Werfel, who will take up the post on May 22, is one of President Obama’s key aides on the economy, serving, since October 2009, as controller of the Office of Management and Budget, which is responsible for federal programme integrity, including all areas of financial management, financial reporting, accounting standards, improper payments and financial systems.
He has agreed to join the IRS until September 30, the end of the US fiscal year.
Werfel replaces Steven Miller, who resigned as acting IRS commissioner on Wednesday in response to the furore about the tax authorities’ unfair scrutiny of right-wing groups applying for tax-exempt status.
“As Acting Commissioner, Mr Werfel will lead efforts to ensure the IRS implements new safeguards to restore public trust and administers the tax code with fairness and integrity,”said a statement from the White House.
Werfel holds a masters degree in public policy, a law degree and a bachelors degree in industrial and labour relations.
