The Director of the Ninjutsu Academy, known in some adaptations as Oogawa Heizou Madamasa, is the founder and headmaster of the school where the main characters train. As the creator of this institution for young ninja, he is a figure of immense authority and history within the setting, though his age has done little to temper his eccentric and unpredictable nature. Described as a genius ninja in his youth, he possesses formidable martial arts skills that remain sharp despite his advanced years. However, he does not often display his prowess in a conventional, dignified manner; instead, he is known for his mischievous and whimsical behavior, frequently causing confusion and extra work for both the teaching staff and the students. He seems to forget his own age, throwing himself into activities and pranks that are as troublesome as they are impressive.

The Directors motivations are largely tied to the well-being and continuation of his school. He serves as its guardian protector, often facing off against external threats, most notably his long-time rival, Hieta Happousai, who leads the Dokutake Ninja Corps. Rather than resolve conflicts through straightforward means, he tends to frame challenges as games or contests, as seen when he sets up a competition involving ringing a temple bell to settle a dispute with his rival. This approach reinforces his role not just as an administrator, but as the chaotic and adventurous heart of the academy. His relationship with the students is warm and paternal in its own strange way. Despite the trouble he causes them, he is deeply fond of the young ninja trainees, including the main trio of Rantarou, Kirimaru, and Shinbei, and is invested in their development. His connection to the schools community is further highlighted by his family ties; his granddaughter, Shige, is a student at the academy, placing him within the circle of families connected to the ninja arts.

While the Directors character does not undergo a dramatic transformation throughout the story, his role remains consistent as a catalyst for events and a symbol of the schools enduring, if unconventional, spirit. He possesses a very specific set of abilities that go beyond standard ninjutsu. In addition to his high-level combat skills, he is noted for his incredible durability and physical vitality, traits that seem almost superhuman for someone his age. The Director is an integral part of the storys foundation, embodying the series blend of genuine warmth, slapstick comedy, and the message that even the most powerful ninja can still be a source of delightful chaos.