TMF executive director resigns

Bafundo announced his decision on LinkedIn. He joined TMF in January 2024, initially as deputy executive director, following a two-year stint at the Department of Labor.

“I’ve decided to step away from my role at GSA,” Bafundo said. “The Technology Modernization Fund was created to break the cycle of legacy IT and change how agencies build, buy, and evolve technology. But modernizing government is about more than just technology — it requires changing complex systems.”

His departure follows a series of announcements from the agency regarding reductions in force, probationary layoffs and changes in government contracting.

“Many of the toughest challenges don’t fit into a two- or four-year political cycle. It has been disheartening to see public servants disparaged in the media recently. Are there opportunities to improve? Yes. But for the most part, public servants are smart, tenacious, and dedicated people who work every day to make the country better,” Bafundo wrote. “They’re also your neighbors, family members and friends. The challenges ahead are significant, but so is the opportunity, not just to improve the government we have, but to realize the government we deserve.”

GSA Acting Administrator Stephen Ehikian confirmed to Nextgov/FCW that Jessie Posilkin, who has previously served as TMF acting executive director, will take up the position again following Bafundo's departure.

"Under his leadership, the TMF has helped innovate across government through investments in artificial intelligence, shared services, and cybersecurity, with projected cost savings of $1.2B," Ehikian wrote. "[The Office of Management and Budget] will continue to provide expertise in the federal budgeting process, policy, and regulations. The TMF Board of experienced federal technology executives will continue investigating where to invest the fund’s dollars, monitor progress and performance of TMF investments, and offer their expertise to federal agencies looking to modernize and innovate. Every day, the TMF delivers tremendous value for the millions of people we serve – and I know they will continue to help agencies reimagine and transform the way they use technology to deliver services to Americans in rapid, cost-effective ways."

Bafundo’s resignation also follows an increased presence of Department of Government Efficiency personnel at GSA. DOGE, created to improve tech efficiency and reduce the federal workforce, has been actively canceling government contracts. On Thursday, DOGE announced the cancellation of a $6 million TMF award to convert the Office of Personnel Management’s website to a new platform.  

Even before the new administration, the TMF was at a tipping point in its ability to fund government IT projects. Changes to the fund’s repayment requirements and a lack of appropriations in recent funding bills have slowly drained it of capital.

Rep. Gerry Connolly, D-Va., told Nextgov/FCW in September that the fund could itself be in danger, the blame for which is “entirely laid at the doorstep of Congress.”

Editor's note: This story has been updated to include a comment from GSA.