CORRECTED: U.S. Department of Labor Announces New Ombudsman For Federal Contract Compliance Programs

WASHINGTON, DC - The U.S. Department of Labor has announced the appointment of the Department’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) Ombudsman, Marcus Stergio. OFCCP first announced its plan to implement an Ombudsman in September 2018 in Directive (DIR 2018-09).

The Ombudsman will work with a variety of OFCCP stakeholders nationwide, including federal contractors and subcontractors, contractor representatives, industry groups, law firms, complainants, worker rights organizations, and current and potential employees of federal contractors and subcontractors. The new Ombudsman will also provide assurance to contractors and other stakeholders that OFCCP is treating them fairly, in a manner consistent with the Agency’s legal authorities, policies, and procedures. It is also intended to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of internal OFCCP operations.

“The Ombudsman fits squarely within the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs’ broader initiative to improve transparency in our compliance evaluation and compliance assistance activities,” said OFCCP Director Craig E. Leen. “The Ombudsman will provide an independent perspective and facilitate communication between external stakeholders and OFCCP regional and district offices.”

Stergio has previously served as the primary administrator of the dispute resolution process for a number of multi-national organizations, companies and institutions. He received his Master’s degree in conflict resolution from the University of Massachusetts, Boston and his Bachelor’s degree from Northeastern University. Stergio also took part in Harvard Law School’s Program on Negotiation and Dispute Resolution in 2013.

OFCCP enforces federal laws that prohibit federal contractors and subcontractors from discriminating on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran. In addition, contractors and subcontractors are prohibited from discriminating against applicants or employees because they inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or that of others, subject to certain limitations.

The mission of the Department of Labor is to foster, promote, and develop the welfare of the wage earners, job seekers, and retirees of the United States; improve working conditions; advance opportunities for profitable employment; and assure work-related benefits and rights.

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Editor’s note: This news release was changed to clarify Stergio’s educational background.