Translation guide
The top manager responsible for the overall operations and strategic direction of an organization. In Japanese, the exact title depends on the type of organization (company, NPO, etc.) and its internal hierarchy.
The highest-ranking executive in charge of daily operations, often equivalent to CEO or president in Western companies.
The most common title for the top executive in a Japanese corporation, combining the roles of representative director and president. Often translated as 'President & CEO'.
彼は代表取締役社長に就任した。
He became the executive director (president & CEO).
Shorter, more casual term for the company president. Often used in conversation, but in formal contexts the full title is preferred.
社長が会議を招集した。
The executive director called a meeting.
Literal translation of 'Chief Executive Officer' (CEO). Used mainly in global companies or when emphasizing the CEO role distinct from the president.
最高経営責任者として会社の戦略を決定する。
As executive director (CEO), he decides the company's strategy.
The top manager of a non-profit, often called 'executive director' in English.
Standard title for the executive director of an NPO, NGO, or association. Oversees the secretariat and daily operations.
彼女はNPOの事務局長として活躍している。
She is active as the executive director of the NPO.
Often the head of the board of directors in a foundation or incorporated association. May be equivalent to executive director if they also manage operations.
A senior official in charge of a specific bureau or department, sometimes translated as executive director.
Director of a bureau or agency within a ministry. Equivalent to executive director in some contexts.
環境省の局長が記者会見を行った。
The executive director of the Environment Ministry held a press conference.
Used in some public corporations or independent administrative agencies for a senior executive role.
The English 'executive director' does not have a single fixed Japanese equivalent. Always check the specific organization type and hierarchy. Using エグゼクティブディレクター is possible but sounds like a loanword and may not match the actual Japanese title.
社長 (president) is a job title, while 代表取締役 (representative director) is a legal title under the Companies Act. The top executive often holds both, hence 代表取締役社長. In smaller companies, 社長 alone may suffice.
The executive director explained the foundation's management policy.
He was appointed executive director of the National Hospital Organization.