Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Announces Key Leadership Changes at HHS in Major Department Restructuring

U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has announced significant changes to his management team as part of a broader restructuring effort within the department. The leadership updates, detailed in an official HHS statement released Thursday, signal a strategic shift aimed at strengthening oversight and streamlining operations across key federal health agencies.

As part of the restructuring, Chris Klomp has been appointed chief counselor and will oversee all department operations. In this expanded leadership role, Klomp is expected to coordinate cross-agency initiatives and support Secretary Kennedy’s priorities across the Department of Health and Human Services. The appointment positions him at the center of HHS management and policy execution.

The leadership shake-up also includes new senior counselors for two major federal health agencies. Kyle Diamantas and Grace Graham have been named senior counselors for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). In their new roles, they will advise on regulatory policy, public health initiatives, and operational strategy within the FDA, a critical agency responsible for overseeing food safety, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and vaccine regulation.

Additionally, John Brooks has been appointed senior counselor for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). CMS plays a pivotal role in administering Medicare and Medicaid programs, which provide health coverage to millions of Americans. Brooks’ appointment is expected to support policy development and operational improvements within the agency.

The HHS restructuring reflects Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s efforts to reshape department leadership and reinforce coordination among its key divisions, including the FDA and CMS. The newly appointed officials are anticipated to play influential roles in advancing the department’s healthcare priorities and regulatory agenda.