na-adjective, noun
prominent and important; eminent; distinguished
Formal, somewhat literary term describing a person or position of high standing and influence. Often used in political, academic, or organizational contexts.
彼は政界の顕要な人物として知られている。
He is known as a prominent figure in the political world.
顕要の地位にある者には大きな責任が伴う。
Those in eminent positions bear great responsibility.
著名 means 'well-known, famous' and is more common in everyday contexts. 顕要 emphasizes high status and importance, not just fame.
要職 is a noun meaning 'important post/position'. 顕要 can describe the person or the position itself, and carries a nuance of dignity.
Compound of 顕 (manifest, conspicuous) and 要 (important, essential). The exact historical derivation is uncertain; the spelling is conventionally associated with the meaning of high prominence and importance.