About Kenya BioVax Institute
The Kenya BioVax Institute (KBI) is a state corporation under the Ministry of Health established to manufacture, package, and commercialize vaccines, biologics, and other medical products. KBI’s vision is to make Kenya a regional hub for vaccine and biopharmaceutical production, advancing health security through self-reliance and innovation.
As part of its expansion and operational readiness, KBI seeks to recruit a Manager, Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) — a dynamic leader responsible for driving the institute’s environmental sustainability, occupational safety, and regulatory compliance strategies.
Job Summary
Reporting to the Director, Technical Operations, the Manager, Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) will provide strategic leadership in the planning, coordination, implementation, and continuous improvement of occupational health, safety, and environmental programs across KBI’s operations.
This role ensures a safe working environment for all employees and promotes compliance with Kenyan and international SHE standards in vaccine production and related laboratory environments.
Key Responsibilities
1. SHE Policy Development and Implementation
- Formulate, review, and implement Safety, Health, and Environmental policies in alignment with the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA, 2007) and NEMA regulations.
- Establish and maintain internal standards and best practices for laboratory and biomanufacturing safety.
- Integrate sustainability principles into organizational operations to minimize waste and reduce carbon footprint.
2. Compliance and Risk Management
- Ensure full compliance with all relevant national laws, WHO-GMP, ISO 45001, and environmental management standards.
- Identify potential hazards, conduct risk assessments, and implement preventive and corrective actions.
- Manage and maintain statutory records, licenses, and certifications from DOSHS, NEMA, and related regulatory bodies.
3. Safety Culture and Training
- Develop and deliver SHE awareness programs, emergency drills, and targeted staff training to reinforce safety culture.
- Champion behavioral safety initiatives and incident reporting systems that encourage proactive risk management.
- Train and mentor departmental safety representatives to ensure effective implementation at all operational levels.
4. Auditing and Continuous Improvement
- Conduct regular safety audits, inspections, and environmental impact assessments.
- Investigate accidents, near misses, and unsafe conditions to prevent recurrence.
- Implement a continuous improvement framework using KPIs to track SHE performance.
- Prepare periodic reports for management and stakeholders, highlighting trends, risks, and progress.
5. Emergency Preparedness and Response
- Lead the design, testing, and updating of Emergency Response Plans (ERPs) for fire, chemical, biological, and environmental incidents.
- Coordinate with local authorities, fire brigades, and medical facilities for emergency preparedness.
- Ensure availability of first-aid equipment, fire extinguishers, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
6. Leadership and Collaboration
- Collaborate cross-functionally with production, maintenance, and quality teams to align operational goals with safety standards.
- Supervise SHE staff and ensure their development through training and mentorship.
- Represent KBI in SHE-related meetings with government agencies and international partners.