For Immediate Release
April 7, 2025
Contact: Communications Director Nikki Gamer | Cell #: (978) 884-0003 | gamer@afsa.org

Washington, D.C. – The American Foreign Service Association is deeply concerned by the appointment of Lew Olowski as senior bureau official of the State Department’s Bureau of Global Talent Management (GTM), a role that makes him the acting director general of the U.S. Foreign Service. This is one of the State Department’s most senior leadership positions—traditionally filled by career members of the senior Foreign Service with decades of experience and proven ability to do the job.

The Foreign Service is a competitive, merit-based institution, built on a foundation of expertise, service, and nonpartisanship. Placing an untenured, entry-level officer who has only served one complete overseas tour into this critical role, even in an acting capacity, not only disregards that tradition but also sends a clear message about the value this administration places on experience and professional progression.

To draw a parallel: This would be akin to placing a junior military officer, who has not yet completed a command tour, in charge of the Pentagon’s personnel system. It undermines the structure, discipline, and standards that are vital to maintaining an effective national security workforce.

AFSA continues to advocate for leadership that reflects the values and standards that have long defined America’s diplomatic corps—professionalism, experience, and a steadfast commitment to nonpartisan service.

The American Foreign Service Association (AFSA) is the professional association and labor union of the men and women of the United States Foreign Service.