Final rule · 2026-12811

Ensuring Consistent and Rigorous Standards for the Senior Executive Service Candidate Development Programs

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is issuing a final rule to amend its Senior Executive Service (SES) Candidate Development Program (SESCDP) regulations to implement certain SES training and development requirements. The SES represents the Federal Government's leadership, composed of executive positions above the GS-15 level. SESCDPs serve as a crucial succession management tool for Federal agencies, designed to identify and prepare high-potential employees for future roles within the SES. These programs aim to cultivate leaders equipped with a governmentwide perspective and the competencies necessary to tackle complex challenges.