Assistant Director, Research and Planning

The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) is seeking an experienced Assistant Director, Research and Planning to lead strategic initiatives, research activities, and performance management frameworks. This role is central to advancing HELB’s corporate strategy, monitoring and evaluation, innovation, and knowledge management functions.

Key Job Information

• Position: Assistant Director, Research and Planning
• Reference Number: HELB/012 – Grade 4
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Employment Type: Contract (up to three years, renewable subject to performance)
• Experience Level: Senior Management
• Application Deadline: As communicated by HELB

About Higher Education Loans Board (HELB)

The Higher Education Loans Board is a government agency dedicated to financing higher education and training for Kenyan students. HELB promotes equitable access to education, supports skills development, and contributes to national growth through innovative financing and strategic programs.

Professionals exploring careers at HELB join an organization recognized for strong governance, strategic planning, and commitment to evidence-based decision-making. HELB fosters a culture of innovation, research, and performance excellence while enabling staff to contribute to impactful public service initiatives.

Assistant Director, Research and Planning Job Description

The Assistant Director, Research and Planning coordinates strategic planning, research, performance management, and knowledge management processes. The role ensures effective formulation and implementation of policies, alignment with government priorities, and continuous monitoring and evaluation of HELB’s corporate objectives. This position represents one of the top job opportunities at HELB for senior professionals seeking leadership roles in strategic management, research, and organizational development.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate development and implementation of HELB’s corporate strategy and ensure alignment with government policies.
• Analyze key performance indicators and prepare departmental plans and programs in line with the corporate mission.
• Oversee Performance Contracting processes and provide timely feedback reports to relevant departments.
• Monitor and evaluate execution of programs, projects, and the corporate performance contract, ensuring corrective actions are implemented.
• Develop and implement research strategies, including designing surveys, data analysis, and preparation of actionable reports.
• Coordinate development and review of organizational policies, guidelines, procedures, and manuals.
• Manage outsourced research activities and ensure dissemination of research findings to inform decision-making.
• Supervise development of corporate innovation strategies and the annual innovation plan, promoting an innovative organizational culture.
• Establish and maintain knowledge management systems, including online and physical resource centers for effective information storage and retrieval.
• Carry out business intelligence activities and environmental analysis to support strategic planning and policy development.
• Align budget planning cycles with strategic plans and corporate objectives.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of twelve years relevant work experience, including three years as Principal Planning Officer or equivalent.
• Bachelor’s degree in Economics, Statistics, Mathematics with Economics, Strategic Management, Business Development, Development Studies, Business Administration, or related field.
• Master’s degree in one of the above fields.
• Leadership course lasting not less than four weeks from a recognized institution.
• Membership in a relevant professional body in good standing, where applicable.
• Valid practicing certificate where applicable.
• Certificate in computer applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proven experience in strategic planning, performance management, and research coordination in public or private sector.
• Demonstrated analytical, innovative, and strategic thinking skills.
• Strong project management, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and deliver under pressure.

Benefits and Compensation

The role offers a competitive public sector remuneration package, exposure to strategic leadership, and opportunities for professional development. Candidates seeking job opportunities today at HELB benefit from a collaborative work environment, leadership growth, and the chance to contribute to national higher education financing initiatives.

How to Apply for Assistant Director, Research and Planning Job Opportunity at HELB

Qualified candidates interested in the latest jobs at HELB are encouraged to apply for this senior strategic role today. Applications should include a job application letter, detailed curriculum vitae, certified copies of academic and professional certificates, and relevant testimonials quoting the job title and reference number.

Soft copy applications must be submitted via email to [email protected]. Shortlisted candidates will be required to present valid Chapter Six compliance documentation during the recruitment process.

HELB is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from women, youth, marginalized communities, and persons with disabilities. This vacancy represents one of the premier research and planning opportunities in Nairobi within a mission-driven public sector institution.