The high-profile post of Director of Public Prosecutions is being advertised by Government in a bid to find a Bermudian to replace Vinette Graham-Allen.

An advertisement for the $162,992-a-year position appeared in the Bermuda Sun last Friday, stating that the job was the first-term appointment for a period of three years.

Jamaican national Ms Graham-Allen, who has come under fire recently from colleagues critical of her managerial style, was appointed Director on a three-year contract in 2004.

At the time, Government House, the Governor's official residence, issued a statement saying a condition of her contract was that she identified and trained a suitable Bermudian prosecutor as her potential successor.

Kenneth Dill, the head of the Civil Service, told The Royal Gazette yesterday that although Ms Graham-Allen had identified an Islander to replace her, the male lawyer chose to accept another position in the judiciary.

He said: "It is customary to re-advertise a post when the contract of a non-Bermudian is about to expire to determine whether a qualified Bermudian is interested and available to fill the position.

"In the first instance, we hope the advertisement will attract a suitably qualified Bermudian to fill the post going forward."

Although staff in her department have complained about her "autocratic" behaviour, Ms Graham-Allen has been publicly praised for increasing conviction rates and clearing a backlog of cases.

Earlier this month, Senator Wayne Caines, the Premier's Chief of Staff and a former lawyer at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), revealed that he had asked Attorney General Philip Perinchief to look into concerns from DPP staff about management style in the department.

And last year, former Attorney General Larry Mussenden ordered a civil service review into the department due to discontent. The outcome of that review was never made public.

The advert for the Director's post states that the successful applicant must have at least ten years experience as an advocate or solicitor in a Commonwealth jurisdiction, substantial criminal litigation experience and proven ability in the management of staff.

The advert reads: "The successful applicant will be responsible for the management and supervision of all criminal prosecutions, ensuring their efficient disposal.

"The Director will be expected to personally prosecute the more significant cases. The post holder will plan and manage the operation of the office; provide leadership to ensure high standards; train subordinate staff and oversee their career progression; and perform associated legal and operational duties."

The closing date for applications is January 31.