Department Head
A department head is the senior official responsible for leading a government department. In federal executive departments, the head is usually a secretary, while the Department of Justice is headed by the Attorney General. The department head directs operations within the authority established by law and the President's lawful supervision.
A department head is the senior official responsible for leading a government department. In federal executive departments, the head is usually a secretary, while the Department of Justice is headed by the Attorney General. The department head directs operations within the authority established by law and the President’s lawful supervision.
Example: The Secretary of State leads the Department of State and oversees its diplomatic work and organizational bureaus.
Common misconception: A department head can ignore statutory limits because they lead the department. Department heads must act within the Constitution, laws, and applicable oversight requirements.
Sources: https://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/cabinet/; https://www.usa.gov/agency-index