Lithuania launches new competition for head of Customs Department

The Lithuanian Finance Ministry has announced a new competition to select the director general of the Customs Department, state news agency ELTA reported on Tuesday.

Finance Minister Kristupas Vaitiekūnas stated that the department operates in a “complex geopolitical environment,” with shifting trade flows, stricter sanctions enforcement, and rising border risks. “The new leader must build a strong team, implement advanced risk management solutions, and ensure the Customs Department remains modern, transparent, and adaptable to emerging challenges,” he said.

Applications will be accepted for 10 working days, until May 8 inclusive. The director general oversees the Customs Department and national customs operations, manages financial and human resources, and ensures compliance with assigned functions.

This follows a canceled February competition after a complaint revealed procedural violations in the selection committee’s composition. The initial winner, deputy director Žaneta Rudaitienė—a former police investigator and criminal analysis chief—had not yet been formally appointed pending security clearances from the Special Investigation Service and State Security Department.

The Customs Department is currently led on an interim basis by Vygantas Paigozinas. The previous director, Darius Žvironas, was dismissed after being detained for driving under the influence.