FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
1/15/2026
media@conginst.org

Alexandria, VA — The Board of Directors of the Congressional Institute has selected Derek Harley to serve as its next President and Chief Executive Officer, effective November 24.

Harley brings nearly 25 years of House experience to the role, most recently serving as Director of House Operations for Speaker Mike Johnson, where he oversaw coordination with key House officers, committees, and leadership on institutional, administrative, and operational matters. In that capacity, he worked closely with the Clerk, Chief Administrative Officer, Sergeant at Arms, and the Committee on House Administration to support Members and staff in the daily functioning of the House.

Harley previously served as Staff Director of the Modernization Subcommittee on the Committee on House Administration and as Republican Staff Director of the Select Committee on the Modernization of Congress, where he helped advance a series of bipartisan recommendations to strengthen House operations, technology, and support systems for Member offices.

Before returning to the House, Harley served as Senior Vice President of Federal Affairs for Shumaker Advisors. Earlier in his career, he held senior roles for former Rep. Wally Herger (CA-02) and former Rep. Brad Wenstrup (OH-02), including chief of staff.

“Derek Harley has spent his career advancing the mission and effectiveness of the U.S. House of Representatives,” said Brenda Becker, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Congressional Institute. “His operational expertise and understanding of congressional processes make him the ideal choice to lead the Institute into its next chapter.”

“For 25 years, Derek has faithfully served the People’s House with distinction, ensuring that Members of Congress have the tools they need to best serve their constituents,” said Speaker Mike Johnson. “We are all very grateful for his years of service to the Congress, and we look forward to his tenure at the helm of the Congressional Institute in these historic times.”

Harley holds a bachelor’s degree from Bucknell University and a law degree from Case Western Reserve University.

“I am honored to join the Congressional Institute and continue its work supporting the legislative branch,” Harley said. “Having spent my career serving Congress from the inside, I look forward to building on the Institute’s role in strengthening Congress as an institution.”

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Alexandria, VA 22314