Jeff Zients

American business executive and government official

Jeff Zients in 2023

Jeffrey Dunston Zients (born November 12, 1966) is an American business executive and government official who has served in various roles within the United States government. He is currently the White House Chief of Staff, a position he assumed in 2023 under President Joe Biden. Zients has a background in business and management consulting and has been involved in several public and private sector initiatives.

Early Life and Education

Jeff Zients was born in Washington, D.C., and raised in the Kensington, Maryland area. He attended St. Albans School, a private preparatory school in Washington, D.C. Zients went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Duke University in 1988.

Business Career

Zients began his career at the management consulting firm Bain & Company, where he developed his skills in business strategy and operations. He later joined The Advisory Board Company, a healthcare research and consulting firm, where he rose to the position of Chief Operating Officer. Zients was instrumental in the company's growth and eventual public offering.

In 2001, Zients co-founded Portfolio Logic, an investment firm focused on healthcare and business services. His success in the private sector earned him recognition as a leading business executive.

Government Service

Office of Management and Budget

Zients speaking at a White House press briefing in 2011

Zients first entered public service in 2009 when he was appointed as the Chief Performance Officer of the United States and Deputy Director for Management of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under President Barack Obama. In this role, he focused on improving government efficiency and performance.

National Economic Council

In 2013, Zients was appointed as the Director of the National Economic Council and Assistant to the President for Economic Policy. During his tenure, he played a key role in shaping economic policy and addressing issues such as the Affordable Care Act implementation.

COVID-19 Response Coordinator

In 2021, President Joe Biden appointed Zients as the White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator. Zients led efforts to manage the federal government's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including vaccine distribution and public health measures.

White House Chief of Staff

In 2023, Zients was appointed as the White House Chief of Staff, succeeding Ron Klain. In this capacity, he oversees the Executive Office of the President and advises the President on a wide range of issues.

Personal Life

Zients is married to Mary Menell, and they have four children. The family resides in Washington, D.C. Zients is known for his commitment to public service and his ability to navigate complex organizational challenges.

Related Pages

• White House Chief of Staff
• National Economic Council
• Office of Management and Budget
• COVID-19 pandemic in the United States

Zients at a White House event in 2021