Pathways to Leadership: Understanding Diversity in the Senior Executive Service
Abstract
This study explored the representation of diversity within the Senior Executive Service (SES) and compared with the overall federal workforce. Prompted by a report published by the Partnership for Public Service stating the SES are less diverse than the federal workforce, this research involved a systematic literature review that encompassed the demographic data for the federal workforce and the SES between 1998 and 2002, an examination of advantages and disadvantages of diversity, the statutes and policies guiding diversity and diversity management in the federal government, and a review of initiatives preparing candidates for SES positions. The study was qualitative in nature, utilizing public data and previously published research and reports. The research indicated diversity within the SES has improved over time for women and people of color, although current percentages remained below the diversity of the total federal workforce. Diversity within an organization provides both advantages and disadvantages, and diversity management strategies with support from leadership are critical to leveraging the advantages while mitigating the disadvantages. Government statutes aimed at improving the diversity of the SES have not been updated within the last twenty-five years, and executive orders signed during the same period have not demonstrated a causal link to improvements in diversity. The study concludes with recommendations intended to facilitate policymakers and practitioners with initiatives to improve the diversity of the SES while also leveraging the benefits of diversity to achieve agency missions.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 31, 2024
- Accession Number
- AD1230719
Entities
People
- Carson L. Wakefield
Organizations
- Defense Acquisition University