📊OPM Proposes Regulation Changes for Senior Executive Performance Management
Assuring Responsive and Accountable Federal Executive Management
Summary
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is proposing to remove the prohibition of a forced distribution of performance rating levels within the Senior Executive Service (SES) as well as eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) language within SES performance management regulations. Currently, agencies are prohibited from establishing quotas or limits on the number or proportion of the various rating levels assigned, meaning that each senior executive potentially can receive any rating based on their performance, irrespective of how other senior executives perform within the agency. However, governmentwide SES ratings data have consistently shown that virtually all SES receive the highest rating levels (i.e., levels 4 and 5) despite documented reports of SES failings. Removing the prohibition on forced distribution would allow agencies to establish and enforce limits on the highest SES rating levels, thereby increasing rigor in the SES appraisal process and leading to a more normalized distribution of SES ratings across the Federal Government.
Agencies
- Personnel Management Office
Business Impact
$$ - Med
The proposed regulations by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) on performance ratings could impact senior executive accountability significantly. The removal of restrictions on forced distribution of performance ratings may affect salary adjustments and recognition of top performers, ultimately promoting a performance-driven culture in federal agencies.