Head of Programmes (LSTM Kenya)

Reference:MAY20262174Expiry date:01:59, Thu, 11th Jun 2026Location:Kisumu, KenyaSalary:CompetitiveBenefits:To be discussedDuration:Fixed term until 31/12/2028 (Possibility of extension subject to funding)Attachments:JobDescription.pdf

Head of Programmes - LSTM Kenya
Location: Based in Kisumu, Kenya (Willingess to travel nationally and internationally)
Salary: Competitive
Contract: Full time, Fixed Term until 31/12/28 (Possibility of extension subject to funding)
Reporting to: Chief Operating Officer

Join our Research Management Services team at one of Africa’s leading health research organisations. We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Head of Programmes to provide programmatic leadership across our expanding, multi-million-dollar research portfolio. Based within Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI’s) Centre for Global Health Research, the incumbent will oversee the delivery of high-impact programmes addressing key global health priorities, including childhood mortality, adverse pregnancy outcomes, malaria prevention, HIV treatment, and diagnostic innovation, ensuring excellence in performance, compliance, and impact.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Represent LSTM with government agencies, funders, and research partners and regional/international stakeholders
• Act as a senior operational liaison across internal and external stakeholders
• Develop programme KPIs and performance frameworks
• Support organisational design, workforce planning, and governance structures

• Ensure compliance with regulatory, ethics, and data governance requirements
• Lead project meetings and contribute to steering committees

• Oversee financial management of research grants, support budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting
• Establish and embed consistent programme management standards, tools, and processes across LSTM Kenya

• Oversee workplans ensuring delivery on time, quality, and budget

• Ensure compliance with donor requirements and audit readiness

Ideally you will demonstrate: 

• Educated to master’s degree level or extensive equivalent sector experience
• Professional training in programme/project management
• Significant experience managing large, multi-partner, or multi-country research programmes within health research
• Experience in the administrative management of clinical trials and research programmes
• Experience in quality assurance across a portfolio of projects
• Experience working in Kenya or similar health research contexts
• Demonstrated success managing research grants in academic, clinical, or NGO settings
• Strong leadership and team management experience
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills
• Strong financial, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage competing priorities and work flexibly
• Willingness to travel nationally and internationally

(For a full list of essential and desirable criteria please refer to the job description and person specification)

Application Process:

Due to the nature of this role, it is an occupational requirement for the successful candidate to be based in Kenya. This is essential to meet the needs of regional expertise. Candidates must have the right to work in Kenya to be considered for this position to comply with local legislation

To apply for the position please follow the apply link and upload your CV and covering letter.

Due to the volume of applications, we receive, we may close our vacancies early. It is therefore advisable to apply as early as possible if you would like to be considered for a role.