The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has declared a vacancy in the office of the Chief Executive Officer in compliance with the government’s directive on term limits.
The new office holder is set to replace Charles Ringera who has served for two terms.
He has been at the helm of the agency since March 2013.
The move by HELB to advertise the position aligns with the pronouncement by Head of Public Service Felix Koskei that all CEOs and parastatal heads must serve for only two terms.
He spoke during a consultative meeting with ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) on September 21,
"We are here for a season...in the boards, the maximum is two terms. We have also said there is no third term for CEOs, two terms if you can't do anything, just go do something else," he said.
Five years ago, former Head of Public Service Joseph Kinyua announced that the government had scrapped age and term limits for CEOs of state corporations.
The directive meant CEOs could be re-appointed as many times as the appointing authority deemed fit and work beyond the mandatory retirement age of 60.
The removal of term limits was contained in a circular issued by Kinyua dated February 27, 2018, and titled ‘Terms of Service for State Corporation’s Chief Executive Officers’.
"The Government has noted lack of clarity on terms of service for chief executive officers of state corporations and concerns at service period, which in some instance has led to litigation,” read the circular copied to all Cabinet Secretaries, the Attorney General and all principal secretaries.
In the advertisement, HELB said the job holder will be responsible for overall leadership, strategic and operational direction to enable the institution achieve its short and long-term objectives.
“The job holder will spearhead the design of institutional structures, enhance fintech optimisation, drive customer-centred leadership and sustainability, oversee human capital initiatives, and promote and uphold good corporate governance,” it states.
The CEO who doubles up as the Board secretary will also ensure prudent financial management, informed risk management and compliance with relevant laws, regulations and resource mobilisation.
Applications from qualified and interested applicants are to be received not later than December 17, 2024.
