In results that largely mirror government-wide findings in the annual Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey, a survey of Consumer Financial Protection Bureau disclosed “concerns related to fair treatment, trust that employees can raise concerns without fear of reprisal, confidence in complaint processes, and other matters.”
GAO conducted the survey as part of a review of personnel practices at the agency in light of congressional hearings that included testimony from CFPB employees about allegations of discrimination and retaliation.
More than 25 percent of respondents to the GAO survey had unfavorable views regarding reprisal and the complaint process; dissatisfaction was above 35 percent in some CFPB offices and demographic groups. For example, about one-third of respondents disagreed with the statement that success at CFPB is based more on merit than on personal connections or favoritism.
GAO did credit agency management for taking actions including expanded training, guidance on personnel practices, a new performance management system, and adopting leading practices in workplace diversity.
“In addition, CFPB launched a new initiative to strengthen its organizational culture that includes obtaining employee input on ideas for improving CFPB’s culture and addressing employee concerns. Finally, CFPB has strengthened its employee complaint processes by providing new training and guidance and creating feedback mechanisms to help evaluate progress in some areas,” it said.
