Synonyms for Chief (same or very similar meaning)
WordNet sense 1 (a person who is in charge):
head, top dog
WordNet sense 2 (a person who exercises control over workers):
boss, foreman, gaffer, honcho
WordNet sense 3 (most important element):
main, primary, principal
WordNet sense 4 (of great significance or value):
of import
From the ODE community, based on WordNet
add/edit