Frank Bisignano has been appointed as the inaugural CEO of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), a position recently created to enhance leadership within the agency. This decision was announced on October 6, 2025, amid ongoing changes in the IRS’s management structure.
Role and Responsibilities
Bisignano currently serves as the Commissioner of the Social Security Administration (SSA) and will retain this role alongside his new position. He will report directly to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who is also the acting IRS commissioner.
- Oversee day-to-day operations of the IRS.
- Cooperate with the SSA on shared technological and customer service goals.
- Maintain responsibilities as SSA Commissioner.
Controversial Appointment
His dual role raises concerns among various advocacy groups about the implications of such appointments. Kathleen Romig from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities expressed worries regarding the lack of Senate confirmation for Bisignano’s new role. She questioned the wisdom of having one person responsible for both the IRS and the government’s largest social program.
Nancy Altman, President of Social Security Works, highlighted the potential risks associated with Bisignano’s divided focus. She noted that his simultaneous leadership of both agencies could complicate problem-solving efforts, particularly in a time of significant policy changes.
Background and Previous Experience
Bisignano has been the chair of Fiserv, a financial technology company, since 2020. He is also recognized for his advocacy in corporate policies aimed at safeguarding LGBTQ+ rights from discrimination.
The establishment of the CEO position at the IRS marks a significant shift in the agency’s approach to leadership. This move comes as part of broader changes initiated by the Trump administration, which has seen a series of leadership transitions since his term began.
IRS Leadership Changes
Frank Bisignano is the latest official among several others, including Scott Bessent, Marco Rubio, and Sean Duffy, who have held multiple roles within the administration. Since August, Bessent has served as the acting IRS commissioner following the abrupt removal of former commissioner Billy Long.
As Bisignano embarks on his new position, the IRS and SSA’s overlapping goals and missions will undoubtedly shape his approach to both agencies’ operations.
