Thomas Richards is the Director of Communication & Public Liaison at the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). In this position, he coordinates a comprehensive effort to inform the public of the President's and the Director's goals, plans, and activities through various media outlets; provides the American citizenry, Federal agency customers, and pertinent stakeholders with accurate information to aid in their planning and decision-making process; and plans and coordinates the publication and production of all audio/visual, digital, and other materials generated from OPM offices and develops briefing materials for Congress, the Director, and other OPM officials for various briefings and events
Prior to his current assignment he served as Deputy Director of Congressional and Legislative Affairs (CLA). In this position, Mr. Richards advocated for the legislative and policy priorities of the Director and the Administration. He was responsible for educating, responding to, interacting with, and advising Congress on Federal Government management, employee pay and benefits, and related policies within OPM's purview.
In the 109th and part of the 110th Congresses, Mr. Richards served as Professional Staff for Senator Daniel K. Akaka (D-HI) on the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Management, the Federal Workforce, and the District of Columbia. The Subcommittee has jurisdiction over government-wide management issues, Federal employee policies, and the municipal affairs of the District of Columbia (DC).
Prior to working in the Senate, Mr. Richards served in a number of roles at the Federal Managers Association (FMA), a membership based advocacy association representing executives, managers, and supervisors in the Federal Government, most recently as Executive Director. He joined FMA from the legislative staff of Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD), where he advanced appropriations and authorization priorities. Mr. Richards also worked at the New Democrat Network as a Special Assistant to the President.
Mr. Richards holds a Bachelor degree in Social Science and Philosophy from James Madison University.
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