New book examines challenges of political leadership

Ernst & Young LLP Book Profiles 42 Deputy Secretaries and agency heads of Obama Administration

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Feb 18, 2014, 09:00 ET

WASHINGTON, Feb. 18, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- The Government and Public Sector practice of Ernst & Young LLP provides insight on the management challenges of top US political appointees and presents findings from a four-year study in a new book, What Government Does: How Political Executives Manage. The book includes profiles and case studies on 42 Deputy Secretaries and agency heads showing how each approaches the unique management challenges and achieves the mission of their organization.

"There is growing interest in and scrutiny of the selection process of government appointees, as well as how political leaders do their jobs," said Paul Lawrence, Principal, Ernst & Young LLP, leader of its Federal Government Consulting Practice and co-author of the book. "Understanding these experiences and successful processes will help all stakeholders involved, and may ultimately lead to better government."

The book offers practical advice to current and prospective appointees as well as behind-the-scenes insights to others who want to understand how leaders make government agencies more effective. Published by Rowman & Littlefield Publishing Group, it is a follow up to Lawrence's earlier book, Paths to Making a Difference: Leading In Government. Together, they chronicle the experiences, challenges and success of top political appointees serving both Obama administrations.

The book is available in paperback through Rowman & Littlefield as well as online retailers.

For more information about What Government Does: How Political Executives Manage, please visit http://ey.com/whatgovernmentdoes.

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