About Sirisia Leadership Academy

Sirisia Leadership Academy (SLA) is a newly established boarding high school located in the foothills of Mt. Elgon in Western Kenya. SLA prepares academically gifted yet economically disadvantaged girls and boys from Sirisia and neighboring communities to succeed at university.

Tuition and fees are fully waived for approximately 200 selected students, who will live and learn in a vibrant academic community on a 37-acre campus. SLA graduates will be equipped with the academic rigor, leadership skills, and mastery of written communication necessary to thrive at top‑tier universities in Kenya, the United States, and Europe.

A cornerstone of SLA’s educational model is its integration of advanced agricultural and ecological research into the curriculum. The Academy also serves as a cultural exchange hub for visiting students and researchers from Kenyan and international universities.

The Board of Directors is seeking an experienced, visionary, and passionate educator to serve as the founding Principal of Sirisia Leadership Academy. The successful candidate—a woman with exceptional academic credentials and proven leadership experience—will be entrusted with building a world-class institution that nurtures the potential of gifted youth in the Sirisia region.

As Principal, she will oversee curriculum development, staff recruitment, student admissions, stakeholder engagement, financial stewardship, and the overall administration of a safe, inclusive, and high-performing school environment.

Key Responsibilities  

Academic Leadership

• Develop and implement a rigorous, globally competitive curriculum

• Inspire excellence among faculty and students

• Promote a culture of continuous learning and innovation

• Integrate agricultural and ecological research into academic programming

• Oversee budgeting, financial reporting, and compliance

• Guide budget review meetings and ensure fiscal discipline

• Establish and report on KPIs

• Ensure safety, nutrition, and well-being of all residents

Human Resources & Staff Development

• Recruit, train, and retain outstanding staff

• Develop and administer performance objectives and bonus programs

• Foster a collaborative and transparent work culture

External Relations & Partnerships

• Build relationships with local schools and community stakeholders

• Cultivate partnerships with universities in Kenya, Europe, and the US

• Represent SLA in national and international forums

Governance & Compliance

• Collaborate closely with the Board of Directors

• Lead regular board meetings and strategic planning sessions

• Ensure compliance with all Kenyan laws and educational regulations

Qualifications & Experience

• Advanced degree from a leading Kenyan or international university

• A personal record of academic excellence

• Minimum 6 years of experience in education and school administration

• Proven success in multicultural and international settings

• Ability to lead diverse stakeholders—from agricultural staff to academic leaders

• Excellent organizational skills and great attention to detail

• Charismatic, ambitious, and inspirational leadership style

• Strong analytical and data-driven decision-making skills

• Deep understanding of the Kenyan education system

• Excellent written and verbal communication in English

• Committed to full-time campus residency and active engagement in residential life

• Long-term commitment to SLA’s mission and values

Why Join SLA

• Build and lead a performance-driven academic culture

• Lead an immersive residential academic community

• Collaborate with top-tier institutions globally

• Mentor and empower future leaders of Kenya and beyond

• Make a lasting impact on education, sustainability, and community development

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit the following to sirisialeadershipacademy@gmail.com

• A cover letter

• Curriculum Vitae (including references and any published academic works)

• Copies of KCSE results and university transcripts

• Valid TSC Registration Certificate

• Indicate your earliest availability (month) to assume the role

Applications are due by September 19, 2025