R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-20-3
Whenever certain powers or duties are conferred or imposed by existing law upon an official or employee of the state having a definite title, those powers and duties shall be exercised and performed by the director or other head of a department by the independent agency, his or her or its assistants, to which the department or agency those powers and duties are by this title transferred. The head of any department may, with the approval of the governor, designate the official titles or designations of subordinate officers or employees to be used by them in the official business of the state whenever the necessity thereof may require, and they shall be so entitled and described in all official functions, duties, or business.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-20-3