Driver S1, British Defence Staff East Africa

Job Description (Roles and Responsibilities)  

Main purpose of job:

To provide transport services for the Defence Section, British Defence Staff, and related visitors to the Defence Section. On occasion, the post holder may be required to provide driving services in support of the British High Commission (BHC) and, more widely, on a case-by-case basis. Journeys will be to and from assigned destinations within Kenya.

Driving duties must be carried out in a safe, efficient, and courteous manner, with strict adherence to road traffic regulations, Ministry of Defence Transport Policy, Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Transport Policy, British High Commission Transport Policy, and Post security regulations. Where there is any disparity between policies or regulations, the more stringent requirement will apply.

This is an exciting opportunity to work in one of Nairobi's largest diplomatic missions, providing all-round logistical support to the Defence Section. The successful applicant must hold a clean driving licence with Category C1 entitlement and have a minimum of five years' driving experience. Applicants are also required to have a good working knowledge of Nairobi, its surrounding areas, and other regions of Kenya.

The successful candidate will need to be highly organised and efficient in managing their time within a dynamic environment that is subject to change at short notice. They should be able to plan ahead, identify and select the most suitable routes for each journey, demonstrate initiative, and maintain the highest levels of discretion and professionalism. The individual must also be courteous in all interactions with internal and external stakeholders, acting as a representative of the Defence Section at all times.

Roles and responsibilities:

• Work as part of a two-person Driver team supporting the Defence Section and British Defence Staff.
• Ensure the cleanliness, maintenance, and professional presentation of Defence Section vehicle(s) at all times.
• Conduct routine maintenance checks on Defence Section vehicles in accordance with the prescribed schedule. Ensure vehicles are roadworthy before commencing any journey by carrying out checks on tyres, fuel, oil levels, lubricants, spare tyres, jacks, and all mandatory safety equipment.
• Report vehicle defects, incidents, and accidents promptly using the prescribed reporting procedures, documentation, and systems.
• Drive both armoured and non-armoured Defence Section vehicles as required.
• Meet and transport authorised passengers to and from airports, meetings, official engagements, and functions.
• Accurately complete all official documentation relating to Defence Section vehicle journeys, including Expressway credit management records.
• Work in accordance with an agreed shift pattern, including periods of being on call and occasional weekend working. There may also be a requirement to undertake occasional multi-day trips. Maximum driving hours will be in accordance with Ministry of Defence policy.
• Ensure the safety and security of passengers by confirming that seat belts are worn and, where armoured vehicles are used, that passengers receive an appropriate safety and security brief.
• Prepare and maintain a documented journey plan for long-distance travel. Be familiar with the operation of issued tracking devices, radios, and satellite telephones where applicable.
• As directed, maintain communication with the Defence Section and/or British High Commission using the provided communications equipment and ensure that installed dashboard cameras are operated correctly.
• Maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion with regard to all passengers, journeys, destinations, and official information.
• Undertake other duties as agreed with the Defence Section, including, but not limited to, providing cover for colleagues during periods of authorised absence.

Essential qualifications, skills and experience  

• Ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing.
• Valid Police Clearance Certificate issued by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Kenya.
• Hold a clean and valid driving licence with the appropriate endorsement for driving Category C vehicles.
• Good knowledge of Nairobi's road network, the locations of government offices, and the principal routes to other parts of Kenya.
• Minimum of a Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) or equivalent secondary school qualification.
• At least five years' experience working as a driver within a government, non-governmental organisation (NGO), corporate, or office environment.

Desirable qualifications, skills and experience  

• Experience driving civilian armoured vehicles (CAVs).
• Working knowledge of the Kenyan military and the Ministry of Defence.
• Experience of working with UK Government organisations, such as British Peace Support Team (Africa) (BPST(A)), British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK), and the British High Commission (BHC) Nairobi.
• At least two years' experience working in, or in support of, a diplomatic mission, international organisation, or non-governmental organisation (NGO).
• Experience of working with UK Five Eyes partners.
• Good IT and computer skills would be advantageous.
• A recognised First Aid certificate.

Required behaviours  

• Changing and Improving, Making Effective Decisions, Managing a Quality Service, Working Together