The Department of Justice is to recruit a new Chief Inspector of Criminal Justice, to promote public confidence in the justice system in Northern Ireland.
The inspector will have the power to examine and inspect all agencies within the criminal justice system, apart from the judiciary.
While the appointment would usually be made by a justice minister in the absence of an executive the permanent secretary will oversee the recruitment campaign.
Brendan McGuigan, the current Chief Inspector of Criminal Justice was due to retire last year but agreed to remain in post for another year in the absence of devolution.
Department of Justice Permanent Secretary, Peter May - announcing the recruitment campaign for Mr McGuigan's replacement - said: "This is a challenging and demanding position with a public profile that requires a high-calibre individual with the appropriate skills and experience".
"The successful candidate will provide leadership, build effective relationships and drive improvements".
The appointment, a full-time post which carries a salary of £112,542, is for three years, with the successful candidate being able to reapply for a second term at the end of the initial appointment.
The closing date for applications is noon on Friday August 9,with interviews will be held in mid-September and the successful candidate announced at the end of November.
Mr McGuigan's tenure comes to an end on November 29.
