N.J. Stat. § 27:1A-6

(a) The commissioner shall organize the department and establish therein such divisions as he may deem necessary and expedient. He may formulate and adopt rules and regulations and prescribe duties for the efficient conduct of the business, work and general administration of the department, its officers and employees. In addition, the commissioner may delegate to subordinate officers or employees in the department such of his powers as he may deem desirable, to be exercised under his supervision and direction. (b) The commissioner shall designate any officer or employee in the department to perform all of the powers, functions and duties of the commissioner during the absence or disability of the commissioner. Such designation shall be subject to the approval of the Governor, and shall be in writing and filed with the Secretary of State. In the event that the commissioner shall die, resign or be removed from his office or become disqualified to execute the duties of his office or a vacancy shall occur in the office of commissioner for any cause whatever, the person designated as aforesaid shall have and exercise the powers and perform the functions, powers and duties of the commissioner until the successor of the commissioner is appointed and shall qualify. L.1966, c. 301, s. 6.