Air Force Under Secretary Jones to step down

By Shelley K. Mesch / February 15, 2023 at 2:52 PM

Air Force Under Secretary Gina Ortiz Jones will step down from her role as the second-highest ranking civilian in the service, the Air Force announced this week.

Jones will leave the job March 6, and the Air Force Assistant Secretary for Financial Management and Comptroller Kristyn Jones (no relation) will manage the duties of the role on an interim basis until President Biden nominates a replacement.

“Throughout her tenure, Under Secretary Jones has been a tireless advocate for the Department of the Air Force and its people,” Secretary Frank Kendall said in a news release. “Her leadership in enabling all airmen, guardians and their families to serve to their full potential and providing the resources they need has enhanced the readiness of the Air and Space Force for years to come.”

The Senate confirmed Gina Ortiz Jones in July 2021. She had previously worked as an intelligence officer for the Air Force, in a civilian leadership role at U.S. Africa Command and as an adviser to the deputy director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, among other jobs.

The Air Force did not give a reason for Jones’ departure.

Kristyn Jones became comptroller in May of last year, and Kendall said she will “do a fantastic job keeping the momentum going.”

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