This study aims to develop a model for leadershipappointment positions in the Regional Government of Nusa Tenggara Barat. Using case study method, data collection was carried out through observation, tracing and document analysis as well as in-depth interviews with informants consisting of two clusters (K-I and K-II). Thisresearch found that competence supports meritocracy, because the higher the competence, the better the meritocracy value.Meritocracy getthe most dominant element, and political intervention has a negative role on employees and hinders the implementation of meritocracy, however, political functions in policy formulation and political control over the bureaucracy are needed. Local knowledge strengthens values of morality and integrity so as to fortify the unfair competition between civil servants and the discretion of regional heads. Talent management asurgent factor considering that more than half of the human resources are ina critical age. The study recommends developing a model for leadershipappointment position with local knowledge and talent managementelementsthat reinforce competence and meritocracy and inhibit political discretion towards superior performing leaders.Keywords: leadership position, competence, meritocracy, discretion, local knowledge, talent management