Director General

Kenya Fisheries Service (KeFS) is seeking to recruit a visionary and experienced Director General to lead the institution in fulfilling its national mandate of managing, developing, and regulating Kenya’s fisheries resources for sustainable use and economic growth. This role represents one of the most senior leadership opportunities in Kenya’s blue economy and fisheries management sector.

Key Job Information

• Position: Director General
• Organization: Kenya Fisheries Service (KeFS)
• Vacancy No.: KeFS/HR/01/25
• Job Grade: KF 1
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Employment Type: Contract – Three (3) Years
• Experience Level: Executive / Senior Management
• Application Deadline: 5th November 2025

About Kenya Fisheries Service (KeFS)

The Kenya Fisheries Service (KeFS) is a State Corporation established under the Fisheries Management and Development Act, 2016, under the Ministry of Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs. The Service is mandated to conserve, manage, and develop Kenya’s fisheries resources to ensure food security, create employment, and enhance economic growth within the blue economy framework.

Headquartered at the SHA Building on Ragati Road in Nairobi, KeFS plays a critical role in implementing national fisheries policies, enforcing compliance with fisheries regulations, and promoting sustainable exploitation of aquatic resources in both marine and inland waters. The Service collaborates with local and international partners to strengthen research, innovation, and investment in the fisheries sector.

KeFS upholds values of integrity, professionalism, accountability, and environmental stewardship. It offers a dynamic and mission-driven environment where highly skilled professionals can contribute to Kenya’s vision of a thriving and sustainable blue economy.

Job Description

The Director General will serve as the chief executive officer and accounting officer of Kenya Fisheries Service, responsible for the strategic leadership and operational management of the organization. This role involves implementing the Service’s policies and strategic plans, ensuring efficient resource utilization, maintaining regulatory compliance, and promoting stakeholder collaboration within Kenya’s fisheries and maritime sectors.

The position demands a results-oriented leader capable of driving policy innovation, managing multidisciplinary teams, and steering large-scale programs that enhance fisheries governance, conservation, and development in alignment with national goals and international standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and policy direction for the effective implementation of the Service’s mandate.
• Oversee the formulation and execution of fisheries development programs, research initiatives, and management frameworks.
• Ensure compliance with the Fisheries Management and Development Act, 2016, and other relevant legislation.
• Develop and maintain strong partnerships with local and international stakeholders in the blue economy sector.
• Supervise and guide the institution’s management team and staff to achieve operational excellence and performance targets.
• Ensure prudent financial management, accountability, and optimal resource utilization across all departments.
• Coordinate data-driven fisheries management and promote the adoption of sustainable and innovative practices.
• Represent the organization in government forums, development partner engagements, and regional fisheries initiatives.
• Report regularly to the Board of Directors on institutional performance, risks, and opportunities for growth.

Required Qualifications

• Must be a Kenyan citizen with a high level of integrity and leadership capability.
• Possess a Master’s degree in Fisheries Science, Marine Science, Aquatic Resources Management, Environmental Science, or a related field from a recognized university.
• Hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline.
• Minimum of fifteen (15) years of progressive experience in fisheries, marine resources, or natural resource management, with at least five (5) years in a senior management or executive role.
• Demonstrated experience in organizational leadership, policy formulation, program implementation, and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong knowledge of Kenya’s fisheries policies, legal frameworks, and blue economy strategies.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working within a government agency, state corporation, or international development organization.
• Membership in a recognized professional body related to fisheries, marine, or environmental management.
• Proven ability to manage large budgets, multidisciplinary teams, and strategic institutional partnerships.
• Strong analytical, communication, and decision-making skills.
• Advanced training in leadership, corporate governance, or project management will be an added advantage.

Benefits and Compensation

The position offers a competitive executive remuneration package in line with public sector guidelines, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Additional benefits include:

• Performance-based contract renewal subject to Board evaluation.
• Comprehensive medical insurance cover.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and executive leadership training.
• Exposure to national and regional policy-making in fisheries and blue economy management.
• Engagement in high-impact national projects contributing to Kenya’s Vision 2030 and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

How to Apply

Interested and qualified candidates should apply using the official Kenya Fisheries Service Application for Employment Form (Version CEO:2022) available for download at www.kefs.go.ke. Applicants must attach a detailed cover letter highlighting relevant experience, key competencies, and achievements.

Completed application forms and cover letters should be addressed to:

The Chairman, Board of Directors
Kenya Fisheries Service (KeFS)
P.O. Box 48511–00100
Nairobi, Kenya

Submit your application via email to [email protected] or hand-deliver to KeFS Headquarters, SHA Building, 13th Floor, Ragati Road, Nairobi, no later than 5th November 2025.

Please Note:

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Shortlisted applicants must present original academic and professional certificates during the interview.
• Applicants are advised to attach only relevant supporting documents.
• Canvassing in any form will lead to automatic disqualification.
• Kenya Fisheries Service is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Interested candidates should apply using the Apply Now button below.