Independent Electoral Commission

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

POSITION: DIRECTOR OF ELECTIONS

CONTRACT DURATION: FIVE (5) YEARS

1. INTRODUCTION

The vision of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) is to contribute to the strengthening of a peaceful, stable and prosperous nation through sustainable and inclusive democracy. The Commission is committed to the continuous development and improvement of relationships that create an enabling environment for the promotion and delivery of regular, credible and acceptable elections and referenda that are timely, participatory and accessible to all.

The IEC therefore seeks to recruit a suitably qualified, visionary and dynamic individual to fill the position of Director of Elections. The successful candidate must demonstrate exceptional leadership, sound strategic management capabilities and the ability to provide effective direction under the supervision of the Commission.

2. REQUIREMENTS

2.1 Qualifications (Essential)

2.1.1 A postgraduate qualification in Law, Public Administration, Political Science, Electoral Management, Governance, Public Policy, Procurement and Supply Chain Management, Communications, Finance, Business Administration, Management, Sociology or other related disciplines relevant to executive leadership and electoral administration.

2.1.2 Candidates must demonstrate strong competencies in strategic leadership, governance, public affairs, stakeholder engagement, communication, procurement oversight, financial management and institutional administration within complex public or democratic institutions.

2.1.3 A PhD qualification or a recognised executive leadership certification will be an added advantage.

2.2 Experience (Essential)

2.2.1 A minimum of six (6) years’ relevant experience leading a similar organisation or serving in a senior management position.

2.2.2 Demonstrated experience in the development, implementation and management of strategic plans.

2.2.3 Strong political awareness complemented by a sound understanding of public and private sector organisational processes.

2.2.4 Proven ability to establish and maintain constructive relationships with government, business and non-state actors.

2.2.5 Proven experience in managing and facilitating complex projects involving multiple stakeholders will be an added advantage.

2.3 Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

2.3.1 Extensive knowledge of electoral processes, procedures and policies as provided for under the Constitution and other electoral laws of Lesotho.

2.3.2 Working knowledge of the operations and functions of the Government and Parliament of Lesotho.

2.3.3 Ability to work independently and execute assignments based on broad strategic direction.

2.3.4 Demonstrated understanding of electoral processes, diversity management, human resources and financial management.

2.3.5 Proven performance in the role of Chief Accounting Officer, Chief Executive Officer or equivalent senior leadership position.

2.3.6 Strong leadership and supervisory skills, with the ability to organise, direct and motivate staff.

2.3.7 Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including government institutions, political parties, civic organisations, the media and the public.

2.3.8 Sound knowledge of organisational governance, financial management and administrative principles.

2.3.9 Ability to produce high-quality reports in line with IEC policies and operational requirements.

2.3.10 excellent verbal and written communication skills across diverse stakeholder groups.

2.3.11 Strong teamwork and collaboration skills.

2.3.12 Demonstrated honesty, integrity and high ethical standards.

2.3.13 Proficiency in computer applications and information technology systems.

2.4 Competencies

2.4.1 Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

2.4.2 Ability to develop, articulate and implement strategic goals and objectives.

2.4.3 Strategic and creative thinking ability, including problem-solving skills.

2.4.4 Sound understanding of Lesotho’s social, political and economic environment.

2.4.5 Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet strict deadlines.

NB: Shortlisted candidates shall undergo a competency assessment test.

3. JOB PURPOSE

To manage the operations of the IEC under the supervision and direction of the Commission.

4. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

4.1 Strategic Planning and Leadership

4.1.1 Provide overall strategic and operational leadership of the IEC in accordance with policy directives issued by the Commission.

4.1.2 Define and articulate the IEC’s mission, vision and values, and develop strategies for their achievement.

4.1.3 Develop annual operational plans and budgets aligned to the Commission’s strategic direction.

4.1.4 Submit annual plans and reports to the Commission for approval.

4.1.5 Develop, coordinate and monitor strategies to ensure the long-term financial sustainability of the IEC.

4.1.6 Develop and oversee the IEC capital development programme.

4.1.7 Develop future leadership capacity and strengthen human capital within the organisation.

4.2 Management and Administration

4.2.1 Provide leadership and management of the IEC Secretariat and oversee the execution of its operations and administration within the strategic and accountability framework established by the Commission.

4.2.2 Work closely with the Commission to ensure sound governance of the IEC.

4.2.3 Advise and inform the Commission in a timely, comprehensive and appropriate manner.

4.2.4 Ensure compliance with all applicable legal and regulatory requirements and mitigate institutional risks, including litigation risks.

4.2.5 Develop and maintain systems and procedures for implementing Commission-approved plans and programmes.

4.2.6 Promote a culture that reflects the values of the IEC, encourages high performance and rewards productivity.

4.2.7 Oversee recruitment, management and development of staff in accordance with approved human resource policies and applicable laws.

4.2.8 Ensure that staff and Commissioners have adequate and up-to-date information to execute their responsibilities effectively.

4.2.9 Conduct regular organisational and staff performance evaluations.

4.3 Financial Management

4.3.1 Oversee the preparation and submission of annual budgets for approval by the Commission.

4.3.2 Ensure prudent management of the IEC’s resources in accordance with approved budgets, laws and regulations.

4.3.3 Ensure compliance with appropriate accounting standards and financial procedures.

4.3.4 Provide timely, accurate and comprehensive financial information to the Commission.

4.3.5 Oversee the management of IEC assets, facilities, infrastructure and stores.

4.4 Responsibilities as Chief Accounting Officer

4.4.1 Ensure ethical, efficient and accountable financial management in accordance with approved accounting principles and procedures.

4.4.2 Ensure proper collection, safeguarding and accounting of all revenues and receipts accruing to the Commission.

4.4.3 Ensure that expenditure is incurred only within approved warrants and budgetary provisions.

4.4.4 Ensure the establishment and maintenance of an effective internal audit system.

4.4.5 Ensure submission of all statutory and financial reports as required.

4.4.6 Perform any other financial duties assigned by the Commission.

4.5 Human Resource Management

4.5.1 Oversee recruitment and contracting of Secretariat and project staff.

4.5.2 Promote employee welfare, development and training.

4.5.3 Develop and implement human resource policies and procedures.

4.5.4 Manage employee relations effectively.

4.5.5 Develop and oversee performance management systems.

4.5.6 Ensure compliance with labour laws and regulatory reporting requirements.

4.5.7 Promote diversity, inclusion and equal opportunity principles within the IEC.

4.5.8 Develop remuneration and benefits proposals for approval by the Commission.

4.6 Institutional Representation and Stakeholder Relations

4.6.1 Protect and enhance the image and reputation of the IEC through effective corporate governance, stakeholder engagement and media relations.

4.6.2 Serve as spokesperson of the Commission when authorised.

4.6.3 Ensure transparent, inclusive and timely communication of Commission activities.

4.7 Programme Management and Innovation

4.7.1 Monitor developments and trends relevant to electoral management and anticipate future institutional needs.

4.7.2 Promote innovation and increased adoption of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs).

4.7.3 Monitor and evaluate IEC programmes and ensure readiness of electoral infrastructure, logistics and voting facilities.

4.7.4 Promote research and institutional learning to strengthen electoral management and operational capacity.

4.7.5 Support the Commission in maintaining institutional independence in line with international best practices for electoral management bodies.

4.8 Statutory Responsibilities

4.8.1 Lead the IEC Secretariat in the administration of National Assembly elections, Local Government elections and referenda.

4.8.2 Ensure registration of all eligible voters in Lesotho.

4.8.3 Compile and maintain the national register of electors and constituency voter registers in accordance with the Constitution and electoral laws.

4.8.4 Oversee implementation of all electoral and election-related activities required to fulfil the Commission’s constitutional and statutory mandate.

4.8.5 Advise the Commission on the review and reform of electoral laws, regulations and frameworks.

5. WORKING ENVIRONMENT

5.1 The IEC is a constitutional institution established to support democracy in Lesotho. The Commission is committed to promoting diversity, inclusion, transparency, accountability, ethical conduct and respect for human rights.

5.2 The position requires a highly motivated and energetic individual capable of leading large multidisciplinary teams and implementing programmes effectively.

5.3 The incumbent must be capable of managing sensitive electoral matters with professionalism, tact and diplomacy.

5.4 The successful candidate must demonstrate respect for diversity and the ability to work effectively in a rights-based environment.

5.5 The incumbent must be able to manage competing priorities and meet multiple deadlines.

6. REMUNERATION

The IEC offers a competitive remuneration package commensurate with the responsibilities of the position and market conditions.

7. APPLICATIONS

• Interested suitably qualified Basotho nationals with proven senior leadership experience, high integrity and demonstrated professional competence are invited to submit applications accompanied by:
• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV);
• Certified copies of academic qualifications; and
• Names and contact details of three (3) contactable referees.

Applications should be hand-delivered to IEC Head Office in the Registry Office at Corner Maluti & Caledon Road, Maseru West and be addressed to:

The Chairperson
Independent Electoral Commission
IEC Head Office – Maseru West (Corner Maluti and Caledon Road)
P.O. Box 12698
Maseru, Lesotho.

Important Notes:

• Appointment shall be subject to security clearance and vetting processes.
• Applicants must be registered voters with the IEC.
• Note that Political Party representatives will be represented in the recruitment processes

8. CLOSING DATE

All applications must be received on or before Friday, 26 June 2026 at 16:00 hours.