machinations - Crafty schemes or plots, especially intended to achieve something deceitful or underhanded; secret or complicated plans, often with a negative or manipulative goal.
The villain's machinations were finally exposed, revealing his plan to transfer other people's money into his own account.
mogul - An important or powerful person, especially in the motion picture or media industry
With her universal name recognition, massive personal fortune, and successful television shows and movies, Oprah Winfrey is considered one of the biggest moguls on Earth.