Senior Executives Association Supportive of OPM Direct-Hire Authorities

WASHINGTON, DC – The Senior Executives Association (SEA) released the following statement regarding the U.S. Office of Personnel Management’s (OPM) announcement today of new hiring authorities intended to allow for a faster, more efficient recruitment and onboarding process for in-demand positions, including STEM, cybersecurity, and IT-related workforce needs.

“I am pleased to see OPM taking pragmatic steps to alleviate some of the pain points encountered daily by Federal leaders when managing their organizations,” said SEA President Bill Valdez. “As the Federal government competes with the private sector in the ‘war for talent,’ Federal leaders benefit from added flexibilities, allowing for necessary short-term adjustments in areas of need, even as we maintain our focus and momentum toward broader civil service modernization."

“Hiring is consistently cited as a top challenge and these direct-hire authorities can ensure agencies are able to recruit talented professionals to fill the demanding and evolving roles that constitute federal work,” Valdez continued. “SEA applauds OPM’s efforts and stands prepared to assist as Federal leaders move to implement these new authorities and best apply them to agency-specific areas of need.”