Frank Bisignano, the current Social Security Administration Commissioner, has been appointed as the first IRS CEO. The White House announced his new role on Monday.
The appointment makes Frank Bisignano IRS CEO responsible for running two major U.S. agencies at once. He will continue leading the Social Security Administration while managing the Internal Revenue Service’s daily operations.
Bisignano will report to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who is serving as acting IRS commissioner. The Treasury Department did not say whether the new role will need Senate confirmation.
Dual roles and growing authority
The Trump administration has often given top officials multiple jobs. Bisignano now joins that list. Others holding dual roles include Bessent, Marco Rubio, Sean Duffy, Jamieson Greer, and Russell Vought.
Bessent praised the decision. He said the IRS and Social Security share “many of the same technology and service goals.” That, he added, makes Frank Bisignano IRS CEO a logical choice.
The Treasury said Bisignano will focus on modernizing systems and improving digital services. He will also push fraud prevention and better data sharing between agencies.
Strong business background
Before joining government, Bisignano led Fiserv, a major financial technology firm. As its chairman and CEO, he pushed digital innovation and expanded financial access.
He is known for a hands-on management style and support for inclusive workplace policies. His efforts to protect LGBTQ+ rights in business earned industry praise.
Analysts say his private-sector background could help him reform both the IRS and SSA. “He understands efficiency and modernization,” said one Treasury official. “Those skills are critical for two complex agencies.”
IRS faces leadership instability
The IRS has seen several leadership changes under Trump. Bessent became acting commissioner in August after Billy Long was removed from the post. Long had served less than two months before being appointed ambassador to Iceland.
Before Long, the IRS had four acting commissioners. One resigned over a controversial data-sharing deal with the Department of Homeland Security. Another appointment sparked a dispute between Elon Musk and Bessent.
These rapid changes have raised concerns about the IRS’s direction. Lawmakers have urged stability and more transparency within the agency.
New structure, high expectations
The new IRS CEO position is meant to separate daily operations from policy decisions. Frank Bisignano IRS CEO will handle management, while Bessent focuses on financial strategy.
Supporters believe this structure could improve coordination between tax collection and social programs. Critics argue it gives too much control to one person.
“Running both the IRS and Social Security is a huge challenge,” said a former Treasury adviser. “Even a capable leader will face pressure.”
Despite concerns, the Trump administration appears confident. Bessent called Bisignano “a results-driven leader who brings corporate efficiency to government.”
A pivotal moment for federal agencies
The IRS and Social Security serve hundreds of millions of Americans. Both face criticism for slow service and outdated technology.
By appointing Frank Bisignano IRS CEO, the administration hopes to streamline systems and restore public trust. His dual role could redefine how these institutions work together.
For now, Bisignano holds one of Washington’s toughest jobs — steering two vital agencies during a time of political and economic strain.
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