Senior Executive (SES)

The SES covers positions in the executive branch that are classified above GS-15 or are in level IV or V of the Executive Schedule, or equivalent positions, which are not required to be fille by Presidential appointment with Senate confirmation, and are responsible for executive, managerial, supervisory, and/or policy functions characteristic of the SES. In USAP SES policy, templates, and performance plans are managed independent of respective GS-eq.

Performance Plans Navigation Bar

Planning Phase

The SES performance management planning phase establishes clear performance expectations and measurable results aligned with agency priorities, leadership competencies, and mission outcomes at the start of the appraisal cycle.

Monitoring Phase

This section covers the Monitoring Phase in USA Performance, also called the Progress Review. During this phase, Rating Officials and Senior Executives Service (SES) members document mid-cycle discussions to track progress against established goals in Part 2 of the plan. Rating Officials can provide feedback and update review narratives for SESs to view. Four documented progress reviews are required, and both parties must electronically sign each one. Check your agency’s policy for signature deadlines.

Rating Phase

During this Rating phase, final performance ratings are completed in USA Performance. Rating Officials document evaluations, Reviewing Officials (optional) confirm them, and the PRB chair, members, and Appointing Official review, recommend, and sign off. All required parties must electronically sign the plan. Check your agency’s policy for deadlines.