specialists.
People management: Experience supervising staff, delegating work, mentoring professionals, evaluating performance and identifying development needs.
Stakeholder engagement: Ability to maintain constructive working relationships with executives, directors, regulators, external counsel and other relevant parties.
Change and innovation: Willingness to improve processes, introduce appropriate controls and support organizational change.
Personal effectiveness: Strong analytical ability, emotional intelligence, interpersonal awareness, organization, time management, creativity and collaborative working habits.
How to Apply
Vacancy reference: JOB-20261020-C33C02
The link below opens the employer’s general careers or application page, not a page for this vacancy only. Search for reference JOB-20261020-C33C02 to find it.
Applications must be submitted through the job application link provided on the official Kenya Railways website. The supplied notice states that hard-copy applications will not be accepted.
Applicants should:
Visit https://krc.co.ke/ and locate the current vacancy announcement or use the official careers page at https://krc.co.ke/careers/.
Open the relevant advertisement and verify the exact job title, vacancy reference number, eligibility conditions and electronic application destination.
Complete the application process using the instructions supplied by Kenya Railways.
Clearly identify the position applied for and include the correct vacancy reference number wherever the application instructions require it.
Upload or submit the required documents in the format specified by the employer.
Ensure the application is submitted before 9 November 2026 at 5:00 p.m. East Africa Time, if that deadline is confirmed by the current official notice.
Retain the submission confirmation or other application record, where provided.
Mandatory Application Documents
Prepare the following documents as specified in the supplied advertisement:
A signed application letter.
A detailed curriculum vitae showing current and previous employers, positions held, education, current and expected salary, notice period and at least three professional referees.
Copies of academic and professional certificates.
A copy of a valid National Identity Card or passport.
Applicants must provide truthful information. Incomplete applications, unsupported qualifications or false documents may lead to disqualification or other consequences under applicable law and employer procedures.
Clearance Documents
The supplied notice states that successful candidates will be expected to present the relevant Chapter Six clearance documents, including:
A valid Certificate of Good Conduct from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.
A valid Higher Education Loans Board clearance certificate.
A valid Kenya Revenue Authority Tax Compliance Certificate.
Current clearance from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission.
A current report from an approved Credit Reference Bureau.
Candidates should follow the employer’s instructions on the timing, validity and acceptable format of these documents.
Important Applicant Information
Only Kenyan citizens are eligible according to the supplied notice. Canvassing is prohibited, and only shortlisted or successful candidates will be contacted as specified by the employer. Shortlisted candidates may be required to present original identification and academic or professional certificates for verification.
Kenya Railways states that it is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, marginalised communities and minority groups.
Recruitment safety: No payment should be made to an individual or intermediary in exchange for an interview, favorable consideration or appointment. Use the employer’s official website to verify the vacancy and its application process before sharing personal documents.
Apply on Employer Site
Applicants should:
Visit https://krc.co.ke/ and locate the current vacancy announcement or use the official careers page at https://krc.co.ke/careers/.
Open the relevant advertisement and verify the exact job title, vacancy reference number, eligibility conditions and electronic application destination.
Complete the application process using the instructions supplied by Kenya Railways.
Clearly identify the position applied for and include the correct vacancy reference number wherever the application instructions require it.
Upload or submit the required documents in the format specified by the employer.
Ensure the application is submitted before 9 November 2026 at 5:00 p.m. East Africa Time, if that deadline is confirmed by the current official notice.
Retain the submission confirmation or other application record, where provided.
Mandatory Application Documents
Prepare the following documents as specified in the supplied advertisement:
A signed application letter.
A detailed curriculum vitae showing current and previous employers, positions held, education, current and expected salary, notice period and at least three professional referees.
Copies of academic and professional certificates.
A copy of a valid National Identity Card or passport.
Applicants must provide truthful information. Incomplete applications, unsupported qualifications or false documents may lead to disqualification or other consequences under applicable law and employer procedures.
Clearance Documents
The supplied notice states that successful candidates will be expected to present the relevant Chapter Six clearance documents, including:
A valid Certificate of Good Conduct from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.
A valid Higher Education Loans Board clearance certificate.
A valid Kenya Revenue Authority Tax Compliance Certificate.
Current clearance from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission.
A current report from an approved Credit Reference Bureau.
Candidates should follow the employer’s instructions on the timing, validity and acceptable format of these documents.
Important Applicant Information
Only Kenyan citizens are eligible according to the supplied notice. Canvassing is prohibited, and only shortlisted or successful candidates will be contacted as specified by the employer. Shortlisted candidates may be required to present original identification and academic or professional certificates for verification.
Kenya Railways states that it is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, marginalised communities and minority groups.
Recruitment safety: No payment should be made to an individual or intermediary in exchange for an interview, favorable consideration or appointment. Use the employer’s official website to verify the vacancy and its application process before sharing personal documents.
Before You Apply
JobOoro guidance built from the details of this listing. It is not part of the employer’s advert and adds no requirements of its own.
- Apply before the deadline: November 9, 2026.
- Check that you meet the qualification the employer states: Master’s degree.
- Compare your experience with the employer’s requirement: 5 years.
- Apply only through the route given under “How to Apply”.
- The application link opens the employer’s general portal: use reference JOB-20261020-C33C02 to find this vacancy.
- Quote the reference number JOB-20261020-C33C02 in your application.
- Keep a copy of this advert and of what you submitted.
Application Safety
Review the complete job information before applying. Verify the employer and use only the stated application instructions. Never provide passwords, banking credentials, payment-card details or other confidential authentication information as part of a normal employment application. Legitimate employers do not ask applicants to pay a fee to apply.
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