Principal Insurance Officer

The Geothermal Development Company (GDC) is seeking a highly skilled Principal Legal Services Officer to join its Legal Services Department. This is a senior-level role designed for an experienced legal professional who is passionate about contributing to the advancement of Kenya’s geothermal energy sector. This position plays a strategic role in ensuring legal compliance, effective contract management, and strong governance across the organization.

Key Job Information

• Position: Principal Legal Services Officer
• Location: Kenya
• Employment Type: Permanent & Pensionable
• Experience Level: Senior / Supervisory
• Salary Range: KES 170,000 – KES 260,000
• Job Reference Number: GDC/HRM/CSLS/LS/PLSO/01/2025

About Geothermal Development Company (GDC)

The Geothermal Development Company is a state corporation mandated to develop Kenya’s vast geothermal resources for power generation and direct-use applications. As one of the most influential organizations in the renewable energy sector, GDC is at the forefront of driving national energy security, sustainability, and economic growth.

GDC continues to expand its operations and strengthen its internal governance structures to support strategic national objectives. The Legal Services Department is central to this mission, ensuring the organization remains compliant with the law, adheres to best governance practices, manages legal risks, and maintains strong stakeholder relationships.

With a strong commitment to innovation, professionalism, and operational excellence, GDC offers a unique work environment that encourages continuous learning, career growth, and the opportunity to contribute to Kenya’s transition to clean energy.

Job Description

The Principal Legal Services Officer provides technical legal leadership in drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts; overseeing compliance matters; supporting litigation; and ensuring the organization’s legal interests are protected. This senior position supports the Manager – Legal Services and helps guide legal strategy, contract administration, insurance management, and corporate governance frameworks.

This role is essential in ensuring that GDC’s legal and regulatory obligations are fulfilled in alignment with the Companies Act, public sector policies, and industry best practices. The officer will also participate in legal research, handle sensitive legal matters, collaborate with external counsel, and engage internal teams to strengthen organizational compliance and legal awareness.

Key Responsibilities

• Review complex and high-risk legal matters to assess potential threats and provide expert guidance on risk mitigation.
• Offer legal advice and technical support across all departments to ensure adherence to statutory and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure effective management of the company’s insurance portfolio, including cost optimization and coverage adequacy.
• Lead debt recovery processes involving former employees and ensure all legal avenues are pursued.
• Draft, vet, and negotiate contracts, leases, formal agreements, and other legal instruments to safeguard the organization’s interests.
• Monitor legal research developments, participate in governance programs, and support continuous service improvement.
• Draft, interpret, and implement legal documents, policies, regulations, and rulings relevant to GDC.
• Maintain and oversee relationships with external legal counsel and ensure effective contractual agreements.
• Gather and evaluate evidence for legal proceedings involving GDC, ensuring strong legal defense or initiation of action.
• Conduct legal research, prepare briefs and opinions, and develop sound defence strategies for litigation.
• Assess staff performance, identify capacity gaps, and implement targeted legal training programs.
• Maintain accurate company records in compliance with statutory obligations, including the Companies Act.
• Liaise with the Attorney General’s Chambers, Registrar General, law enforcement bodies, and relevant stakeholders during legal proceedings.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum eight (8) years relevant experience, including three (3) years in a supervisory role.
• Master’s degree in a relevant field from a recognized institution.
• Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from a recognized university.
• Supervisory course lasting not less than two (2) weeks.
• Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Studies from the Council of Legal Education.
• Advocate of the High Court of Kenya.
• Membership with LSK and ICPS (K).
• Proficiency in computer applications.
• Compliance with Chapter Six of the Constitution.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in public sector legal departments.
• Familiarity with energy sector regulatory frameworks.
• Knowledge of contract management systems and legal research tools.
• Strong negotiation skills and experience handling high-value agreements.

Benefits and Compensation

GDC provides a competitive, public-sector-aligned compensation package designed to support professional growth and employee well-being. Benefits include pension contributions, medical coverage, paid leave, opportunities for training and development, and long-term career progression in the renewable energy sector.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply using the Apply Now button below. Applicants must upload all required documents, including a CV, cover letter, professional certifications, and Chapter Six compliance documents.