By: Lily Kerr
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) recently welcomed a new Deputy Director, Anupa Iyer Geevarghese, on September 3rd. Although an official announcement from OFCCP has not been made as of the writing of this blog, a brief biography of Geevarghese now appears within the “About Us” section of the agency’s website. The politically appointed Geevarghese joins two career officials, Michele Hodge (Acting Director) and Tina Williams (Acting Deputy Director), at the helm of the agency in the waning days of the Biden administration.
Geevarghese arrives at OFCCP following a stint as the Chief of Staff for the Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP). In this role, she partnered frequently with Department of Labor (DOL) leadership to explore ways to expand employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Geevarghese has also advised on matters concerning individuals with disabilities in several prior positions she has occupied in the public and nonprofit sectors.
It is currently unclear whether Geevarghese will replace Acting Deputy Director Tina Williams, or instead serve as a co-Deputy Director. Geevarghese’s specific duties and initiatives have not yet been announced. However, based on her background, it is reasonable to infer that the laws OFCCP enforces regarding individuals with disabilities will be an area of focus for the new Deputy Director.
DCI will keep abreast of any official communications released by OFCCP regarding this new appointment. Please stay tuned to our blog for further information as it becomes available.