Head of Programmes – Kenya

About the role

LSTM Kenya is seeking a senior Head of Programmes to lead a multi‑million‑dollar health research portfolio. Based in Kisumu, the role involves national and international travel and reports to the Chief Operating Officer.

Key responsibilities

• Represent LSTM with government agencies, funders, research partners and international stakeholders.
• Act as senior operational liaison across internal and external parties.
• Develop programme KPIs, performance frameworks and support organisational design.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, ethics and data‑governance requirements.
• Lead project meetings, contribute to steering committees and oversee work‑plans.
• Manage financial aspects of research grants, including budgeting, forecasting and reporting.
• Establish consistent programme management standards, tools and processes.
• Maintain donor compliance and audit readiness.

Required profile

• Master’s degree level or equivalent sector experience.
• Professional training in programme or project management.
• Extensive experience managing large, multi‑partner health research programmes.
• Background in clinical‑trial administration and quality assurance.
• Proven success managing research grants in academic, clinical or NGO settings.
• Strong leadership, communication and stakeholder‑engagement abilities.
• Excellent financial, analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Willingness to travel nationally and internationally.

Required skills

• Project management
• Financial management
• Budgeting
• Forecasting
• Financial reporting

What we offer

• Competitive salary
• Full‑time fixed‑term contract until 31/12/2028 (possible extension)
• Opportunity to shape impactful health research in a high‑performing environment