Sure, but SecState is generally regarded as the most important secretary. The idea is that the secretary of state will be meeting foreign ministers, prime ministers and presidents of other countries (including powerful adversaries), will be able to solve conflicts, and in general, has massive personal connections and essentially has a long experience in diplomacy. It is not something that can be instantly built (unless you are serving under Trump where rules do not matter).
I just do not see a relative noob in foreign policy choosing a relative noob in foreign policy as secretary of state. Together with the secretary of defense, they are positions that require proven professionals, not just popular orators.