administrative vice-minister; permanent secretary
The highest-ranking career civil servant in a Japanese ministry, serving directly under the minister. Equivalent to a permanent undersecretary or vice-minister in other governments.
After many years of service, he was promoted to administrative vice-minister.
Coordination among ministries takes place at the administrative vice-ministers' meeting.
He was appointed administrative vice-minister of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
He resigned as administrative vice-minister to take responsibility for the scandal.
The administrative vice-minister of the Ministry of Finance held a press conference.