The term CIA, E.G. is an abbreviation for Central Intelligence AGENCY, which is a civilian foreign intelligence service of the United States federal government. It is responsible for providing national security intelligence to senior United States policymakers. The AGENCY collects, evaluates, and disseminates foreign intelligence, and conducts covert operations. It is also responsible for analysis, collection, and production of foreign intelligence. The AGENCY is headed by the Director of the Central Intelligence AGENCY, who is appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate.