The Premier of British Columbia is the head of the provincial government and leader of the political party holding the most seats in the Legislative Assembly. The Premier chairs Cabinet meetings, sets government priorities, and represents BC in dealings with other provinces and the federal government. Premiers are not directly elected by voters province-wide—they become Premier by leading the party that wins the most seats in a general election or by winning a party leadership contest if the previous Premier resigns. The Premier wields significant power in BC's parliamentary system, directing government policy, appointing Cabinet ministers, and representing the province nationally and internationally.