The DNI serves as the head of the US Intelligence Community, overseeing and directing the implementation of the National Intelligence Program and acting as the principal advisor to the President of the United States, the National Security Council, and the Homeland Security Council for intelligence matters related to national security. Working closely with the Principal Deputy DNI, Deputy Directors and Mission managers, the Office of the DNI's goal is to effectively integrate foreign, military and domestic intelligence in defense of the homeland and of United States interest aboard.

In the wake of 9/11, the largest restructuring of American intelligence in almost 60 years was set in motion by the signing of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act (IRTPA). The IRTPA amended the National Security Act of 1947 which remains the dominant paradigm for the nation's intelligence effort. In 2008, Executive Order 12333, which governs United States intelligence activities, was revised to implement the reforms enacted into law by the IRTPA, creating a more unified, integrated and collaborative Intelligence Community under the leadership of the Director of National Intelligence.

The Office of the Director of National Intelligence seeks to employ individuals who want to be a part of building a globally networked and integrated intelligence enterprise, effecting pivotal policies and defining programs that will make a difference long into the future. To respond effectively to the changing strategic landscape, the IC needs structures, people and systems aligned to ensure a unified effort, ready to adapt with greater agility to help the IC's customers achieve decision advantage.