(a) Appointment of staff. The commission may employ an executive director, disciplinary counsel, and such other staff as it deems necessary to assist the commission in performing its duties. The executive director is authorized to employ individuals to fill the other staff positions authorized by the commission. The executive director serves at the pleasure of the commission and other employees serve at the pleasure of the executive director.

(b) Duties of executive director. The executive director is the chief administrative officer of the commission and is responsible for ensuring that all allegations of judicial misconduct that are brought to the attention of the commission are promptly investigated and resolved in accordance with the commission's rules and administrative policies. The executive director may assist disciplinary counsel in the investigation and processing of complaints. The executive director shall supervise commission staff, prepare reports, accept service on behalf of the commission, administer appropriations and other funds in cooperation with the Administrative Director of the Courts, maintain records and files, and perform other duties as directed by the commission.

(c) Duties of disciplinary counsel. Disciplinary counsel shall conduct preliminary investigations and perform the functions of a prosecutor in proceedings before investigative panels, hearing panels or hearing officers, and the supreme court. Disciplinary counsel shall file formal charges when directed to do so by the commission or an investigative panel, and shall perform other duties as assigned by the commission or executive director.

(d) Policies, procedures and forms. The commission may adopt administrative policies, procedures and forms that do not conflict with these rules.