Director, Research, Quality Assurance & Planning

How to Apply: Interested and qualified applicants should fill and submit the Application for Employment Form KNEC 2A (External applicants) or KNEC 2B (Internal applicants), along with an application letter, certified copies of academic and professional certificates, a detailed CV with daytime telephone contact, email address, current remuneration (enclose latest pay slip), and names and valid contacts of three referees. Applications should be sent to: The Chief Executive Officer, Kenya National Examinations Council, New Mitihani House, South C, P.O Box 73598-00200, NAIROBI. Ensure your application reaches them on or before 1st September, 2026.

Show Strategic Impact in Your Application

This is a senior leadership role that shapes national assessment policy. Your application must demonstrate not just your qualifications, but your ability to think strategically and lead cross-functional teams.

1. Highlight your strategic leadership: Emphasize your experience in leading research, quality assurance, or planning functions at a senior level. Provide concrete examples of how you have aligned organizational goals with national education policies.

2. Quantify your achievements: Use numbers to show the scale of your impact. For example, mention the size of teams you have led, budgets you have managed, or the number of assessments you have overseen.

3. Show your understanding of the education sector: Demonstrate your knowledge of Kenya's education system, national goals, and international standards. Reference specific policies or frameworks you have worked with.

4. Prepare for competency-based questions: Expect questions on risk management, quality assurance, and stakeholder engagement. Prepare stories that show how you have handled these areas effectively.

5. Emphasize your research and publication record: Since the role oversees research and publications, highlight your own research work, publications, or contributions to the field.

6. Demonstrate your ability to build partnerships: Provide examples of successful collaborations with government bodies, international organizations, or other stakeholders.

7. Show your commitment to continuous improvement: Discuss how you have implemented quality assurance frameworks or improved processes in your previous roles.

8. Align your CV with the job description: Tailor your CV to mirror the responsibilities and requirements listed. Use similar language to make it easy for the hiring committee to see your fit.