The US Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) Adm. John Richardson announced that Fleet Master Chief Russell Smith has temporarily assumed the duties of the Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy (MCPON).
The announcement follows the resignation of Master Chief Steven Giordano who stepped down after reports emerged he had created a toxic work environment.
Smith will continue serving as senior enlisted leader for Manpower, Personnel, Training and Education, an assignment he’s held since January 2017.
“Master Chief Smith is an established leader and I thank him for accepting these important temporary duties until I select a new MCPON,” said Richardson. “He will represent our Sailors and families well.”
The navy said it would immediately start the process to select a new MCPON, who serves as the senior enlisted leader of the navy, and as an advisor to the Chief of Naval Operations and to the Chief of Naval Personnel in matters dealing with enlisted personnel and their families.
Giordano resigned on Thursday after it had been revealed he was under investigation by the Navy inspector general for alleged workplace misconduct.