Page Revision: 12/7/2010 9:38:19 AM
Senior Executive Service Candidate Development Program
Senior Executive Service Candidate Development Programs (SESCDP) are one succession management tool agencies may use to identify and prepare future senior leaders. SESCDPs provide SES candidates at the GS-14, GS-15, or equivalent levels with training and development opportunities to enhance their executive competencies and broaden their understanding of the wide range of Federal Government programs and issues beyond their agencies and professions.
Requirements for SESCDPs are found in 5 CFR 412.301 and 412.302. Agencies must obtain OPM approval before they may conduct a program or whenever there are substantial changes to the program. Agencies must seek reapproval every five years thereafter.
An SESCDP must last a minimum of 12 months. Graduates of an OPM-approved SESCDP who are selected through civil service-wide competition and are certified by OPM's Qualifications Review Board (QRB) may receive a career SES appointment without further competition. These graduates are eligible for noncompetitive career appointment to an SES position for which they meet the professional/technical qualification requirements. It is important to understand that QRB certification does not guarantee placement in the SES.