What's the word?

The chief officer of an organization (as a corporation or institution) usually entrusted with the direction and administration of its policies

http://www.merriam-webster.com

The leading figure in a small group of men of whom -- and of whom only -- it is positively known that immense numbers of their countrymen did not want any of them for President.







If that's an honor surely 'tis a greater
To have been a simple and undamned spectator. 
Behold in me a man of mark and note 
Whom no elector e'er denied a vote! --
An undiscredited, unhooted gent 
Who might, for all we know, be President By acclimation. 
Cheer, ye varlets, cheer -- 
I'm passing with a wide and open ear! 

Jonathan Fomry 

http://www.alcyone.com/max/lit/devils/