The Senior Executive Service (SES) represents the pinnacle of public service leadership in the U.S. federal government. These dedicated individuals are entrusted with leading the nation’s most critical initiatives and agencies. Recognizing the importance of nurturing future generations of SES leaders, the government offers specialized Senior Executive Service Candidate Development Programs (SESCDP). These programs serve as a vital succession management tool, designed to identify and rigorously prepare aspiring executives for the challenges and responsibilities of the SES. Successful completion and certification by the Office of Personnel Management’s (OPM) Qualifications Review Board (QRB) can pave the way for a career SES appointment, often without further competitive processes. Typically aimed at high-potential individuals already performing at the GS-15 level (or equivalent), some agencies also extend SESCDP opportunities to GS-14 level employees. It’s important to note that while QRB certification is a significant achievement, it does not automatically guarantee SES placement, and participation in an SESCDP is not a prerequisite for SES selection.
What is the SES Career Development Program?
Agencies across the federal government tailor their Ses Career Development Programs to align with their unique succession planning needs and organizational objectives. However, all SESCDPs must adhere to core requirements established to ensure a consistent and rigorous developmental experience. These programs are designed to run for a minimum of 12 months and are structured to cultivate essential executive competencies in line with the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs). The ECQs represent the foundational leadership skills deemed critical for success within the SES.
Each SES career development program is mandated to include several key components, as outlined in 5 CFR 412.302(c):
- Individual Development Plan (IDP): A personalized roadmap for development, meticulously crafted based on each candidate’s specific needs and existing competencies. This ensures targeted growth in areas crucial for executive leadership.
- Formal ECQ-Focused Training: A minimum of 80 hours of formal training specifically addressing the Executive Core Qualifications. Crucially, this training must incorporate perspectives from outside the candidate’s home agency, fostering a broader government-wide perspective.
- Developmental Assignments: At least 4 months dedicated to developmental assignments undertaken outside of the candidate’s regular position. These assignments provide exposure to different challenges and broaden the candidate’s skillset in diverse operational environments.
- SES Mentorship: Each participant is paired with an experienced SES mentor. This mentorship provides invaluable guidance, insights, and support from seasoned executive leaders, facilitating practical learning and professional growth.
Through this comprehensive approach, the SES career development program offers candidates exposure to government-wide leadership challenges, fosters interaction with senior leaders from various agencies, provides interagency training opportunities, and facilitates high-level developmental assignments, all underpinned by dedicated mentorship. This multifaceted experience is strategically designed to sharpen executive competencies and cultivate a deep understanding of government-wide programs and issues that extend beyond the confines of a single agency or professional domain. The ultimate aim of the SESCDP is to hone the five Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs), which define the essential leadership attributes necessary for thriving in the Senior Executive Service. For a detailed understanding of these crucial leadership skills and associated behaviors, the OPM’s Guide to Senior Executive Service Qualifications serves as an invaluable resource.
A link to the OPM’s Guide to Senior Executive Service Qualifications, a key resource for understanding the competencies developed in the SES Career Development Program.
Furthermore, SESCDPs are instrumental in cultivating a “corporate SES” – a diverse and interconnected body of career executives united by a shared government-wide perspective. Graduates of these programs are uniquely positioned to champion change, not only within their respective agencies but also across the broader landscape of government.
Agencies are required to secure OPM approval for their SESCDP prior to each program commencement and whenever significant program modifications are implemented. Re-approval is mandated every five years to ensure ongoing program quality and alignment with best practices.
Finding and Applying for SESCDP Opportunities
All officially sanctioned SES career development programs are publicly announced through USAJOBS. For individuals proactively seeking these career-enhancing opportunities, USAJOBS serves as the central platform for discovery and application. To stay informed about upcoming programs, users can leverage the saved search functionality within USAJOBS. Detailed instructions on creating saved searches can be found at https://help.usajobs.gov/how-to/search/save. This proactive approach ensures timely notification of new SESCDP announcements.
The USAJOBS website, the primary platform for finding announcements for the SES Career Development Program and other federal government job opportunities.
Important Note: It is essential to be aware that SESCDP announcements are mandated to remain open for applications for a minimum of 14 calendar days, ensuring ample opportunity for interested and qualified individuals to apply.
By participating in an SES career development program, aspiring leaders gain a distinct advantage in their journey toward joining the Senior Executive Service, equipped with enhanced competencies, a broader perspective, and invaluable experiences.
