Department of Labor Announces New Leadership
At Bureau of International Labor Affairs

WASHINGTON — U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao announced today a new leadership team at the Labor Department's Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB). James Carter starts this week as deputy undersecretary of labor for international labor affairs, and ILAB Chief of Staff Rob Owen has been promoted to associate deputy undersecretary for international labor affairs.

"Jim Carter will be a great addition to ILAB," said Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao. "He and Rob Owen, formerly chief of staff in ILAB,and the new associate deputy undersecretary for international labor affairs, will do a great job for ILAB."

Carter most recently served as deputy assistant secretary for economic policy at the U.S. Department of Treasury. Carter previously served as associate director at the White House National Economic Council and has served in several positions on Capitol Hill and at the Office of Management and Budget. He holds a Master of Public Administration degree from George Mason University and a Bachelor of Science degree in political science from Truman State University.

Prior to being named ILAB's chief of staff, Owen served as deputy counselor in the Department of Labor's Office of the Secretary. Owen had previously served in the legislative branch, as counsel to the U.S. Senate's Committee on Governmental Affairs. He holds a law degree and a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from the University of Nebraska.

ILAB carries out the Department of Labor's international responsibilities. The bureau is responsible for developing departmental policy and programs relating to international labor activities and coordinating departmental international activities involving other U.S. Government agencies, intergovernmental organizations and nongovernmental organizations including the International Labor Organization. ILAB also administers the North American Agreement on Labor Cooperation, the labor side agreement to NAFTA, and the other labor chapters included in U.S. free trade agreements.

Archived News Release — Caution: Information may be out of date.