Senate Confirms Keith Sonderling as Deputy Secretary of Labor

On March 12, the Senate confirmed Keith Sonderling as deputy secretary of Labor in a 53-46 vote, completing top leadership at the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). He will join newly confirmed Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer as they collaborate to uphold the DOL’s mission to support workers, improve working conditions, expand job opportunities, and protect employment rights. In this role, similar to that of a COO, Sonderling will oversee workforce management and daily operations under Secretary Chavez-DeRemer.

Sonderling previously served as a commissioner on the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and as deputy administrator in the DOL’s Wage and Hour Division. He is known for his expertise in artificial intelligence and its impact on the workplace, particularly in human resources. His insights are expected to help guide the DOL as technology reshapes the workforce.

SHRM submitted a letter to the Senate supporting Sonderling’s nomination, highlighting his commitment to working with employers, employees, policymakers, and advocacy groups.  His “collaborative spirit, coupled with his ability to promote smart, pragmatic solutions, will serve the DOL and the American workforce well,” SHRM said.