Felix Koskei, the incumbent Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service is one of Kenya’s most powerful government officials. His career spans various roles in both public and private sectors, making him a key figure in the administration of President William Ruto.
Early Life and Education
Born in 1964 in Tinderet, Nandi County, Felix Koskei started his educational journey at Tachasis Primary School. He later joined Metetei High School for his secondary education.
Koskei then proceeded to the University of Nairobi (UoN), earning a Bachelor of Science Degree. His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue a Master’s in Strategic Management from UoN.
Additionally, he holds academic accolades from the University of Brunswick in Canada and the University of Botswana, further solidifying his expertise in management and governance.
Career Journey
Koskei’s career began at the now-defunct Kenya Posts and Telecommunication Corporation. He later transitioned to the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority in 2007, where he served as a procurement manager.
1) Role at the Kenya National Highways Authority
In 2009, Koskei joined the Kenya National Highways Authority, where he rose through the ranks to become the General Manager of the Supply Chain and Support Services department.
His experience in supply chain management positioned him as a valuable asset in government agencies dealing with procurement and infrastructure development.
2) Cabinet Secretary Appointment
In 2013, former President Uhuru Kenyatta appointed Koskei as the Cabinet Secretary (CS) for Agriculture. However, in 2015, he was suspended from office following allegations of corruption.
He was accused of issuing illegal sugar import permits outside the constitutionally mandated open tendering process. Despite these accusations, he remained influential within government circles.
3) Return to Public Service
Koskei made a comeback to government in 2018 when he was appointed as a member of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC). His return to public office showcased his resilience and ability to navigate the complexities of government roles.
4) Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service
In October 2022, President William Ruto appointed Felix Koskei as the Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, replacing Joseph Kinyua, who served during President Uhuru Kenyatta’s tenure.
In his role, Koskei is responsible for overseeing government operations and ensuring efficient service delivery. He is deputized by former Turkana Governor Josphat Nanok, who played a key role in Ruto’s presidential campaign as the Director-General.
Felix Koskei Salary and Allowances
According to a gazette notice by the Salaries and Remuneration Commission (SRC) dated August 9, 2023, Felix Koskei earns a gross salary of Ksh957,000 per month. This includes:
- Basic salary: Ksh574,200
- House allowance: Ksh200,000
- Salary market allowance: Ksh182,800
Additional Benefits
Koskei is entitled to various benefits, including:
- Official government car
- Comprehensive medical cover for himself, his wife, and four children (under 25 years old)
- Inpatient cover: Ksh10 million
- Outpatient cover: Ksh300,000
- Maternity cover: Ksh150,000
- Dental cover: Ksh75,000
- Optical cover: Ksh75,000
- Life insurance and personal accident cover
- Daily subsistence allowance for local and international travel
- Monthly airtime allowance of Ksh20,000
- Annual leave allowance
Conclusion
Felix Koskei’s journey from a procurement manager to the Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service illustrates his resilience and deep involvement in Kenya’s governance.
His role in government continues to shape policy implementation and service delivery under President William Ruto’s administration.
Despite facing challenges in his career, Koskei has remained a key player in Kenya’s political and administrative landscape.
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