The governor is appointed by the monarch on the advice of the British government.

The role of the governor is to act as the de facto head of state.

The governor serves as commander-in-chief of Gibraltar's military forces and has sole responsibility for defence and security.

Although recent appointments have all been former military personnel, most being former Royal Navy or Royal Marines flag officers, Sir James Dutton resigned from the role in 2015, complaining that it was "more representational and ceremonial than I had expected".

(Dates in italics indicate de facto continuation of office)