The Department of Education is looking for a new Commissioner of Education to replace Wendy McDonell, who is expected to retire this year.A spokeswoman for the Ministry of Education said: “The present Commissioner of Education has exceeded her 65th year and has indicated her intent to retire this year.“In that regard, it is necessary for us to advertise now to fill the post. It is our hope to have it filled for September 2013.”Mrs McDonell was named acting commissioner when her predecessor, Henry Johnson, left the Island in March 2009 before being officially given the position that July.A veteran educator, Mrs McDonell had taught at primary, middle and secondary school levels along with both York University and the University of Toronto.An advertisement for her post appeared in Friday’s edition of this newspaper stated that the Ministry is seeking an “outstanding, experienced and well-respected educational leader”.“We are looking for an individual with exceptional talents, high emotional intelligence and a well-established track record of system-wide improvement and achievement to lead the transformation of Bermuda’s public education system,” the advertisement states.“Working under the direction of the Permanent Secretary, the future Commissioner of Education must have a 21st century vision, philosophy and approach to comprehensive and inclusive education.”It further states that the position carries a salary of $171,893 per annum.Candidates are expected to have at least 15 years of relevant experience, including ten years of experience at senior executive management level or equivalent experience.All applicants must also complete a security vetting form and application form, available at www.gov.bm.The closing date for applications is January 23.