Nute Gunray

Nute Gunray was a Neimoidian businessman and politician who served as the Viceroy of the Trade Federation, as well as the Head of the Separatist Council and the last Head of State of the Separatists.

Background
At some point prior to 32 BBY, Gunray allied himself with Darth Sidious.

Naboo Crisis
Gunray led the Trade Federation's Invasion of Naboo in 32 BBY, becoming the temporary leader of Naboo during the brief period in which he had full control over the planet. However, during the Battle of Naboo, Gunray was captured by Padmé Amidala and arrested. However, he escaped punishment after seven trials in the Supreme Court.

Joining the Separatists
In 22 BBY, Gunray travelled to Geonosis, where he pledged the Federation's support to the Confederacy of Independent Systems, becoming a member of the Separatist Council. Gunray joined under the condition that Amidala was killed. This led to the assassination attempts on Amidala and the discovery of the Clone Army on Kamino and the Separatists on Geonosis by Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Amidala, Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker were captured on Geonosis and sentenced to death. Gunray attended the execution in the Petranaki Arena, but the three were rescued by the Clone Army, leading to the Battle of Geonosis.

Death
In 19 BBY, towards the end of the Clone Wars, Gunray became the last Head of State of the CIS after the deaths of Dooku and Grievous. However, the Separatist Council was assassinated by Anakin Skywalker shortly after, on orders of Darth Sidious, who no longer needed the Separatists in his plans.

Appearances

 * Star Wars: The Phantom Menace (First appearance)
 * Star Wars: Attack of the Clones
 * Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith