The Quick Count and Election Observation

C H A P T E R T W O : G E T T I N G S T A R T E D
18 A number of factors, such as funding delays or secondary projects, can upset
tight schedules and create significantly more work—and anxiety—in the months
before an election. Some of the most common ways to increase productivity
as elections draw near include:
• adding staff, which could include logistics specialists to procure telecommunications
and computer equipment, or database managers to
continuously update information on volunteers and produce credentials;
• forming mobile teams of trainers to complete or reinforce the training
of quick count observers; and
• utilizing volunteers to assist with important projects, such as distributing
press packets or supplies to the volunteer network.
Below are model job descriptions of the most important staff positions with
corresponding duties and qualifications:
JOB DESCRIPTIONS
Executive Director
Duties:
• Directs and executes the quick count plan.
• Recruits personnel and supervises the work of the functional teams, ensuring
the efficiency and quality of the work.
• Manages the budget and assists the board with proposal writing and
other fundraising activities.
• Monitors and analyzes all political issues affecting quick count implementation.
• Directs efforts to solicit and acquire accreditation for monitors to legally
observe the voting, counting and tabulation processes.
• Advises the board of directors on external relations, provides the board
with frequent progress reports on internal operations and alerts the board
to potential problems.
• Represents the organization, with board members and staff as appropriate,
at public and press events.
Qualifications:
• A proven manager, preferably of a large volunteer organization.
• Unequivocal commitment to ensuring electoral integrity; election-related
experience preferred.
• Reputation for professionalism and ability to be politically impartial.
• Maintains extensive contacts in the political and/or electoral communities.
• Possesses some experience with information technology.
• Willingness to work long hours in an extremely high-stress environment
(project-driven).
• Shares in long-term vision of organization.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Excellent communication skills.