; (5) identify and respond to emerging threats related to illicit drug use; (6) administer and evaluate grant programs in furtherance of the National Drug Control Strategy; and (7) facilitate broad-scale information sharing and data standardization among Federal, State, and local entities to support the national drug control efforts. (b) Director of national drug control and deputy directors (1) Director (A) In general There shall be at the head of the Office a Director who shall hold the same rank and status as the head of an executive department listed in section 101 of title 5, United States Code. (B) Appointment The Director shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, and shall serve at the pleasure of the President. (2) Deputy director (A) In general There shall be a Deputy Director who shall report directly to the Director, be appointed by the President, and serve at the pleasure of the President. (B) Responsibilities The Deputy Director shall— (i) carry out the responsibilities delegated by the Director; and (ii) be responsible for effectively coordinating with the Coordinators. (c) Responsibilities (1) Policies, goals, objectives, and priorities The Director shall assist the President in directing national drug control efforts, including establishing policies, goals, objectives, and priorities for the National Drug Control Program that are based on evidence-based research. (2) Consultation To formulate the National Drug Control policies, goals, objectives, and priorities, the Director— (A) shall consult with— (i) State and local governments; (ii) National Drug Control Program Agencies; (iii) each committee, working group, council, or other entity established under this chapter, as appropriate; (iv) the public; (v) appropriate congressional committees; and (vi) any other person in the discretion of the Director; and (B) may— (i) establish advisory councils; (ii) acquire data from agencies