Author Archive
Management
The Future of the Secret Service: A Conversation with Carol Leonnig
The agency needs a mission overhaul, new technology and a promotion system focused on performance, not loyalty, says the author of "Zero Fail: The Rise and Fall of the Secret Service."
Management
‘The Premonition’: Two Takeaways for Government
Michael Lewis’ new book about the pandemic highlights public servants’ enduring challenges in navigating messy bureaucracies.
Management
Big Government Is Back. Is the Civil Service Ready?
The administration must seriously consider whether the civil service is equipped to effectively implement Biden’s vision. A new book offers guidance.
Management
How New Agency Leaders Can Get Off to a Successful Start
Whether you’re a new appointee or a career executive starting a new assignment, take some advice from your predecessors.
Management
After Confirmation: The Golden Hour for Political Appointees
What senior leaders should expect and how they can make the most of the opportunity they’ve been given.
Management
Reflections on Public Service During a Pandemic
A conversation with Paul Lawrence, the former Under Secretary for Benefits at the Veterans Affairs Department.
Management
The Deputy Secretary: Linchpin to Making Government Work
Sixteen former deputy secretaries share insights about a critical—but often ambiguous—job.
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Management
What to do Between Nomination and Confirmation: Insights for Political Appointees
Interviews with dozens of previous officeholders offer guidance for handling what can be a very difficult period.
Management
Waiting for a Call From the Biden Team With a Job Offer?
The new administration will be filling thousands of jobs. There’s only one reason to say yes, but many to say no.
Management
While Biden’s Cabinet Is Important, Watch the Sub-Cabinet
The skills and background needed for managerial positions are significantly different than those for policy positions.
Management
Whoever Wins the Election, There Will Be a Transition
A veteran of previous transitions offers program implementation strategies for a new administration—whether that’s Trump’s 2nd term or a Biden presidency.
Management
History Does Repeat Itself: Lessons from the Polio Vaccine
Creating a safe vaccine is one thing; distributing it fairly and effectively is an altogether different challenge.
Management
What the Careers of Diplomats Can Teach the Rest of Government
Two recent books examine the lives and roles of foreign service officers.
Management
When Government Does Not Work: A Primer
A new book chronicles the Trump administration’s efforts to upend the U.S. immigration system.
Featured eBooks
Management
The Challenge of Managing Up
What’s interesting about Gen. Jim Mattis’ new book is not his views on leading others, but his discussion of his frustration with bosses above him.
Management
Four Leadership Takeaways from Ash Carter
The former Defense secretary has important advice for both political and career executives.
Management
Going to the Moon: Reflections on a Government Success Story 50 Years Later
“The real heroes of Project Apollo were public servants,” says historian Douglas Brinkley.
Management
You Don’t Need Leadership Training to Lead
An interview with retired Gen. Stanley McChrystal on the nature of leadership.
Management
How To Be Successful in the Trump Administration: Four Lessons From Previous Political Appointees
The average wait time between nomination and confirmation is three months—use it wisely.
Management