U.S. Marine Corps Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

The U.S. Marine Corps has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, technology, operations, and finance.

Driven by a mission to conduct task forces on land, at sea, and in the air, U.S. Marine Corps operates with the United States Navy, Army, and Air Force, upholding a legacy of decisive action and expeditionary excellence.

Leadership Roles at U.S. Marine Corps

  • Chief Financial Officer, Blount Island Command - Peter Lawless
  • Chief Operating Officer - Clarence Davis
  • Chief of Staff - Scott Helminski
  • Chief Information Officer - David DiEugenio
  • Mcwl Command Information Officer & Ac S G6, Technology & Cybersecurity Neller Center Chief Information Officer & Director - Scott Mercer
  • Training & Education Command Chief of Staff - Benjamin Venning
  • Chief of Staff, MCRC - Robert Golden
  • Assistance Chief of Staff - Mark Phifer
  • Instructor Pilot. Chief of Staff - James Cappabianca
  • Chief of Staff 2d Maw - Caveman Holzworth
  • Peter Lawless - Chief Financial Officer, Blount Island Command

    Peter Lawless, the Chief Financial Officer, Blount Island Command at U.S. Marine Corps, manages the fiscal operations and financial planning for critical logistical support activities. Lawless oversees budget allocation, expenditure tracking, and financial reporting, ensuring fiscal responsibility and compliance. This position is essential for the effective sustainment of operations, supporting the U.S. Marine Corps' mission to conduct task forces on land, at sea, and in the air, particularly at key logistical hubs like Blount Island. Peter Lawless's financial acumen ensures that resources are utilized efficiently to support mission readiness and operational requirements. The Chief Financial Officer drives financial strategies that optimize resource management and support long-term strategic goals. Lawless's oversight guarantees the financial integrity of the Blount Island Command's operations.

    Clarence Davis - Chief Operating Officer

    Clarence Davis, the Chief Operating Officer at U.S. Marine Corps, executes the logistical and operational frameworks that enable global force projection. Davis oversees the efficient deployment and sustainment of Marine Corps units, ensuring readiness across land, sea, and air operations. This position is fundamental to the U.S. Marine Corps' mandate to conduct task forces worldwide, managing the complex interplay of personnel, equipment, and resources. Clarence Davis's operational oversight guarantees that the force can respond effectively to diverse mission requirements, from humanitarian assistance to high-intensity combat operations. The Chief Operating Officer drives process improvements and resource optimization, enhancing the overall effectiveness and responsiveness of the U.S. Marine Corps. Davis's focus remains on maintaining peak operational efficiency and ensuring the seamless integration of all support functions critical to mission success.

    Scott Helminski - Chief of Staff

    Scott Helminski, the Chief of Staff at U.S. Marine Corps, directs the strategic alignment of internal operations and administrative functions. Helminski oversees the coordination of key departmental initiatives, ensuring seamless execution of directives from higher command. This leadership position involves managing the flow of information and resources across various commands, optimizing efficiency in support of the U.S. Marine Corps' mission to conduct task forces on land, at sea, and in the air. Scott Helminski's role is critical in maintaining operational readiness and facilitating effective communication channels throughout the organization. The Chief of Staff ensures that all staff actions directly contribute to the overarching objectives of the U.S. Marine Corps, supporting its operational tempo and strategic goals within the broader defense framework. This involves rigorous planning and oversight of all staff activities, guaranteeing adherence to established protocols and standards.

    David DiEugenio - Chief Information Officer

    David DiEugenio, the Chief Information Officer at U.S. Marine Corps, architects the technological infrastructure and cybersecurity defenses essential for modern warfare. DiEugenio drives the integration of advanced digital solutions across all operational domains, ensuring robust data management and secure communication networks. This role is pivotal in modernizing the U.S. Marine Corps' technological capabilities, supporting its mission to conduct task forces on land, at sea, and in the air. David DiEugenio's leadership ensures that information systems are resilient, scalable, and capable of supporting complex joint operations. The Chief Information Officer champions innovation in areas such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and network security, directly impacting the force's ability to maintain information superiority and operational advantage. DiEugenio's strategic vision guides the development and implementation of technologies that enhance situational awareness and decision-making across the globe.
    David DiEugenio

    Scott Mercer - Mcwl Command Information Officer & Ac S G6, Technology & Cybersecurity Neller Center Chief Information Officer & Director

    Scott Mercer, the Mcwl Command Information Officer & Ac S G6, Technology & Cybersecurity Neller Center Chief Information Officer & Director at U.S. Marine Corps, spearheads the technological advancement and cybersecurity posture for critical command functions. Mercer directs the implementation of secure information systems and advanced technology solutions, ensuring operational integrity and data protection. This multifaceted role is essential for supporting the U.S. Marine Corps' mission to conduct task forces on land, at sea, and in the air, particularly within specialized command environments. Scott Mercer's expertise ensures that technology investments align with strategic objectives, enhancing command and control capabilities. The Chief Information Officer & Director drives the adoption of cutting-edge cybersecurity measures, safeguarding sensitive information and critical infrastructure against evolving threats. Mercer's leadership fosters a culture of technological excellence and security consciousness across the Neller Center and associated commands.

    Benjamin Venning - Training & Education Command Chief of Staff

    Benjamin Venning, the Training & Education Command Chief of Staff at U.S. Marine Corps, orchestrates the strategic planning and administrative support for all educational and training initiatives. Venning ensures that training programs are aligned with current and future operational demands, preparing Marines for diverse mission sets. This role is vital for maintaining the high standards of proficiency required for the U.S. Marine Corps' task forces operating on land, at sea, and in the air. Benjamin Venning's oversight guarantees the effective delivery of curricula and the efficient allocation of resources within the Training & Education Command. The Chief of Staff drives continuous improvement in training methodologies, incorporating lessons learned and emerging best practices. Venning's focus is on developing a highly skilled and adaptable fighting force, ready to meet any challenge.

    Robert Golden - Chief of Staff, MCRC

    Robert Golden, the Chief of Staff, MCRC at U.S. Marine Corps, directs the administrative and operational functions supporting the Marine Corps Recruiting Command. Golden ensures the efficient execution of recruiting strategies and the effective management of personnel and resources across the MCRC enterprise. This position is fundamental to sustaining the force's strength and readiness, underpinning the U.S. Marine Corps' ability to deploy task forces globally. Robert Golden's leadership optimizes the recruiting process, enhancing the command's capacity to attract and enlist qualified individuals. The Chief of Staff, MCRC drives initiatives to improve operational effectiveness and streamline administrative procedures. Golden's efforts are focused on ensuring the MCRC operates at peak performance, contributing directly to the overall mission success of the U.S. Marine Corps.

    Mark Phifer - Assistance Chief of Staff

    Mark Phifer, the Assistance Chief of Staff at U.S. Marine Corps, provides critical support and strategic guidance to the Chief of Staff, enhancing overall command effectiveness. Phifer assists in the coordination of departmental activities and the implementation of key initiatives across the organization. This role is integral to ensuring the smooth functioning of operations and administrative processes, supporting the U.S. Marine Corps' mission to conduct task forces on land, at sea, and in the air. Mark Phifer's contributions facilitate the efficient management of resources and personnel, bolstering the command's operational tempo. The Assistance Chief of Staff plays a key part in developing and executing strategic plans, ensuring alignment with the broader objectives of the U.S. Marine Corps. Phifer's dedication supports the continuous readiness and effectiveness of the force.

    James Cappabianca - Instructor Pilot. Chief of Staff

    James Cappabianca, the Instructor Pilot. Chief of Staff at U.S. Marine Corps, integrates flight operations expertise with strategic administrative leadership. Cappabianca ensures that flight training programs meet the highest standards of safety and operational effectiveness, while also managing key staff functions. This dual role is critical for maintaining the air combat readiness of the U.S. Marine Corps, supporting its mission to conduct task forces across all domains. James Cappabianca's experience as an instructor pilot informs the strategic direction of flight operations and training protocols. The Chief of Staff role ensures the efficient coordination of resources and personnel within the command structure. Cappabianca's leadership contributes to developing highly skilled aviators prepared for complex missions.

    Caveman Holzworth - Chief of Staff 2d Maw

    Caveman Holzworth, the Chief of Staff 2d Maw at U.S. Marine Corps, directs the operational and administrative functions for the Second Marine Aircraft Wing. Holzworth oversees the coordination of aviation assets and support elements, ensuring the wing's readiness for expeditionary operations. This position is vital for the U.S. Marine Corps' air power projection capabilities, supporting task forces on land, at sea, and in the air. Caveman Holzworth's leadership ensures the efficient deployment and sustainment of aviation resources across diverse operational theaters. The Chief of Staff drives strategic planning and resource management to enhance the wing's combat effectiveness. Holzworth's focus is on optimizing aviation operations and maintaining the highest standards of performance for the 2d MAW.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding U.S. Marine Corps Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads U.S. Marine Corps?
    U.S. Marine Corps is led by Peter Lawless (Chief Financial Officer, Blount Island Command), along with executives such as Clarence Davis (Chief Operating Officer) and Scott Helminski (Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of U.S. Marine Corps’s executive team?
    The executive team of U.S. Marine Corps includes leaders such as Peter Lawless (Chief Financial Officer, Blount Island Command), Clarence Davis (Chief Operating Officer), Scott Helminski (Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does U.S. Marine Corps have?
    U.S. Marine Corps has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in U.S. Marine Corps’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of U.S. Marine Corps includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Blount Island Command, Chief Operating Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief Information Officer, Mcwl Command Information Officer & Ac S G6, Technology & Cybersecurity Neller Center Chief Information Officer & Director.