The Premier of the Northwest Territories is the head of the territorial government, leading cabinet and setting government priorities. Under the consensus government system, the Premier is chosen by fellow MLAs rather than leading a political party to electoral victory. R.J. Simpson has served as Premier since 2023. The Premier's office coordinates government priorities, manages federal-territorial relations, and addresses unique northern challenges including climate change impacts, housing shortages, and Indigenous self-government negotiations. The consensus model means premiers must maintain broad legislative support rather than relying on party discipline, creating different political dynamics than partisan jurisdictions.