Executive Corner

A resource for keeping the NIH executive community informed about training opportunities, executive performance management and other matters of interest.

Brought to you by the Division of Senior and Scientific Executive Management (DSSEM).


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News and Announcements

Full Certification for Senior-Level (SL) and Scientific or Professional (ST) Performance Appraisal System

On July 1, 2024, OPM granted full certification of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Senior-Level and Scientific or Professional (SL/ST) performance appraisal system. This certification authorizes pay for SL/ST up to Executive Level II, $221,900, and apply a higher aggregate limitation on pay equivalent to the Vice President’s salary, currently $284,600. 

FY 2024 Presidential Rank Award Winners Have Been Announced!

The Presidential Rank Awards are the highest honor the federal government can bestow upon career civilian employees. President Biden selected 236 winners from 30 federal agencies. Mr. Tartakovsky is among the career Senior Executive Service (SES) employees selected by the President for their exceptional leadership, accomplishments, and service over an extended period. 

A complete list of 2024 winners may be viewed on the OPM site.

FY 2024 NIH Presidential Rank Award Winners:

  • Mr. Michael Tartakovsky

HHS SES News

Center for Leadership Development 
Schedule at a Glance

Registration for the OPM SES Orientation Briefing, Being Future Ready – Leading America’s Workforce, is open. It is designed for SES in their first two years of appointment, however, seasoned executives who have not previously attended are welcome. It is a valuable opportunity to network with other executives across the government and gain important insights into SES leadership. HHS colleagues who attended this year found it to be an excellent use of their time. The first session will be on March 21, 2025, and the second on July 18, 2025. You only need to attend one session. Early registration is encouraged due to limited spots and the likelihood that both sessions will fill up. Upon completion, you’ll receive an OPM SES Certificate. Tuition: $1015

Evidence-Based Decision-Making Leadership Academy
Applications are open for the third cohort of the Evidence-Based Decision-Making Leadership Academy (EBLA), a free professional development opportunity sponsored by the Office of Management and Budget and facilitated by the Federal Executive Institute. This academy offers SES participants training in evidence-based decision-making to address leadership challenges.

EBLA provides executives with valuable skills for using research-driven methods and high-quality data to improve agency efficiency and outcomes. Through expert-led sessions and peer interaction, participants can build strategies to enhance decision-making at no cost. Interested SES members should apply by November 22, 2024.. Accepted participants will attend a full-day kickoff in Washington, DC, on January 28, followed by four virtual sessions through May.

Conflict and Negotiations for Federal Executives
Conflict in any workplace is unavoidable, and it’s critical that you have an arsenal of management strategies at the ready to resolve disputes and reach agreements quickly and effectively. This course offers personalized approaches and tools to help you face discord with a positive and constructive approach. Register for one of two offerings slated for 2025. Tuition: $3500

Adapting to Organizational Change: Enabling 21st Century Leaders
To solve the challenges of our time, leaders must foster a culture of innovation. It's no longer enough to possess exceptional analytical and deductive skills; today's leaders must aggregate insights and resources throughout the system of government. This course looks at some thought-provoking questions to help address policy and organizational challenges facing federal leaders today.

Leadership encompasses the ability to adapt to organizational change while supporting others in adapting. You will be introduced to the principles of innovation and provided with tools, techniques, and strategies to help solve specific government challenges resulting from rapidly changing socio-economic, technical, and cultural conditions.

Register for one of the following online courses: Feb 11-13, July 8-10, and September 2-4. Tuition: $2550.


Performance Management

USA Performance (USAP)
An automated performance management system for SES and Senior-Level Title 42 executives.

Executive Performance Management - Awards and Recognition
Information on the executive performance cycle and the various award programs.


Compensation

The Senior Executive Service (SES) covers managerial, supervisory, and policy positions classified above GS-15. Compensation is through a performance-based pay system.

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has overall authority for the SES program. They provide oversight and assistance to HHS and NIH.


SES Information and Guidance

Candidate Development Program

The Candidate Development Program (CDP), is a tool used to identify and prepare aspiring senior executive leaders. 

This program is not offered on a regular basis. When the application period is open, HHS and other sponsoring agencies will post opportunities on USAJobs. If interested, you may apply to the program.

Vacancies and Rotational Opportunities

For additional information and guidance, check out the NIH Senior Executive Service SharePoint Site


Training Opportunities


Executive Careers

Recent NIH Executive Vacancies