The bureau provides administrative leadership and policy planning for the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations (OPNAV) and the U.S. Navy at large.

BUPERS is led by the Chief of Naval Personnel (CHNAVPERS), who serves in an additional duty capacity as the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Personnel, Manpower, and Training (DCNO N1).

Naval personnel matters were originally handled by the Secretary of War until the establishment of the Navy Department on April 30, 1798.

In 1991, the name changed back to the Bureau of Naval Personnel or "BUPERS" for short.

DEP CHNAVPERS relocated to Millington as well and assumed primary duties as COMNAVPERSCOM.