Our client, Health Research Operations Kenya Limited (HROKL), the operating entity for the KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme, a world class health research Programme based in Kenya, conducting multi-disciplinary research that spans infectious diseases, vaccines, maternal child and neonatal health, health systems, and emerging health threats. The Programme’s research leverages an integrated platform that includes bioscience laboratories, a clinical trials facility and clinical team, the clinical information network, the Kilifi demographic and health surveillance site, and robust community engagement, generating evidence that informs local and global health policy.

HROKL is looking to hire a research-informed and collaborative Policy Engagement Manager to facilitate the translation of research into policy.

JOB PURPOSE:

This individual will be responsible for bridging the gap between health researchers, policy makers and implementers at national and sub-national levels through engaging relevant stakeholders and communicating evidence-based recommendations to influence research and ensure policy uptake. They will support the development and implementation of policy engagement strategies, facilitate collaborations with local and international partners, and strengthen research uptake through technical guidance, communication, and capacity-building initiatives.

KEY ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead the development, implementation, and periodic review of the Policy Engagement and Research Uptake strategy, maintaining an up-to-date database of local and international policy stakeholders and their engagement platforms.
• Build and maintain relationships with local and international stakeholders, collaborating through meetings, conferences, scientific forums, and ongoing engagement to promote effective policy uptake.
• Develop and disseminate in consultation with the communications team, user-friendly research uptake materials, including policy briefs, news stories, research bulletins, infographics, podcasts, videocasts, and other communication tools tailored to target stakeholders.
• Develop mechanisms to evaluate the uptake and impact of research policies and interventions and identify emerging opportunities to promote the Programme’s research work.
• Provide timely technical advice on policy engagement to staff, management, and stakeholders, recommending updates to policies and procedures as necessary.
• Lead capacity-building initiatives by conducting research, training, and knowledge-sharing sessions on emerging trends, innovations, and new approaches in policy engagement for researchers and staff.
• Design and implement policy engagement projects, providing oversight to ensure timely delivery of objectives within available resources.
• Support internal coordination and communication between research teams and policy stakeholders to facilitate the translation of research findings into actionable policy recommendations.

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS AND CAREER EXPERIENCE:

• A minimum of a Masters degree in Communication, Public Health, Health Policy, Public Policy, or any other relevant field from a recognized university.
•  Minimum 8 years overall experience, Four (4) of which were at managerial level.
• Demonstrable experience in Policy engagement in a multidisciplinary Health Research and/or health other development institution.

Core Competencies:

• Demonstrate high level of understanding and experience in policy making in any sector.
• Demonstrate high levels of integrity and confidentiality.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, presentation and communication skills.
• Ability to work with diverse teams and build strong relationships with all stakeholders.
• Ability to engage with confidence to wide range of audiences including policy holders at all government levels including Ministry of Health, Educational institutions, hospitals, private sector and at the community level to support HROKL’S scientists in the policy making engagements and initiatives.
• Ability to deliver quality outputs within strict timelines.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking and Supervisory skills.
• High level of attention to details 

All applicants are advised to adhere to the application guidelines for consideration. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

NB: Flexi Personnel does not charge candidates for job placement.