![NCIS Leadership](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20161022001020im_/http://www.ncis.navy.mil/AboutNCIS/Leadership/PublishingImages/leadership-board.jpg)
NCIS is a predominantly civilian agency, with civilian leadership reporting directly to the Secretary of the Navy.
This arrangement -- unique in America's military community -- provides both a close relationship with the uniformed naval services and a valuable objectivity. NCIS provides vital investigative and operational support to the Navy and Marine Corps every day, carrying out its responsibilities under the authority of the Secretary of the Navy.