Background information about the job or company (e.g., role context, company overview)

The Laikipia County Government is seeking a highly qualified and experienced Chief Veterinary Officer to lead its veterinary services department. This is a senior leadership position responsible for the overall strategic direction, management, and delivery of veterinary public health and animal welfare services within the county. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in safeguarding animal health, preventing zoonotic diseases, and promoting the economic development of the livestock sector in Laikipia.

Responsibilities or duties

The Chief Veterinary Officer will be responsible for:

• Developing and implementing county-wide veterinary policies, strategies, and programs.
• Overseeing the provision of veterinary clinical services, disease surveillance, and control measures.
• Ensuring the enforcement of animal welfare standards and regulations.
• Managing and supervising the veterinary services team, including veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and support staff.
• Collaborating with national and international stakeholders, including government agencies, research institutions, and NGOs.
• Managing the budget for the veterinary services department and ensuring efficient resource allocation.
• Providing expert advice to the county government on all matters related to animal health and veterinary public health.
• Promoting public awareness and education on animal health, disease prevention, and responsible animal ownership.

Qualifications or requirements (e.g., education, skills)

Candidates must possess:

• A Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine (BVM) degree from a recognized university.
• A Master's degree in Veterinary Public Health, Epidemiology, Animal Science, or a related field is an added advantage.
• Registration with the Kenya Veterinary Board (KVB).
• Proven leadership and management skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and analytical skills.
• Knowledge of relevant national and international veterinary policies and legislation.

Experience needed

A minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience in veterinary practice, public health, or animal health management, with at least 3 years in a senior management or leadership role.

Any other provided details (e.g., benefits, work environment, team info, or additional notes)

This is a full-time position within the Laikipia County Government. Competitive remuneration and benefits package will be offered to the successful candidate. The role offers an opportunity to make a significant impact on animal health and public well-being in Laikipia County.

• Developing and implementing county-wide veterinary policies, strategies, and programs.
• Overseeing the provision of veterinary clinical services, disease surveillance, and control measures.
• Ensuring the enforcement of animal welfare standards and regulations.
• Managing and supervising the veterinary services team, including veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and support staff.
• Collaborating with national and international stakeholders, including government agencies, research institutions, and NGOs.
• Managing the budget for the veterinary services department and ensuring efficient resource allocation.
• Providing expert advice to the county government on all matters related to animal health and veterinary public health.
• Promoting public awareness and education on animal health, disease prevention, and responsible animal ownership.

• Proven leadership and management skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and analytical skills.
• Knowledge of relevant national and international veterinary policies and legislation.

• A Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine (BVM) degree from a recognized university.
• A Master's degree in Veterinary Public Health, Epidemiology, Animal Science, or a related field is an added advantage.
• Registration with the Kenya Veterinary Board (KVB).