Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has made significant changes to the leadership team at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), according to a report by ABC News. The Secretary has terminated the positions of two senior deputies: Heather Flick Melanson, who served as Kennedy's chief of staff, and Hannah Anderson, the deputy chief of staff of policy. This decision was confirmed by a spokesperson from the department as well as another source familiar with the matter.
As of now, neither Flick nor Anderson has publicly commented on their departures. The specifics surrounding the reasons for their ousters remain unclear. However, a source close to the situation indicated that Secretary Kennedy is well within his rights to make such personnel decisions. This shake-up is part of a broader strategy as Kennedy aims to shape the leadership structure of the HHS.
In a statement provided to ABC News, the department confirmed that Secretary Kennedy has implemented a leadership change within the Immediate Office of the Secretary. Effective immediately, Matt Buckham has been appointed as the Acting Chief of Staff. Prior to this role, Buckham served as Kennedy’s White House liaison at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Buckham brings a wealth of experience to his new position. He has been responsible for overseeing the recruitment and onboarding of political appointees across the agency, demonstrating his expertise in personnel strategy and organizational management. The statement from HHS highlighted Buckham's qualifications, suggesting that he will be a valuable asset in advancing the department’s objectives.
Secretary Kennedy expressed gratitude towards the outgoing leadership for their service and emphasized his anticipation of collaborating closely with Mr. Buckham. The HHS is committed to its mission of making America healthy again, and Kennedy’s leadership changes are seen as a step towards that goal.
As these developments unfold, the HHS continues to focus on its strategic priorities and the effective management of its resources. The changes in leadership are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the department’s future initiatives and policies aimed at improving public health across the nation.
