Cal. HSC § 54927

(a) (1) The Governor may appoint a chief deputy director who shall hold office at the pleasure of the Governor. (2) A chief deputy appointed pursuant to this section shall be exempt from civil service pursuant to Section 4 of Article VII of the California Constitution. (b) (1) Upon the recommendation of the executive director, the Governor shall appoint a general counsel. (2) A general counsel appointed pursuant to this section shall hold office at the pleasure of the Governor and shall receive a salary as shall be fixed by the Governor. (3) A general counsel appointed pursuant to this section shall be exempt from civil service pursuant to subdivision (f) of Section 4 of Article VII of the California Constitution.