Director Anderson holds the position of highest authority as the Director of the International Science Organization, often referred to as the ISO, and is based at its headquarters in Amerispo. Despite holding a rank clearly above that of Dr. Kozaburo Nambu, Anderson consistently defers to Nambu’s judgment in critical operational decisions. While he leads high-stakes meetings with international representatives to coordinate responses to global threats such as the terrorist group Galactor, he is initially unaware of the covert existence of the Science Ninja Team, which was formed independently by Dr. Nambu. Over time, he learns their civilian identities and comes to respect their abilities, though he cannot issue direct orders to them, as that authority remains solely with Nambu.

Anderson possesses significant scientific expertise, particularly in fields such as nuclear physics and neutron dynamics, allowing him to understand complex concepts that underpin the organization's projects. One such initiative he oversees is the Mantle Plan, a project designed to stabilize the Earth's mantle. Despite his administrative role, he is known to personally handle critical operations, famously transporting a sensitive ultracomputer core aboard his specially equipped private jet, which features an ejector seat with a built-in radio for Morse code transmission, a tactical skill he employs during crises. He is also known to enjoy cigars during his downtime.

In terms of personality, Anderson is portrayed as a stern and efficient authority figure who is deeply curious about the welfare of the Science Ninja Team, though his interactions with them remain at an arm's length. He is one of the few people besides Dr. Nambu who can directly contact the team and the Red Impulse Squadron, but his collaboration with them is often contingent on Nambu’s knowledge and approval. Throughout the original series and its sequel, Gatchaman II, he remains a supportive presence, requesting the team's assistance during crises and communicating with them when Nambu is unavailable. An episode example highlights his determination to protect the ultracomputer's core from Galactor, even as he is taken hostage, and his subsequent appreciation for the team's rescue efforts, laughing with them after their successful escape.

The character's story arc takes a significant turn in Gatchaman II, when Anderson sustains critical injuries during a Galactor attack on the 1st Naval Command while he was supervising the development of specialized radar technology for the Science Ninja Team. This attack also leads to the introduction of his grandson, Sam. Anderson ultimately succumbs to these injuries off-screen between the events of Gatchaman II and Gatchaman Fighter, and his death results in Dr. Nambu becoming the new Director of the International Science Organization. In the OVA series, he retains his role as ISO Director, though his presence is more peripheral, attending high-level meetings and participating in strategic discussions.