Director, Corporate Communications

Role Overview

This leadership position sits at the heart of the electoral commission’s public face, shaping how citizens, media, and stakeholders receive and understand electoral information. The role directs the full corporate communications function, from media engagement and crisis messaging to internal coordination and digital presence, ensuring every communication is accurate, timely, and aligned with the institution’s mandate. Day-to-day work involves reviewing official statements, overseeing media coverage of electoral events, guiding public awareness campaigns, and advising senior leadership on communication strategy in a high-stakes, constantly evolving environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the creation, rollout, and periodic revision of communication policies, protocols, strategies, and procedures that govern both internal and external information flow across the commission.
• Direct media relations by organising press conferences, briefings, and electoral coverage, including accreditation of journalists and handling of media inquiries.
• Oversee all official communication channels, including digital platforms, to deliver real-time updates and ensure consistent, accessible public information about electoral processes.
• Drive the development and implementation of the crisis communication framework, preparing responsive messaging and coordinating communication during sensitive or high-pressure events.
• Plan and manage public education campaigns and customer experience programs that help citizens understand and participate in electoral activities.
• Monitor media coverage and public sentiment, producing intelligence reports and briefs that inform the commission’s decisions and communication approach.
• Review and finalise speeches, press releases, advisories, statements, and talking points for the Commission Secretary or CEO, while also arranging photographic and video documentation of official activities.
• Supervise directorate planning, budgeting, resource allocation, and staff performance, including capacity building and setting measurable targets.

Requirements & Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Corporate Communications, Mass Communication, Journalism, Media Studies, International Relations, Governance, Peace and Conflict Resolution, Marketing, or a recognised equivalent.
• A master’s degree in one of the above fields or a closely related discipline from an accredited institution.
• Active membership in a relevant professional body, with a good standing record.
• At least fifteen years of cumulative professional experience, including three years in a senior management role within communications or a related function.
• Completion of a leadership and management course of no less than two weeks’ duration.
• A certificate in computer applications.
• Demonstrated professional competence, administrative capability, and the ability to coordinate a complex communications function effectively.
• Full compliance with the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya, including leadership, integrity, and ethical standards.