John H. Thompson was sworn in as the 24th Census Bureau Director on Aug. 8, 2013.

A statistician and executive, Thompson had been President and CEO of NORC at the University of Chicago since 2008. He served as the independent research organization's Executive Vice President from 2002 to 2008. NORC, previously known as the National Opinion Research Center, collaborates with government agencies, foundations, education institutions, nonprofit organizations and businesses to provide data and analysis that support informed decision making in key areas including health, education, criminal justice, energy, substance abuse, mental health, and the environment.

As Director, Thompson will oversee preparations for the 2020 Census and preside over more than 100 other censuses and surveys, which measure America's people, places and economy, and provide the basis for crucial economic indicators such as the unemployment rate.

Upon being confirmed, Thompson said: "As America forges its data-driven future, the Census Bureau must lead the way by tracking emerging trends, developing more efficient processes and embracing new technologies for planning and executing the surveys it conducts that are so important to the nation. A culture of innovation and adaptability will allow the Census Bureau to serve the public's needs and meet the challenges of this dynamic new environment."