KCAA seeks new director general, sets May 18 deadline

The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has announced a vacancy for the position of Director General, setting out detailed qualifications and responsibilities for the role as it seeks to recruit a new chief executive.

In a public notice issued under the Ministry of Roads and Transport, State Department for Aviation and Aerospace Development, the authority said it is looking for “a qualified Kenyan citizen” to head the organisation.

The Director General will report to the Board of Directors and will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the authority, including coordinating the execution of its mandate under the Civil Aviation Act (CAP 394).

The notice outlines the central role of the Director General in ensuring effective oversight of aviation safety, security and regulatory compliance.

The successful candidate will serve as the link between the Board and management, providing regular communication on technical, financial and administrative matters, while also implementing board decisions and policies.

According to the advertisement, the office holder will oversee the inspection, licensing and certification of aircraft and aviation facilities, and ensure that all safety and security standards are met.

The Director General will also be tasked with developing and implementing strategies to promote safe, secure and efficient use of Kenya’s airspace and aviation infrastructure.

The responsibilities extend to coordinating accident and incident investigations in collaboration with relevant agencies, as well as implementing national aviation safety and security programmes.

The Director General will also be required to manage the authority’s resources prudently, supervise staff, and ensure accountability in financial and operational performance.

In addition, the role includes promoting corporate governance, fostering an ethical work environment, and providing leadership in the development and execution of the authority’s strategic plan, budgets and annual work programmes.

The successful candidate will also represent the authority in engagements with regional and international civil aviation organisations.

"To qualify for the position, applicants must have at least 15 years of relevant work experience, including a minimum of 10 years in management and technical roles within the civil aviation sector," read the notice.

"Candidates are required to hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Civil Aviation Management, Aeronautical Engineering, Electrical or Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Economics, Business Administration, Management or Law from a recognised university."

A master’s degree in a related discipline is also required. In addition, applicants must have professional qualifications and membership to a relevant professional body where applicable, and demonstrate a clear understanding of the aviation industry and the legal and regulatory framework governing it.

The notice further specifies familiarity with key legislation, including the Public Finance Management Act, 2012, the Public Procurement and Asset Disposal Act, 2015, the Civil Aviation Act (CAP 394), and the Code of Governance for State Corporations (Mwongozo). Candidates must also meet the requirements of Chapter Six of the Constitution on leadership and integrity.

Other requirements include Kenyan citizenship, proficiency in computer applications, and completion of a leadership course lasting at least four weeks from a recognised institution, which will be considered an added advantage.

The authority is also seeking candidates with strong personal attributes, including analytical ability, communication and interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, conflict resolution, negotiation skills, and leadership and management capability.

Interested applicants are required to submit their applications, including certified copies of academic and professional certificates, testimonials and a detailed curriculum vitae with references. Applications must be submitted in soft copy and addressed to the Chairman of the Board of Directors of KCAA.

The deadline for submission is May 18, 2026. KCAA noted that it is an equal opportunity employer and encouraged female candidates and persons with disabilities to apply. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

The successful candidate will serve a four-year term, with the possibility of reappointment for one additional term based on the recommendation of the Board.