(a)      (1)      With the advice and consent of the Senate, the Governor shall appoint the Secretary.

            (2)      The Secretary is the head of the Department.

      (b)      Before taking office, the Secretary shall take the oath required by Article I, § 9 of the Maryland Constitution.

      (c)      (1)      The Secretary serves at the pleasure of the Governor and is directly responsible to the Governor.

            (2)      The Secretary shall counsel and advise the Governor on all matters assigned to the Department and is responsible for carrying out the Governor's policies on those matters.

      (d)      The Secretary is entitled to the compensation provided in the State budget.