The Public Service Commission (PSC) has announced a call for applications for the position of Principal Secretary (PS).
According to PSC Chairperson Anthony Muchiri, the advertisement follows recent reassignments within the senior ranks of the Executive, specifically among Principal Secretaries.
This development comes amid growing speculation that President William Ruto might soon reorganize his cabinet to align with broader government priorities.
The PSC has set December 4, 2024, as the deadline for applications.
Once applications are received, the PSC will shortlist and interview candidates before forwarding the selected names to President Ruto, who will nominate individuals for the positions to be filled.
The names of the nominees will then be submitted to the National Assembly, where the relevant House committees will vet the candidates in line with their respective dockets.
A Principal Secretary is directly responsible to the Cabinet Secretary and serves as the accounting and authorized officer of their State Department.
Their key responsibilities include implementing government policies and strategic plans, facilitating the achievement of government and inter-governmental goals, and ensuring efficient utilization of resources.
Additionally, they are tasked with developing and implementing performance management systems, submitting statutory reports, and promoting the values outlined in Articles 10 and 232 of the Constitution of Kenya.
The PSC outlined the qualifications for the position, stating that candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree and have at least ten years of work experience, five of which must be in leadership roles within the public or private sector.
Applicants are required to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of government operations and the nation’s development goals, alongside leadership, financial management, and strategic people management capabilities. All candidates must also meet the integrity and leadership standards outlined in Chapter Six of the Constitution.
“Each application should be accompanied by a detailed curriculum vitae, copies of relevant academic and professional certificates and transcripts, National Identity Card or Passport, testimonials and other relevant supporting documents. Scanned copies of these documents must accompany an online application,” the PSC stated.
Manual applications can be hand-delivered to the Office of the Secretary/CEO at the PSC offices located on the 4th floor of Commission House, off Harambee Avenue, Nairobi. Alternatively, online applications in PDF format can be submitted to [email protected].
The PSC confirmed that the names of all applicants, as well as those shortlisted, will be published in the print media once the advertisement closes.
Shortlisted candidates are expected to obtain clearances from the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), a Certificate of Good Conduct from the Directorate of Criminal Investigation, and clearance from a registered Credit Reference Bureau (CRB).
Further details about the application process can be accessed on the Public Service Commission’s website at www.publicservice.go.ke.
