A change in presidential administrations doesn’t just mean new policies and priorities in government – it also means new political appointees coming in and others moving out. Grant Haver, a former political appointee in the Department of Homeland Security, knows first-hand the experience of transitioning out of federal government and the sprint of service political appointees take on.
Grant created a resume bank resume bank to support political appointees who served with Team 46 during this critical career shift. Political appointees possess unique expertise—they’ve worked under immense pressure, tackled large-scale problems, and developed a global perspective on challenges like national security and governance. However, transitioning out of government roles can be overwhelming, especially when competing with peers from the same networks for similar opportunities.
He highlighted the value of “dual citizens”—professionals with experience in both the public and private sectors. These individuals bring a powerful combination of skills, such as managing scale, prioritizing safety, and adapting quickly to change, that can greatly benefit private organizations.
His message to employers? Political appointees are not only highly skilled but also ready to make a significant impact in the private sector.
Like federal employees or service members transitioning, political appointees face specific rules about what jobs they can pursue. Political appointees should heed any advice provided in out-briefings, but take full advantage of career resources like ClearanceJobs.com to help them connect with employers and find government and contract opportunities that match their skillsets.
Listen in to learn more about Grant’s work and the broader impact of political transitions on the workforce. And this holiday season, let’s share the gift of opportunity with those who’ve dedicated their careers to serving our nation.
