Kenya Jobs and Economic Transformation (KJET) Project Specialist Recruitment
1. VACANCY NO. 1/2024: PROJECT COORDINATOR - ONE (1) POST
The objective of this assignment is to provide overall and day-to-day management of the activities supported under the KJET Project. The Project Coordinator heads the Project Implementation Unit (PIU) at the State Department for MSME Development. The Project Coordinator is the main operational link between the Project, the State Department for MSMEs Development and the World Bank.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
The candidate should have the following desired qualifications and experience:
i. A Bachelor’s Degree in Economics, Business Administration, Project Management or related discipline from a recognized institution;
ii. A Master’s Degree in Economics, Business Administration, Project Management or related discipline from a recognized institution;
iii. A minimum of 10 years relevant experience in the public service and/or donor funded projects/programmes is required;
iv. Demonstrated knowledge of and experience with management of World Bank funded projects/programs is required;
v. Excellent analytical skills, report writing skills and must be computer literate;
vi. Capacity to work under pressure and meet tight schedules under minimum supervision;
vii. High level of reliability and integrity;
viii. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and able to lead and work in a team;
ix. Excellent computer skills in Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and Internet use, including database use is required; and
x. Membership to a relevant professional body where applicable.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILIES
The Project Coordinator will be reporting to the Principal Secretary State Department for MSMEs Development.
The Project Coordinator will:
i. Provide strategic direction to the KJET project through high-level policy, liaison and networking at the PIU under the direction of, and reporting to the Project Steering Committee chaired by the Principal Secretaries (PSs) of MCMSME (SDMSME) and MITI (SDIP);
ii. Provide overall oversight and guidance to the PIU at MCMSME, in coordination with other implementing entities, on the implementation of the KJET Project including approved work plan activities under the beneficiaries to ensure the successful and effective attainment of the Programme Development Objective and Key Performance Indicators established for the Project;
iii. Ensure effective coordination among the implementing agencies at the national level for smooth implementation;
iv. Advise on project beneficiaries’ conformity with the tenets of the Program Implementation Manual;
v. Prepare consolidated results-based narrative and financial periodic progress reports for project management and to relevant bodies, in accordance with approved reporting formats and timing and co-ordinate Project missions;
vi. Ensure that all such individual consultants appointed under the SDMSME PIU (i.e. procurement, financial management and any other individual consultant appointed on the Project) perform their functions efficiently and effectively to ensure that the needs of the Project are met;
vii. Lead the preparation of Annual Work Plans and Strategy, Progress Reports, End-of-Year Performance Report, Procurement Plans and associated Performance Frameworks for the various activities of the Project;
viii. Lead preparation of End-of-Assignment Report on outcomes, challenges and results against assignment work plan;
ix. Lead all project-level risk management and response strategies, including conducting ongoing project risk monitoring and reduction efforts;
x. Ensure overall on-going compliance with all fiduciary, environmental and safeguard requirements of the program;
xi. Ensure that all assets are used solely for the purpose for which they were procured;
xii. Facilitate and ensure the timely procurement and delivery of various inputs and technical equipment in collaboration with the Procurement Specialist and Implementation Agencies in accordance with GOK and World Bank guidelines;
xiii. Develop a Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) framework for the program’s activities, in cooperation with the PIU M&E Specialist, and other KJET implementing entities;
xiv. Supervise financial administration, including the preparation of financial statements, budgets and forecasts;
xv. Ensure that adequate funding is received in a timely fashion, and is in place for all aspects of the Project’s operations;
xvi. Advise and recommend on evolving PIU staffing and expertise requirements to maintain project effectiveness and performance; and
xvii. Perform any other professional functions assigned by the Chair of the Project Steering Committee.
2. VACANCY NO. 2/2024: FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST - ONE (1) POST
The overall objective of this position is to provide financial management and accounting support to the State Department for MSME Development- PIU and other project implementing entities in accordance with World Bank & Government of Kenya financial management regulations and accounting procedures.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
The candidate should have the following desired qualifications and experience:
i. A Bachelor’s Degree in Finance or Accounting from a recognized institution;
ii. Have CPA (K) qualifications from a recognized institution;
iii. A minimum of 5 years’ experience in financial management or accounting and demonstrated knowledge of public sector financial management;
iv. Possess high level of integrity and responsibility;
v. Good analytical, organizational skills and communication skills;
vi. Excellent computer skills in Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and Internet use, including database use is required; and
vii. Two (2) years’ experience working on a World Bank-funded Project or other donor funded project/program would be an added advantage.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Financial Management Specialist will report to the SDMSME Project Implementation Unit (PIU)- Project Coordinator for day-to-day activities.
The Financial Management Specialist will:
i. Maintain all Project accounting records in line with the approved accounting standards and in accordance with World Bank and GOK regulations;
ii. Working under the PIU and coordinating closely with the National Treasury, ensure robust Project budgeting, funds flow, accounting, internal control, financial reporting and budget arrangements;
iii. Render periodic reports (i.e. monthly/quarterly/annually) in the formats approved by World Bank;
iv. Draw up activity budgets and work plans together with the PIU staff;
v. Ensure prompt release of funds, once approved, to beneficiaries;
vi. Maintain relevant books of account and accounting /financial records for the Project;
vii. Ensure that all accounting records are updated promptly;
viii. Prepare monthly bank reconciliations of all bank accounts;
ix. Together with the PIU management, maintain Financial Management Manual;
x. Together with the PIU staff ensure strict adherence to installed internal control systems for all areas of project operation;
xi. Liaise with the internal/external auditors and follow up on audit queries and recommendations documented in management letters;
xii. Issue receipts, prepare payment vouchers and maintain cash records in accordance with laid down procedures;
xiii. Maintain an Advance Payments Register and monitor advances settlement;
xiv. Manage the petty cash float and maintain the petty cash book;
xv. Ensure petty cash disbursements are appropriately and adequately documented;
xvi. Ensure invoices submitted for payment at the PIU are promptly attended to and processed in the IFMIS;
xvii. Undertake IFMIS Ledger reconciliations;
xviii. Perform any other duties assigned by the Project Coordinator; and
xix. Undertake any other Project accounting duties as may be assigned from time to time by the Project Coordinator.
3. VACANCY NO. 3/2024: PROCUREMENT SPECIALIST - ONE (1) POST
The overall objective of this position is to provide the requisite procurement advice and support to the State Department for MSME Development- PIU and other implementing entities to enable the development and implementation of a cost-effective procurement management system for the KJET Project.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
The candidate should have the following desired qualifications and experience:
i. A Bachelor’s Degree in Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Economics, Accounting, Finance, Engineering or equivalent from a recognized institution. Post graduate studies and/or relevant professional qualifications will be an added advantage;
ii. A minimum of at least 10 years relevant experience with at least 5-year working experience in public procurement, particularly in projects financed by the World Bank and other international financial organizations;
iii. Knowledge of international organizations/agencies’ and GoK public procurement regulations and procedures;
iv. Knowledge and experience in the World Bank procurement system, Systematic Tracking of Exchanges in Procurement (STEP) is desirable;
v. Demonstrated interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team environment;
vi. High level of reliability and integrity;
vii. Ability to communicate effectively, prepare, negotiate, analyze, elaborate and present reports;
viii. Excellent computer skills for Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and Internet use; and
ix. Membership to a relevant professional body where applicable.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Procurement Specialist will report to the SDMSME Project Implementation Unit (PIU)- Project Coordinator for day-to-day activities.
The Procurement Specialist will:
i. Be responsible for carrying out procurement functions under the SDMSME PIU in accordance with the procedures specified in the Financing Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Kenya and the International Development Association (IDA);
ii. Prepare an overall procurement plan for all the goods and services to be procured under the Project, specifying allocation of tasks and responsibilities at each stage of the procurement process; review and update the Project Procurement Plan regularly and submit it to the World Bank for review and approval; refer the strategic document, PPSD throughout project implementation and revise as needed;
iii. Ensure that all procurement is done in accordance with the provisions of the Financing Agreement and with IDA’s regulations for Procurement as well as the approval mechanisms of the Government of Kenya’s Procurement Act;
iv. Verify that all proposed purchases are (a) included in the approved procurement plan;(b) eligible for financing under the Credit and confirm the appropriate method to procure goods and services for each contract;
v. Assist procuring entities in all aspects of procurement including the preparation of bidding documents /request for proposals and advertisements;
vi. Work with the procurement entities and technical teams to ensure timely preparation and issuance of technical specifications, Terms of Reference and other related technical documentation necessary to facilitate commencement of procurement processes;
vii. Assemble committees with the participation of representatives from the SDMSME- MCMSME and procuring entities for the opening and evaluation of bids for purchase of goods and services, evaluation of Expressions of Interest and shortlisting/ and evaluation of Requests for Proposals, as well as contract negotiations and awards;
viii. Prepare evaluation reports, contract negotiation minutes, and draft negotiated contracts;
ix. Monitor contract implementation, including issues of claims, disputes, and compensation events;
x. Monitor through STEP the publication of bid notices, request for expression, and contract awards; and upload all necessary documents in to the STEP system. Monitor the timely execution of contracts for consultants’ services and the purchase of goods / equipment including pre-shipment inspections/ tests, and inland transportation and collaborates with the stores on acceptance, storage and delivery;
xi. Works closely with accounts on payments due under procurement contracts and assist in the preparation of payment documents;
xii. Prepare and submit quarterly and annual progress reports on status of procurement under the Project to the Project Coordinator for inclusion in the PIU’s project implementation progress reports;
xiii. Acts as a custodian of procurement documents and ensures systematic procurement filing system in the PIU;
xiv. Participate in procurement training courses, if necessary, and ensure that the PIU adopts and adheres to any relevant changes in procurement procedures and guidelines, introduced by the GoK and/or the World Bank;
xv. Identify indicators of fraud, collusion and other unethical practices in procurement/selection process; ensure procurement, contract management and related complaints are properly handled;
xvi. Monitor and assist in the timely response to all procurement related complaints including registration and closure in STEP; and
xvii. Carry out any other procurement related function as shall be assigned by the Project Coordinator.
4. VACANCY NO. 4/2024: MONITORING AND EVALUATION SPECIALIST - ONE (1) POST
The primary objective of this position is to develop and implement a robust Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) system that effectively tracks, assesses, and reports on the project's progress and outcomes. The M&E system should be designed to enable systematic tracking, facilitate assessment and reporting, support Evidence-Based Decision-Making, promote accountability and transparency, and enhance learning and adaptation.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
The candidate should possess the following desired qualifications and experience:
i. A Bachelor’s Degree in Monitoring and Evaluation, Development Economics, Statistics, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field from a recognized institution;
ii. A Master’s Degree in Monitoring and Evaluation, Development Economics, Statistics, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field from a recognized institution;
iii. At least 6 years of professional experience in Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E), with a demonstrated history of designing, implementing, and managing M&E systems and frameworks;
iv. Strong ability to analyze and interpret complex data sets, identify trends, and provide actionable insights for decision-making;
v. Expertise in developing and validating baseline measurements and indicators for results monitoring and impact evaluation;
vi. Advanced skills in drafting detailed, clear, and concise reports and presentations suitable for diverse stakeholders;
vii. Experience in M&E roles within World Bank projects or other international development initiatives funded by global entities is required;
viii. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively;
ix. Competence in identifying, assessing, and managing risks, with a strategic approach to mitigating potential issues;
x. Effective in working collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams, fostering a supportive and productive work environment;
xi. Ability to produce reader-friendly documents that simplify complex findings for various audiences, including the general public;
xii. Excellent command of English, both written and spoken, with meticulous attention to detail;
xiii. Strong organizational and administrative skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, work under pressure, and meet tight deadlines independently;
xiv. Advanced proficiency in IT tools such as Word, Excel, Access, and M&E systems; and
xv. High level of reliability and integrity; and
xvi. Membership to a relevant professional body where applicable.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will report to the SDMSME Project Implementation Unit (PIU)- Project Coordinator for day-to-day activities.
The Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Specialist will:
i. Design a sound project M&E Strategy that includes all activities, outputs, outcomes, indicators, data collection methods, timing, and costs (leveraging on input from all relevant project PIUs and beneficiaries);
ii. Establish a Management Information System (MIS) that keeps track of all project activities, results, and lessons learned;
iii. Assist in defining monitoring and evaluation requirements at the different levels of project implementation;
iv. Validate the baseline measurements of the Project Development Objective (PDO) matrix included in the Project Appraisal Document and agreed between the Government and the World Bank;
v. Ensure timely collection of data as envisioned in the M&E Framework;
vi. Manage or supervise external consultants to ensure data collection (or surveys) with quality, accuracy, and adequacy in a timely manner;
vii. Conduct analysis of monitoring data, documents findings from monitoring and evaluation activities and submit monitoring reports to the Project Coordinator;
viii. Contribute to the Quarterly PIU report regarding M&E;
ix. Ensure that the Annual Work Plan reflects the goals of the Results Monitoring Matrix;
x. Provide technical inputs on monitoring and evaluation parameters to improve planning, programming and implementation of project;
xi. Communicate concerns, issues as informed through the M&E execution process to Project Coordinator and seek solutions in a timely manner;
xii. Work closely with the World Bank, SDMSME PIU and other implementing entities, project beneficiaries and various consultants and project/sub-project stakeholders to ensure that data collected for purposes of performance evaluation is credible and of high quality;
xiii. Support the PIU and beneficiary institutions by leading coordination of baseline data collection, monthly, quarterly, periodic and annual progress/ monitoring reports on all operational activities;
xiv. Develop in-depth knowledge of monitoring and evaluation system of capacity development operations to guide performance tracking activities of staff with M&E responsibilities in project beneficiary entities;
xv. Assist PIU to develop realistic strategic action and work plans, making sure that M&E is mainstreamed into PIU daily works; and
xvi. Undertake any other tasks assigned by the Project Coordinator for the achievement of the overall project objectives.
5. VACANCY NO. 5/2024: COMMUNICATION SPECIALIST - ONE (1) POST
The main objective of this assignment is to develop and oversee implementation of a comprehensive communication strategy for the KJET Project to enable the State Department for MSME Development- PIU and other KJET implementing entities to effectively engage with its various stakeholders.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
The candidate should have the following desired qualifications and experience:
i. A Bachelor’s Degree in Communication, Mass Media, Public Relations or a related field from a recognized institution;
ii. A Master’s Degree in Communication, Mass Media, Public Relations or a related field from a recognized institution;
iii. A minimum of ten (10) years of professional experience in communication work in senior management of a communication function;
iv. Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing successful public communication strategies and campaigns;
v. Demonstrated experience in the preparation and implementation of public communications plan for infrastructure development projects;
vi. Outstanding communication skills both in written and spoken medium with a strong command of English and Kiswahili languages;
vii. Strong interpersonal and team skills;
viii. High level of reliability and integrity; and
ix. Membership to a relevant professional body where applicable.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Communications Specialist will report to the SDMSME Project Implementation Unit (PIU)- Project Coordinator for day-to-day activities.
The Communication Specialist will:
i. Create Awareness on KJET Project through appropriate outreach products;
ii. Develop information material (Fliers, brochures, FAQs, Presentations, documentaries) to highlight the progress of the KJET;
iii. Manage and coordinate production of various information to build understanding and support of the project;
iv. Respond to queries on KJET project by prospective investors, private sector, public agencies and the citizenry;
v. Develop press releases, fact sheets, holding statements and newspaper supplements to keep the media and the country well informed of the KJET agenda;
vi. Co-ordinate and manage Public Notices, Advertisements and Promotional Campaigns as may be required from time to time;
vii. Co-ordinate media appearances/interviews for resource persons in KJET Implementing Entities;
viii. Manage any crisis communication that may arise including drafting responses to misinformation in the media;
ix. Positively highlight results and achievements of the KJET project; and
x. Perform any other duties as may be assigned by the Programme Coordinator.
6. VACANCY NO. 6/2024: ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST - ONE (1) POST
The objective of this assignment is to provide support and expertise to the State Department for MSME Development- PIU and other KJET Implementing Entities in ensuring that preparation and implementation of project interventions adhere to environmental, health and safety requirements, specifically the Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA) 1999; (amended 2015) and the World Bank Environment and Social Framework.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
The candidate should have the following desired qualifications and experience:
i. A Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Social Sciences, or related field from a recognized institution;
ii. A Master's Degree in Environmental Sciences, Environmental Management, or other relevant related disciplines from a recognized institution;
iii. A minimum of 5 years of demonstrated professional experience (including 2 similar assignments) in various aspects of environmental risk management;
iv. Specific experience on environmental issues including but not limited to environmental risk assessment, preparation of environmental management plans and instruments, climate change, mitigation and adaptation, and environmental audits for projects of similar nature;
v. Must be a Registered Lead Expert with National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) or accredited by a reputable and recognized agency and be in good standing;
vi. Demonstration of good understanding of the relevant national laws related to environmental safeguards, including the EMCA, 1999 (amended 2015), the World Bank Environment and Social Framework (ESF), and the Environment and Social Standards (ESS);
vii. Excellent computer skills in Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and Internet use, including database use is required;
viii. Experience in developing and delivering capacity building workshops, training programs, and awareness-raising initiatives on environmental and social topics is beneficial; and
ix. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders from diverse backgrounds are essential for fostering collaboration, trust, and positive relationships throughout the project lifecycle.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The Environmental Specialist will report to the SDMSME Project Implementation Unit (PIU)- Project Coordinator for day-to-day activities.
The Environmental Specialist will:
i. Mainstream the Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA 1999; amended 2015) and other relevant national laws and regulations requirements into the Project;
ii. Oversee the implementation of the project E&S instruments including; Environment and Social Commitment Plan (ESCP), the Environment and Social Management Framework (ESMF), Labour Management Procedures (LMP), Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP), the Grievance Redress Mechanism, (GRM) and sub-project ESMPs;
iii. Undertake the environmental and social screening of sub-projects which includes the identification of environmental and social issues that need to be considered in the planning, design, implementation, and operation phase of the sub-projects. Assist in environmental risk categorization of project’s activities;
iv. Support in the review of the Environment and Social Impact Assessment reports/ Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESIA/ESMP) (either the Summary Project Report or comprehensive Project Report (CPR) based on the screening outcome. Ensure that such plans are approved by the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA) before implementation;
v. Participate in regular field visits to assess and monitor Environmental, Social, Health, and Safety (ESHS) compliance with ESMPs during the implementation of sub-projects to monitor ESHS measures and ensure mitigation measures are implemented as described and intended in the approved safeguard instruments;
vi. Prepare monthly and quarterly Environmental, Social, Health, and Safety monitoring reports for the implementation of the sub-projects and ensure that timely actions are taken. Submit the reports to the SDMSME and the World Bank;
vii. Provide technical assistance, capacity building, and training on environment, social, health, and safety risk management to various participants including the PIUs and the MSMEs;
viii. As required, undertake Environment and Social Audit for selected sub-projects as advised by the technical lead, and
ix. Any other duties assigned by the Program Coordinator.