Should a person be eligible for SECDEF or other high-ranking civilian posting after serving on the board of major Defence Contractors?

2021-03-02T08:37:59-05:00

See Lloyd Austin for example

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Mar 2 at 2021 9:48 AM

2021-03-02T09:48:47-05:00

Why not? If the person is a highly successful manager in the private sector, hopefully they will be a highly successful manager in the public sector. This is a political appointment. He or she should recuse themselves from any contracting decisions involving their previous employer. There’s DoD contracting rules about this.

Response by SFC Casey O'Mally made Mar 2 at 2021 10:09 AM

2021-03-02T10:09:39-05:00

In general, yes. In my opinion, the opposite direction is the more dangerous one. Going from SECDEF, SECArmy, General, Contracing Officer, etc. into a position on a defense contractor. It really calls into question those contracting decisions they made in an official capacity and if this high-paying position is a kickback.

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Mar 2 at 2021 3:33 PM

2021-03-02T15:33:45-05:00

I don't see an issue as long as they severe those ties when they step into the new job. I could see a conflict of interest if someone still maintains affiliations and is profiting from decisions made as SECDEF eyc.

Response by SFC Melvin Brandenburg made Mar 2 at 2021 3:35 PM

2021-03-02T15:35:47-05:00

I think so