Office of the Executive Secretariat
On this page:
Overview
FDA’s OES, within the Office of the Commissioner, integrates critical FDA administrative and communication functions to ensure high-quality information is shared within FDA and with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), other governmental organizations, and the public.
The Executive Secretariat (ExecSec) serves as the central hub for information management and coordination across the FDA, working to facilitate transparent and efficient information flows while identifying opportunities to harmonize communication pathways. ExecSec partners with Centers, Offices, and Programs throughout the agency to document information processes and support the deployment of technology tools that enhance operational efficiency. The office plays a critical role in reviewing, editing, and clearing high-level documents—including reports to executive agencies, Congressional correspondence, and materials requiring signatures from the HHS Secretary or FDA Commissioner. ExecSec coordinates essential activities such as briefings and meetings with senior leadership, responds to data calls from the White House and HHS, drafts executive-level correspondence, and maintains public calendars for the Commissioner and senior executives. Additionally, the office manages incoming communications by routing correspondences, triaging write-in campaign letters, and facilitating records management of key documents.
Vision
An Executive Secretariat that is the backbone of the FDA; we provide stability and deliver information to everyone who needs it.
Mission
Build the ExecSec for the next 20 years.
Key Functions
Provide advice to the FDA Commissioner and senior leadership on agency-wide programs and initiatives. Communicates decisions and assignments from top leadership to appropriate FDA staff throughout the organization.
Creates and maintains information systems to monitor progress toward the Commissioner's goals and FDA's key priorities, ensuring leadership stays informed about organizational performance.
Ensures that all materials and recommendations presented to the Commissioner are thorough, accurate, and include comprehensive discussion of relevant issues and implications.
Handles all public correspondence directed to the Commissioner, including developing tracking systems to identify potential delays or problems with executive-level communications and ensuring timely responses.
Provides direct administrative and informational support to senior FDA leadership, including preparing briefing materials, background information for meetings, responding to external inquiries, and managing the Commissioner's official files.
Takes on complex, agency-wide assignments involving FDA programs and strategies, including preparing specialized reports for the Department of Health and Human Services.
Manages the internal review process for important agency documents, including policies, guidance documents, Congressional reports, and regulations.
Manages FDA's communications with other federal health agencies, including the Public Health Service, Department of Health and Human Services, and the White House, handling correspondence that requires high-level signatures.
The FDA OES functions are outlined in Staff Manual Guide Organizations and Functions, Volume I (1000-1300) (SMG).