The head of government in the Northwest Territories has been referred to as Premier since February of 1994 as a result of an amendment to the Legislative Assembly and Executive Council Act. Before 1980, the head of government was appointed by the Government of Canada and was referred to as the Commissioner of the Northwest Territories.

The role of the Premier includes chairing Cabinet meetings, assigning portfolios to Ministers and disciplining Ministers. The Premier also develops consensus with other Ministers and serves as their spokesperson on matters, which do not fall within individual portfolios.