Evans Taps Bond for Chief of Staff as Fenton Returns to Private Sector

Washington, DC - U.S. Commerce Secretary Don Evans today announced that Undersecretary for Technology Phil Bond will assume the additional role of chief of staff. Bond will replace Laurie Fenton, who is retiring from government service to return to the private sector.

"Phil Bond's proven track record as an effective manager and strategic thinker, combined with his strong leadership in crucially important technology policy, make him a natural to build on the solid foundation Laurie Fenton has helped put in place during our first, very intensive year here at the Department of Commerce," Evans said. "Laurie has been central to building the top-notch team we have in place here, and her organizational groundwork has positioned us well, as we help the President create a positive environment for American business to flourish and create new jobs."

Bond was nominated by President Bush, unanimously confirmed by the U.S. Senate and began his service as Undersecretary for Technology Policy at the Commerce Department in October 2001. As undersecretary, Bond develops science and technology policy to maximize technology's contribution to America's economic growth. Prior to joining the Bush Administration, Bond directed federal public policy for Hewlett-Packard Company and served as senior vice president for government affairs and treasurer of the Information Technology Industry Council. He previously served in government as chief of staff to Congresswoman Jennifer Dunn (R-WA), deputy assistant secretary of defense for legislative affairs under then-Defense Secretary Dick Cheney, and chief of staff to Congressman Bob McEwen (R-OH).

Evans views technology policy as a top priority in his mission to advocate for American business both at home and abroad. "Having Phil at my right hand at the helm of the Department ensures that our focus on technology as a vital component of our nation's economy continues," Evans said.

Fenton has agreed to stay on temporarily as counselor to Evans, to facilitate a smooth transition. After the rigors of helping get the new Commerce leadership in place and operating smoothly during the first year of the Bush Administration, she looks forward to a return to the private sector.