Prime Minister

The Prime Minister, or Premier, was the head of government in the Galactic Empire responsible for maintaining the day-to-day operations of the Empire and the bureaucracy. The Prime Minister served as the chairman of the Imperial Cabinet from the Empire's foundation in 19 BBY until its fragmentation in 4 ABY. There was no completely recognized head of government throughout the Post-Endor Imperial power struggle, as the Interim Ruling Council served as the all-encompassing ruling body over the remains of the Empire.

The Grand Vizier was the highest rank in the Empire besides the Galactic Emperor and the Supreme Commander of Imperial Forces in pre-Endor Imperial society. He oversaw the myriad departments, bureaus and offices and acted as personal assistant to the Emperor. Essentially, the Grand Vizier performed almost all the day-to-day duties which the Emperor couldn't perform due to the hunt for the remaining and the Rebellion. He acted as an intermediary for the Emperor; few spoke to His Majesty without first going through the vizier. One of his more loathsome functions was to act as official food taster for the Emperor. As Head of Government, the Grand Vizier stood at the top of the Imperial Ruling Council, acting as its top official.

The position of Grand Vizier was formed after the establishment of the Empire, and may have been a replacement for two preexisting offices, those of Vice Chair and Senior Administrative Aide. The first individual to serve in the office was Sate Pestage.

Following the rise of Vastir Tokrev in 9 ABY and the reunification of the Empire, the office of Grand Vizier was restored to its normal duties.