From the Trib:

A low-profile position in the current administration, the job is likely to be a higher-wattage one after Obama takes office this month.

Obama has promised an overhaul to federal regulation, specifically of the U.S. financial markets, and Sunstein’s job description suggests a sweeping agenda.

Sunstein has also been mentioned as a potential Supreme Court pick under Obama, although a position in the administration might reduce the likelihood that he’ll move to the bench.