The phrase "several deputies" means multiple people who have been chosen or appointed to assist or represent others in a specific role or responsibility. Full definition
We have benefitted from the contributions of several deputy and managing editors, the authors of all the lead articles, and AAAS staff and interns who prepared the bulk of the items published. (aaas.org)
(Several deputies who worked for him followed him as well, according to multiple sources.) (recode.net)