The Commission on Tuesday announced that it is recruiting a Commissioner General who will also serve as Chief Executive Officer, responsible for running the authority and guiding its long-term direction. According to the notice, the person appointed will oversee daily operations, manage the institution’s funds and assets, and provide leadership to staff while ensuring all work aligns with its mandate and goals. "KRA seeks to recruit the Commissioner General who, as Chief Executive Officer, will lead the institution through its transformative journey," the authority stated. The CEO will also be expected to help improve revenue collection by identifying new sources and strengthening efficiency through technology use, integrity, and better service delivery. The recruitment follows the departure of Humphrey Wattanga, who left office on Wednesday, April 8 after being placed on terminal leave by the board. He had earlier been asked to step aside but did not resign. Board chairperson Ndiritu Muriithi said the decision not to renew Wattanga’s contract was linked to performance concerns, pointing to missed revenue targets during his time in office. He added that accountability at leadership level remains central to the running of the authority, especially amid public pressure over revenue performance. "Overall, KRA performance needs to improve, and the buck stops with the CEO. As the board, we are responsible for the performance of the CEO," Muriithi stated. Following his exit, President William Ruto nominated Wattanga as Kenya’s ambassador to South Africa, while KRA appointed Lilian Nyawanda to serve in an acting capacity as the recruitment process gets underway. Applicants for the position must be Kenyan citizens with a first degree from a recognised university and a Master’s degree in Finance, Business, Economics, Law, or a related field. They must also have at least 15 years of relevant experience, including at least 10 years in senior leadership roles in large public or private organisations. Candidates are further required to meet Chapter Six requirements on leadership and integrity and comply with the Leadership and Integrity Act. Knowledge of tax administration and fiscal policy will be an added advantage. Interested candidates are expected to submit their applications through the KRA recruitment portal before May 5.
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KRA opens recruitment for new Commissioner General after Wattanga exit
The recruitment follows the departure of Humphrey Wattanga, who left office on Wednesday, April 8 after being placed on terminal leave by the board. He had earlier been asked to step aside but did not resign.
The Kenya Revenue Authority headquarters in Nairobi. PHOTO/Handout
The Kenya Revenue Authority has begun the search for a new top leader, opening applications for the position of Commissioner General following the exit of Humphrey Wattanga.