Synonyms of pull the strings in English:

manage, direct, control, operate, regulate, conduct, handle, run, orchestrate, organize, supervise, superintend, oversee, preside over, boss, be the boss of, govern, rule, administer, lead, head, guide, steer, pilot

exercise control over, be in control of, be in charge of, be in command of, take care of, look after, be responsible for, be at the helm of, hold sway over

head up, call the shots, call the tune, run the show, be in the driving seat, be in the saddle