Speculation had centered on whether Ruggerio, a North Providence Democrat, would choose Senator Jake Bissaillon, a Providence Democrat who had previously served as his chief of staff, to fill the Senate’s No. 3 leadership position.

But Ruggerio selected Tikoian, who nominated Ruggerio for Senate president when the Senate Democratic caucus voted 23-9 for Ruggerio over Pearson for the Senate’s top leadership position on Nov. 7.

“Senator Tikoian has earned the respect of every member of this chamber,” Ruggerio said in a statement. “David is a dedicated public servant of the highest integrity and a true statesman. He comports himself in a professional, forthright, genuine and courteous manner in all his interactions. I am pleased to welcome him into this important role in our leadership team.”

Tikoian, 56, is rising quickly in the ranks and as whip he will be responsible for lining up votes for key pieces of legislation favored by the Senate’s Democratic leadership.

Tikoian was first elected in November 2022 to represent Senate District 22, replacing Senator Stephen R. Archambault, a Smithfield Democrat.

He is a former Smithfield Town Council member who now works as deputy general manager of the Providence Water Supply Board. He was a State Police officer for 23 years, rising to the rank of major and chief administrative officer, and he served as the North Providence police chief from 2017 to 2020.

Tikoian is a 1986 graduate of Smithfield High School, a 1988 graduate of the Community College of Rhode Island, and a 1990 graduate of Bryant University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in business administration.

“I am grateful for this opportunity, and I look forward to working alongside President Ruggerio, Majority Leader Lawson, and all of my Senate colleagues to make our state an even greater place to live, work, raise a family, operate a business, and enjoy the environment,” Tikoian said in a statement. “The members of our caucus bring varied ideas and insights to address the challenges facing our state. My goal as part of this leadership team is to help my colleagues achieve their priorities to improve our state, on behalf of the constituents we serve.”

Ruggerio plans to name the chairs of Senate committees on Tuesday as the session begins, Senate spokesman Greg Pare said. Ruggerio is expected to replace committee chairs who backed Pearson in the leadership battle.

Ruggerio has already named Senator Victoria Gu, a Westerly Democrat, to chair the newly formed Senate Committee on Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies.

Edward Fitzpatrick can be reached at edward.fitzpatrick@globe.com. Follow him @FitzProv.