Quote Originally Posted by pearlescence View Post
It does mean pompous idiot, but a pompous idiot who is in charge. (my spelling may be suspect)
If they haven't replied, even after this thread......
My OED says:

Panjandrum-a person who has, or claims to have a great deal of authority or influence.

Origin from grand panjandrum an invented phrase in a nonsence verse by Samuel Foote 1755.