The Open University of Kenya aims to address the pressing issue of limited capacity in traditional universities by employing innovative teaching and learning methodologies, including online and distance education. By leveraging technology and flexible learning modes, the university seeks to accommodate a larger number of qualified students.
This Deputy Director, Human Resource Management role is critical in planning, organizing, coordinating, and administering all Human Resource functions to ensure optimal institutional effectiveness and compliance across the University. The terms of service will be either Permanent and Pensionable OR Contract, as shall be determined by the University Council. OUK is an equal opportunity employer.
Duties & Responsibilities
The duties and responsibilities shall include assisting in the following areas:
- Coordinating the formulation, implementation, monitoring, and review of Human Resource policies, strategies, procedures, rules, and regulations.
- Planning, organizing, coordinating, and administering all Human Resource functions of the University.
- Coordinating staff recruitment, selection, appointment, promotion, deployment, transfers, discipline, separation, and succession planning in accordance with applicable policies and laws.
- Developing and coordinating the implementation of human resource plans, strategies, workforce plans, and skills inventories.
- Advising management on human resource planning, career development, succession management, and review of career guidelines.
- Coordinating organizational development initiatives, job evaluation, and job reviews to ensure optimal institutional effectiveness.
- Coordinating and monitoring staff performance management systems to enhance productivity and institutional performance.
- Coordinating the preparation of annual departmental budgets, personnel emoluments budgets, procurement plans, and ensuring optimal utilization of allocated resources, including training funds.
- Interpreting and ensuring compliance with labour laws, industrial relations frameworks, and all statutory and regulatory requirements.
- Monitoring and managing industrial relations, staff welfare, and employee relations matters in line with best practices.
- Advising on the review of terms and conditions of service and ensuring fair and equitable application across the University.
- Ensuring effective utilization and deployment of human resources to meet institutional goals and operational needs.
- Designing and conducting surveys and assessments to obtain feedback from key stakeholders on Human Resource Management practices.
- Mentoring, coaching, and capacity-building of staff to support professional growth and leadership development.
Required Qualifications and Competencies
For appointment to this grade, one MUST have:
Education & Professional Certification:
- Master’s degree in Public Administration, Business Administration or Human Resource Management or equivalent from an institution recognized in Kenya.
- Bachelor's Degree in Human Resource Management; OR A relevant Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized University with post graduate qualification in Human Resource Management from an institution recognized in Kenya.
- Be a Certified Human Resource Professional.
- A valid practicing certificate from Institute of Human Resource Management.
- Management course lasting not less than four (4) weeks cumulatively.
Experience & Skills:
- At least twelve (12) years’ cumulative relevant work experience, of which three (3) years must be at supervisory level grade 13.
- Outstanding professional competence in administration or Management.
- Member of a recognized professional administration or management body.
- Knowledge of relevant legislation.
- Proficiency in computer applications.
- Satisfy the requirements of Chapter Six of the 2010 Constitution of Kenya on Leadership and Integrity upon successful appointment.