The chief stands at the head of his clan and represents not only his clansmen but also the clan's founder. Maclean Chiefs trace their hereditary line back to first recognized Chief, Gilleain na Tuaighe, in 1174. The rural nature of Scotland's Highlands, particularly the Western Isles, allowed the Maclean Chiefs to operate and govern with relative autonomy for centuries.

Historically the most important responsibilities of Maclean Chiefs were to rule, judge and lead the clan in battle, however the Maclean Chiefs were also influential characters in the politics of the Western Highlands of Scotland who wielded great authority. After the ‘45 Uprising the Heritable Jurisdictions Act of 1746 brought an end to the rights and jurisdiction that made Scotland's clans a functioning society. Today the clan chiefs are regarded as the Sovereign’s hereditary advisers. The Maclean Chiefs have continued to play important roles in government while leading a clan that has grown into a world-wide family firmly rooted in tradition.

At present Sir Lachlan Maclean is the Maclean Chief.