The most senior executive role within the Trade Federation conglomerate was held by the Viceroy of the Trade Federation. Nute Gunray's ascent to this position was orchestrated by the Sith Lord Darth Sidious by 33 BBY, at the Eriadu Conference. This manipulation enabled the megacorporation to invade the planet Naboo the following year. Gunray remained the Viceroy throughout the invasion and the subsequent Clone Wars, even after multiple trials before the Supreme Court. In 19 BBY, on Mustafar, Sidious' new apprentice, Darth Vader, killed the Viceroy.
Nute Gunray, in Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace released in 1999, was the first appearance of the Viceroy of the Trade Federation title. This film served as the initial installment of the Star Wars prequel trilogy.