Assistant Manager – Research & Development

About the role

The Assistant Manager – Research & Development will provide senior support in shaping the corporation’s research, strategy and innovation agenda, delivering data‑driven insights and guiding product development to enhance competitive positioning. Reporting to the Manager of Research and Development, the role combines strategic planning, market intelligence, statistical modelling and team coordination.

Key responsibilities

• Participate in the development and review of corporate strategic and business plans, budgets and policies, ensuring alignment with the corporation’s objectives.
• Coordinate research, market intelligence and innovation activities, including PESTEL, SWOT and competitor analyses, to generate insights that give the corporation a competitive edge.
• Design, develop and maintain statistical and revenue forecasting models for premium forecasts and business performance optimisation.
• Lead new product development by identifying gaps through primary and secondary research, advising on appropriate methodologies and recommending next steps.
• Promote effective procedures and capacity‑building initiatives within the Research and Analytics team.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in strategic management, economics, statistics, commerce or related fields; registered member of the Statistical Society of Kenya or equivalent, a management course of at least four weeks, and proficiency in computer applications.
• At least twelve years of relevant experience, including three years in a supervisory role within a reputable organisation, with demonstrated merit, managerial capability and professional competence reflected in work performance and results.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, stakeholder management, analytical, negotiation and problem‑solving abilities; ability to work under pressure, meet tight deadlines and fulfil the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution of Kenya.