Matthew Swartz tapped to lead Navy staff as dual-hatted executive director

Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle announced today that Matthew Swartz has assumed duties as Director Navy Staff while continuing to serve as executive director on the CNO staff, a consolidation intended to shift the Navy staff from a peacetime posture to a warfighting footing in line with newly released U.S. Navy Fighting Instructions.

“Our Total Force, comprised of world-class Sailors and Civilians, is our most decisive warfighting advantage,” said Caudle. “By dual-hatting Matt in these critical roles, we are sharpening the focus, accountability, and speed of our Navy staff to better support the Fleet and deliver on our warfighting priorities. His experience and leadership are essential to driving alignment between staffs, enforcing high standards, and empowering our civilian and military professionals to think, act, and perform with the urgency required to prevail in an ever evolving and complex maritime Environment.”

The Navy said the move supports Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao’s priorities, including taking care of sailors to ensure mission success, building the platforms outlined under the Golden Fleet Initiative, and maintaining a firm focus on defending the homeland.

As Director Navy Staff and executive director, Swartz will coordinate the Navy Staff, serve as senior advisor for the civilian workforce, and drive a warfighting mindset across the total force. He will also continue outreach with academic and community partners to bolster the Navy’s industrial base.

“I am honored to serve as the Director of Navy Staff and support the dedicated military and civilian professionals within this organization,” Swartz said. “My goal is to ensure our team has the coordination and resources necessary to effectively manage the business of the Navy. We remain focused on empowering our people as we advance Admiral Caudle’s priorities of Foundry, Fleet and Fight.”

Swartz previously served as executive director for U.S. Fleet Forces Command and held senior roles at Naval Information Forces and U.S. Fleet Cyber Command. He holds Master of Science degrees from the University of Virginia and the National Defense University, and his awards include a Presidential Rank Award and multiple Department of the Navy civilian service honors.