KRA opens hunt for new commissioner general after Wattanga's exit

In a notice released by the Authority, the role is described as central to its mandate of collecting revenue on behalf of the Government of Kenya, while also supporting the country’s broader development agenda. 

The Commissioner General will serve as the Chief Executive Officer and Accounting Officer, overseeing daily operations, managing resources, and providing strategic leadership to staff.

The successful candidate will also sit on the Authority’s Board and ensure operations align with its vision of “An agile tax and customs revenue agency facilitating voluntary compliance for all”.

KRA said the role is critical in driving its 9th Corporate Plan, which aims to unravel untapped revenue sources by unlocking and tapping the full revenue potential through technology transformation, service excellence and integrity.

The new chief will therefore be expected to lead reforms that enhance efficiency and boost revenue collection.

Among the key responsibilities outlined is ensuring the efficient and prudent Management of funds and property of the Authority and providing leadership in identifying key result areas to deliver institutional goals.

The Commissioner General will also “promote revenue collection activities in line with Government of Kenya targets” and foster compliance with tax and customs laws.

The Authority emphasised the importance of building relationships, noting that the office holder will be required to sustain sound working relationships with Government agencies, taxpayers and other stakeholders.

The role also includes acting as the Authority’s chief spokesperson and serving as its ambassador on tax and customs matters at both regional and international levels.

Additionally, the successful candidate will spearhead KRA’s digital transformation agenda and ensure effective communication within the organisation, including between management and the Board.

The role also demands maintaining a work environment that promotes ethical practices, good corporate governance, and staff motivation.

To qualify, applicants must be Kenyan citizens with a first degree and a master’s degree in fields such as finance, business, economics, or law.

Candidates are also required to have at least 15 years of work experience, with 10 years in senior leadership roles within large public or private institutions.

KRA further requires applicants to demonstrate compliance with Chapter Six of the Constitution on leadership and integrity. Knowledge of fiscal and tax policy and administration will be an added advantage.

The Authority is seeking a candidate with strong leadership and strategic capabilities, including the ability to “conceive, communicate and implement initiatives with broad strategic impact” and act as a “transformation catalyst”.

Other competencies include resilience, high integrity, and strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Applicants must submit a detailed application, including clearance certificates from relevant government agencies, as part of a rigorous vetting process.

Shortlisted candidates will be required to present original documents and undergo integrity and security background checks.

The position is offered on a three-year contract, renewable once based on performance, with what KRA describes as “an attractive and competitive package”.

Applications must be submitted by May 5, 2026, with the Authority warning that Canvassing in any manner will lead to automatic disqualification.

Humphrey Wattanga Mulongo was nominated by President William Ruto as High Commissioner to South Africa in a fresh round of diplomatic appointments.