Matt Zames, a former JPMorgan Chase executive, will serve as an unpaid adviser to the Social Security Administration, according to reports. The appointment places a prominent Wall Street figure in a key advisory role within the federal agency.
Zames previously held the position of chief operating officer at JPMorgan, where he managed large-scale operations and technology initiatives. His background includes extensive work in risk management and financial infrastructure.
The advisory role is unpaid, according to the reports, signaling a voluntary commitment rather than a compensated position. Zames will provide guidance on matters related to the agency’s operations and modernization efforts.
Social Security Administration faces ongoing challenges with technology upgrades and customer service backlogs. The agency has sought outside expertise to address these issues while managing a complex benefits system.
Zames stepped down from JPMorgan in 2017 after a long tenure that included key roles during the 2008 financial crisis. He was part of the team that helped stabilize the bank during that period.
The new role does not come with executive authority, as the title indicates an advisory capacity. It remains unclear which specific areas Zames will focus on in his work with the agency.
His appointment reflects a broader trend of private-sector leaders contributing to federal government operations. The Social Security Administration has not issued a formal statement about the move.
Observers will watch whether Zames’ private-sector experience translates into measurable improvements for the agency’s digital systems and service delivery. No timeline for his advisory work has been disclosed.
