Who manages the PPBS, according to the key players identified?

The Deputy Secretary of Defense (DEPSECDEF) plays a pivotal role in the Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE) system, which encompasses the entire process of resource allocation within the Department of Defense (DoD). As the second-highest-ranking official in the DoD, the DEPSECDEF serves as a key decision-maker and coordinator, overseeing the integration of planning and budgeting activities to ensure they align with broader defense strategies and objectives.

In this capacity, the DEPSECDEF is responsible for directing the PPBS processes, ensuring that the defense budget reflects the strategic priorities set forth by the Secretary of Defense. This position requires close collaboration with various other officials and departments within the DoD, but ultimately, it is the DEPSECDEF who manages the overall PPBS framework and addresses issues related to resource allocation and program effectiveness. The role is crucial for maintaining coherence between policy goals and financial planning, making the Deputy Secretary a vital player in managing the PPBS.