The Premier of Nova Scotia is the head of the provincial government, leading cabinet and setting government priorities. The Premier is the leader of the party holding the most seats in the House of Assembly. Tim Houston has served as Premier since 2021. The Premier's office has significant influence over all provincial policy areas, including matters affecting municipalities like funding programs, municipal legislation, and intergovernmental relations. Municipal leaders engage with the Premier's office on major issues requiring political attention. Premier-municipal relationships in Nova Scotia's relatively small province can be particularly direct, with municipal leaders often having personal access to provincial decision-makers.