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).
Important Dates
Preliminary Call for 2025 Presidential Rank Award Nominations
| 08 Oct | Pre-HHS Review (optional) |
| 14 Nov | Full PRA Nomination Package |
For details on guidance and deadlines, please visit the Presidential Rank Award section.
FY 2025 Executive Performance Establishment
| 24 Oct | Establish executive performance plans in USA Performance (USAP) |
Please refer to the establishment guidance for further details.
NIH Virtual Tour
This dynamic, interactive tour showcases the depth and breadth of NIH’s important work turning discovery into health and illustrates the wide range of the NIH mission. To learn more about who we are, what we do, and our impact on health visit the NIH Virtual Tour here!
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 2023 Presidential Rank Award Winners Have Been Announced!
The Presidential Rank Award (PRA) is one of the most prestigious awards in the federal career civil service, and these awards are critical to recognizing the hard work and essential contributions of dedicated civil servants in the American federal workforce. The President selected 232 winners across 31 different agencies for the 2023 awards program for their exceptional leadership, accomplishments, and service over an extended period. These individuals are all members of the Senior Executive Service (SES), Senior-Level (SL), and Scientific and Professional (ST) corps. NIH had an amazing four winners this year! Join us in congratulating NIH’s winners (listed below)! A complete list of 2023 winners may be viewed on the OPM site.
FY 2023 NIH Presidential Rank Award Winners:
- Ms. Camille Hoover, M.S.W.
- Mr. Keith R. Lamirande, M.B.A.
- Ms. Colleen McGowan, MHA, FACHE
- Mr. Jerry Sheehan, M.S.
HHS SES News
Empowering SES: Writing a PRA Justification that Knocks Their Socks Off
Aim for the prestigious Presidential Rank Award (PRA) with a justification narrative that stands out. This session, held on September 26th from 3:00 – 400 PM, is designed for career SES members seeking nomination, offering expert guidance on crafting a compelling 4-page narrative.
Why Attend?
- Craft Impactful Narratives: Learn to articulate your Program Results and Executive Leadership in a way that highlights not only your accomplishments but also the broader impact on your agency and beyond.
- Demonstrate Excellence: Understand how to effectively showcase the significance of your achievements and the value they bring to the organization.
- Stand Out: Gain insights into what makes a justification truly exceptional, ensuring your narrative captures the attention of evaluators.
Please register for the session via LMS.
Empowering SES Monthly Series
The Executive Resources Division received such positive feedback on our Empowering SES monthly series that we are expanding it with John Lybarger from Korn Ferry! See the sneak peek below and mark your calendar. Registration will be through the LMS once we get a little closer to the dates. Each 90-minute session will be offered in the morning and again in the afternoon so we can maximize participation no matter your duty location.
| Date and Times | Topic |
| October 10 at 10:00 AM | Driving Vision & Purpose |
| October 10 at 1:30 PM | Driving Vision & Purpose |
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
- Current SES positions [usajobs.gov]
- SES Rotation Announcements
For additional information and guidance, check out the NIH Senior Executive Service SharePoint Site
Training Opportunities
Executive Careers
Recent NIH Executive Vacancies
| Position | IC | Close Date |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Director, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health | NCCIH | Open until filled |
| Director, Division of International Training and Research | FIC | Open until filled |
| Director, Division of Neuroscience and Behavior | NIDA | Open until filled |
| Director, Center for Clinical Trials Network | NIDA | Open until filled |
| Scientific Director, Center for Cancer Research (CCR) | NCI | Open until filled |
