; and (ii) shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment. (3) Chairperson, vice chairperson, and executive subcommittee (A) Election At the first meeting of the Committee each calendar year, the Committee shall elect from among the members of the Committee— (i) a chairperson; (ii) a vice chairperson; and (iii) 7 members to serve on the executive subcommittee established under subparagraph (B). (B) Executive subcommittee The Committee shall establish an executive subcommittee charged with the responsibility of working with the Secretary and officers and employees of the Department of Agriculture to summarize and disseminate the recommendations of the Committee. (d) Consultation and recommendations (1) Duties of Committee In fulfilling the duties of the Committee under this section, the Committee shall consult with appropriate agencies of the Department of Agriculture. (2) Duties of Secretary After receiving recommendations from the Committee pursuant to any provision in this section, the Secretary shall provide a written response to the Committee regarding the manner and extent to which the Secretary will implement such recommendations. (e) Compensation and personnel (1) Appointment of executive director and staff To assist the Committee in the performance of the duties of the Committee, the Secretary may appoint, without regard to the civil service laws, and after consultation with the chairperson of the Committee— (A) a full-time executive director, who shall— (i) perform such duties as the chairperson of the Committee may direct; and (ii) receive compensation at a rate not to exceed the rate payable for GS–15 of the General Schedule established by section 5332 of title 5, United States Code