preside over something phrasal verb ( see also ↑ preside )
1 . to be in a position of authority at a time when important things are happening:
The government seemed to be presiding over large-scale unemployment.
2 . to be the head of a company or organization:
Finch presided over the company for 30 years.
3 . to be in charge of a meeting or activity:
The chairman will preside over an audience of architects and developers.