Deputy chief of mission
A deputy chief of mission, is the number-two diplomat assigned to an embassy or other diplomatic mission. He or she is usually considered the second-in-command to the head of mission. DCMs serve as chargé d'affaires when the titular head of mission is outside the host country or when the post is vacant.
DCMs typically serve as a key advisor to the chief of mission as well as a chief of staff, responsible for the day-to-day management of the post. The DCM will oversee the heads of sections at the embassy, such as the DCMs also serve as de facto ombudsmen, responding to employee concerns and quality of life issues. Most career ambassadors have served as a DCM prior to their first assignment as chief of mission.
In circumstances where the ambassador is not a career diplomat the role of the DCM may increase, with a senior diplomat occupying the role.
