R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-45-8: Executive director — Employees.

The historical preservation and heritage commission shall appoint an executive director, who shall not be subject to the provisions of chapter 4 of title 36; and shall set the executive director’s compensation and terms of employment. The executive director, through a vote of the commission, may be delegated to act as authorized agent for the approval of all fiscal and personnel documents requiring an authorized signature. The commission shall also cause to be employed such staff, and technical and professional consultants, as may be required to carry out the powers and duties set forth in this chapter.