N.D. Cent. Code § 55-02-01.1

The director shall serve at the pleasure of the state historical board and until a successor is appointed and qualified. In case of vacancy by death, removal, resignation, or any other cause, the board shall fill the vacancy by appointment. The salary must be determined by the board within the limits of legislative appropriation. The director is entitled to compensation for expenses incurred while in the discharge of official duties, paid in the same manner and amounts as other state officials are paid, from funds available to the board.