Washington, DC - U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Director Linda M. Springer testified today before the Senate Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Management, the Federal Workforce, and the District of Columbia on the positive impact of pay-for- performance in the federal government. During her testimony, Springer noted alternative pay systems provide agencies with the ability to recruit and retain top talent because they reward high performers with greater pay.

"I remain firmly convinced pay-for-performance is critical for attracting a 21^st Century workforce," said Springer. "Results demonstrate that given time and proper implementation, performance-based pay systems can be effective for the federal workforce."

Since the establishment of these systems, OPM has evaluated and analyzed the Senior Executive Service (SES), National Security Personnel System and other alternative pay systems. Earlier this year, OPM conducted a survey of career Senior Executive Service (SES) members which revealed 93 percent of SES members believe their pay should be based on performance and 91 percent responded they should be held accountable for achieving results. In addition, the majority are satisfied with the recognition they receive for their accomplishments.

Today, OPM issued its annual SES Pay-for-Performance report which shows that federal agencies are distributing higher performance awards and pay adjustments to their top performers. The report shows that agencies continue to improve the pay-for-performance systems, using them to link executive performance with organizational goals and results. The report may be found at www.opm.gov/ses/facts_and_figures/data_trends07.asp.

OPM evaluations of the Department of Defense National Security Personnel System (NSPS) highlight how it has strengthened the link between pay and performance, and has provided Pentagon management the ability to promote broader skill development and advancement opportunities within and across pay bands. Because the system requires employee participation, communication had increased between managers and their workforce.

In addition, the Chief Human Capital Officers Council has played an important role in OPM efforts to implement pay-for-performance systems. The Council's Subcommittee on Performance Management holds sessions on pay-for-performance where leaders share best practices or lessons learned.

For more information on OPM initiatives and reports, please visit www.opm.gov.

Our mission is to ensure the Federal Government has an effective civilian workforce. OPM supports U.S. agencies with personnel services and policy leadership including staffing tools, guidance on labor-management relations and programs to improve work force performance.