Powerful people announcing the score of the Roman Empire? (5)

I believe the answer is:

execs

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'powerful people' is the definition.
(short for executives)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Another definition for execs that I've seen is " Suits".)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.