Translation guide
A high-ranking administrative head of an organization, often in government or international bodies. Japanese uses specific titles depending on the organization type.
The top official of a national government agency, bureau, or department.
Common title for the head of a Japanese government agency or bureau, such as the Director-General of the National Police Agency.
警察庁長官
Director-General of the National Police Agency
長官が記者会見を行った。
The Director-General held a press conference.
Head of a bureau or department within a ministry. Often translated as Director-General in international contexts.
厚生労働省の局長
Director-General of a bureau in the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare
The chief executive of an international body like the WHO or UNESCO.
Used for the Director-General of many international organizations, especially those with a secretariat structure.
WHO事務局長
Director-General of the WHO
事務局長が演説を行った。
The Director-General delivered a speech.
Used for some international organizations, such as UNESCO (though 事務局長 is also common).
A senior executive in charge of a major division or department in a corporation.
General manager or director of a headquarters division. Often used in large Japanese companies.
営業本部長
Director-General of the Sales Division
Supervisory department head, sometimes translated as Director-General in corporate contexts.
統括部長に昇進した。
He was promoted to Director-General.
There is no single Japanese word that always corresponds to 'director-general'. The appropriate term depends on the organization type and context. Using the wrong title can sound unnatural or incorrect.
ユネスコ総長
Director-General of UNESCO