What is the title of the individual in charge of the Department of Defense?

The individual currently responsible for the Department of Defense is the Honorable Lloyd Austin. He was confirmed as the Secretary of Defense in January 2021, making him the first African American to hold this position in U.S. history. The Secretary of Defense is a crucial member of the president's cabinet and is responsible for coordinating and supervising all agencies and functions of the government relating directly to national security and the military.

Mark Esper previously held the role but was replaced by Austin, while James Mattis served as Secretary of Defense prior to Esper. Pete Hegseth is not affiliated with this position; he is known as a television personality and political figure rather than an appointed official in the Department of Defense. This context is important for understanding the leadership structure within the Department and who is currently guiding national defense policies.