The role of the governor is to act as the de facto head of state and commander-in-chief of Saint Helena.

The governor's responsibilities include internal security, external affairs, the administration of justice, finance, shipping and employment, as well as disciplinary action in respect of any public officer.

The governor appoints the Chief Minister of Saint Helena and four other members of the Executive Council; the officeholder, with some exceptions, is bound to seek and act in accordance with their advice.

The governor is based on Saint Helena and appointed by the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

The governor also appoints three members to Saint Helena's Executive Council (the balance being popularly elected) The governor's flag in Saint Helena is the Union Flag defaced with the territory's coat of arms.