Possible Clues:

• Perhaps a mathematical mind will get one to the front on board ship
• Leader out of power that's given prominent place on board
• Leader that's powerless, being bust from the navy
• Nominal leader; carved bust at prow of ship
• Person without real power may be bust
• Nominal leader's bust
• Front man judge listened to right away
• Nominal figure
• Nominal chief of the maths department?
• Thought about Hattie's exterior, with a proudly displayed bust