In a move that signals Acting Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) Director Russell Vought’s tenure may soon be ending, the Bureau recently announced that Chief Legal Officer Mark Paoletta has been appointed Deputy Director.
Under the Federal Vacancies Reform Act, Vought cannot continue serving as acting Director beyond August 1. However, the law allows a senior agency official, such as a Deputy Director, to serve in an acting capacity until a permanent Director is confirmed by the Senate. As a result, Paoletta is widely expected to assume the role of acting Director beginning in August.
Paoletta has played a central role in the CFPB’s recent restructuring efforts, including proposals for significant staff reductions and the implementation of new agency priorities. He will continue serving as the Bureau’s Chief Legal Officer while taking on his new responsibilities as Deputy Director. In addition to his CFPB duties, Paoletta currently serves as General Counsel for the Office of Management and Budget. It remains unclear whether he will continue in that role after assuming leadership of the CFPB.
The leadership change also includes a new position for Geoffrey Gradler, who has served as CFPB Deputy Director since November 2025. Gradler has been named the Bureau’s Chief of Staff.
