Who has the authority to appoint record custodians within an office of record?

The Chief of Office of Records holds the authority to appoint record custodians within an office of record. This position is responsible for overseeing the management of records within their jurisdiction and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations. By appointing record custodians, the Chief establishes a clear line of accountability and responsibility for the maintenance and protection of records, which is critical for preserving organizational integrity and facilitating access to information as needed.

Other roles, such as the base records manager, command records manager, and functional area records manager, may play significant roles in records management and provide guidance or support, but the specific authority to appoint custodians typically resides with the Chief of Office of Records. This structured hierarchy helps ensure that records are managed effectively and in alignment with organizational policies.