noun
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.
彼は長年の勤務の後、事務次官に昇進した。
After many years of service, he was promoted to administrative vice-minister.
事
Coordination among ministries takes place at the administrative vice-ministers' meeting.