Independent Review Expert (IRE) - WADA
The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) is seeking candidates to occupy the new positions of Independent Review Expert (IRE) under the 2027 World Anti-Doping Code (Code). Further to the recommendations of the Final Report of the WADA Working Group on the Cottier Report implementation, the 2027 Code creates this new role to strengthen oversight across the global anti-doping system of decisions not to pursue normal results management for Adverse Analytical Findings (AAFs).
A Primary IRE and a Backup IRE will be appointed by WADA’s Executive Committee (ExCo) to take office on 1 January 2027. As further set out in the Code and the 2027 International Standard for Results Management, the IREs’ mandate will be to:
- Review files provided by Anti-Doping-Organizations (ADOs) that, in exceptional cases, are considering closing a case or not proceeding with normal results management after their initial review(1), under Code Article 7.2, of an AAF; and
- After their review of the file, issuing a written opinion and recommendation (as a general rule, within 20 days of receipt of the file) to the ADO, with a copy to WADA, advising whether a departure from the normal Results Management process is justified in the particular circumstances of the case.
The IREs’ work, including the compensation, length of service term and other details of the engagement, will be further governed by specific Terms of Reference to be adopted (in September 2026) by the ExCo.
Pending approval by the ExCo, it is anticipated that the IREs will be appointed for renewable terms of at least three years, and be required to comply with applicable WADA policies, independence criteria (as outlined below) and confidentiality requirements. It is also anticipated that the compensation model of the IREs will reflect the importance of this new role and ensure that the process remains accessible for ADOs.(2)
Experience and Expertise Requirements
IREs must be legal experts having extensive experience with anti-doping results management and with an established reputation of integrity and fairness. Candidates are invited to refer to the position profile for additional information.
Expected Time Requirements
As the IRE positions are new under the 2027 Code, the time commitment that will be required of IREs is uncertain. It is anticipated that the services of IREs will be retained on an irregular and exceptional basis, given that IREs will only be required to review exceptional cases. When reviews are initiated, the IREs will be required to conduct their work promptly.
The Backup IRE will serve in the event that the Primary IRE is not available to promptly review a case or has a conflict of interest. By submitting their application, candidates confirm that they are willing and available to occupy either the primary or backup IRE position.
Independence Criteria
The applicable independence criteria will be set out in the Terms of Reference of the Independent Review Experts. Given the nature of their position, it is anticipated that the IREs will be required to comply with WADA’s Operational, Personal and Organizational independence criteria (as defined in WADA’s Governance Regulations), which will be integrated in the Terms of Reference.
Appointment Process
As detailed below, applications are to be submitted to WADA’s independent Nominations Committee, which will make an initial determination to retain a number of candidates for interviews and vetting, in accordance with its processes. Once vetting is complete, the Nominations Committee will recommend its preferred candidates from a final shortlist.
The Nominations Committee will submit the results of its work, including the relevant dossiers, to the ExCo. It is expected that the two recommended candidates will be presented for approval at the ExCo meeting on 25 November 2026 and will enter into office on 1 January 2027.
How to submit an application
Applications are to be forwarded by Thursday 6 August 2026 to Ms. Diane Smith-Gander AO, Chair of WADA’s Nominations Committee (c/o
To be considered, all applications must include the following:
- A maximum one-page cover (motivational) letter, expressing the candidate’s reasons for their interest in the position; and
- An updated curriculum vitae(3), which fully captures the candidate’s qualifications, experience and expertise(4).
All stakeholders are encouraged to identify and nominate candidates which they believe are qualified to serve as an IRE.
Any questions should be directed to Ms. Diane Smith-Gander AO, c/o
WADA thanks all applicants for their interest.
Notes:
1. i.e. in cases where the ADO has determined no Therapeutic Use Exemption has been granted, there is no apparent departure from the International Standard for Testing or International Standard for Laboratories, and it is not apparent that the AAF was caused by ingestion of a Prohibited Substance through a permitted route.
2. The costs of the IRE process will be covered by the Results Management Authority that initiates the review.
3. For purposes of review, evaluation, and approval, candidates consent to the sharing of their curriculum vitae and candidate file (and personal information contained therein) with WADA, the Nominations Committee, as well as the ExCo, in accordance with WADA’s Privacy Policy and the WADA Governance Regulations. By submitting their application, candidates confirm that they have read and understood the Policy and accept their terms.
4. If the candidate refers to qualifications/certifications in their application, the year(s) of obtention must be included. The candidate must also be able to provide valid evidence of such qualifications/certifications should it be requested by the Nominations Committee or WADA.
