The Head of the Jedi Council traditionally has been a role that is loosely defined and held by the most senior Jedi present in the council chamber for any given meeting. They are responsible for calling the meeting to order, presenting the agenda, and maintaining progress on that agenda. The position carried some respect, but was not given any special authority or duties.

In the present version of the Council, the Head acts as the executive leader and head of government. Responsible for maintaining a policy direction on dozens of issues, the Head of the Council is involved with the coordination of government towards whatever policy goals are set by the Council as a whole while being the public face for the entire Galactic Republic. In most respects, the position is the same as the old position of Chancellor? of the Republic Senate?. The present Head of the Jedi Council is Zeltar Hale.