DES MOINES – Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate today (Wednesday) announced that after a nationwide search, Bailey Kelley will take on the role of Director of Elections. Kelley has been on staff with the Iowa Secretary of State’s office for two years, most recently serving as Deputy Director of Elections. In a press release, Pate said “We conducted a nationwide search to find the best candidate for this role, and it was clear that the most qualified person came from within our own staff. Bailey has extensive experience in elections and academia and has proven herself as a valuable member of our team. We are looking forward to seeing her excel in this new role.”

Kelley received the Certified Elections Registration Administrator (CERA) certification from the Election Center, also known as the National Association of Election Officials. The professional certification for election administrators requires graduates to complete an extensive number of hours of election training and attend several conferences and workshops to gain experience and education on voter registration and election administration.

Bailey Kelley, IA Director of Elections

Prior to joining the Elections Team with the Iowa Secretary of State’s Office, Kelley worked in elections in Johnson County, Iowa.