Page Revision: 12/15/2010 3:12:43 PM

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. All SESCDP candidates must complete the requirements of the program in 5 CFR 412.302 and all additional requirements established by their agency.

Recruitment for SESCDPs is either from all groups of qualified individuals within the civil service, or all groups of qualified individuals whether or not in the civil service.

Candidates from outside the Federal Government and/or employees serving on other than career or career-type appointments (e.g. term, temporary) are considered "non-status." These candidates must be appointed using the Schedule B authority outlined in 5 CFR 213.3202(j). Schedule B authority is a temporary appointment and may not exceed or be extended beyond 3 years. These candidates may not be used to fill a permanent position. Candidates on a Schedule B authority must be assigned to a full-time non-SES position.

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. 

 

Solve Problems

(How can my agency's program meet the requirements in 5 CFR 412?)

To graduate from an SESCDP, candidates must complete the requirements of the program in 5 CFR 412.302 and all additional requirements established by their agency. Each candidate must have: