There are various levels of management in an organization. The top-level management is often referred to as the “boss” of an organization. This level sets the overall direction of the organization, sets the general objectives, and oversees company policies. Top-level managers must have strong delegation skills in order to manage their respective departments. The responsibility and power of each level varies with the organization’s needs and size. This article will explore the differences between management levels.
According to Antony (1965), there are three levels of management: middle, operational, and top. The responsibilities of each level increase exponentially as one advances up the hierarchy. The role of each manager is very different. In Japan, for example, the top-level management is usually a different level than the shop floor management. This reflects cultural differences. In general, managers are concerned with overall direction, executing policies, and getting work done.
At the senior level of an organization, executives set policy, implement policies, and supervise employees. Senior managers are ultimately responsible for the survival of the company and are responsible for achieving those goals. In between, there is a middle management level, which consists of executives who work between the top-level and the supervisory level. These managers coordinate all activities, ensure the availability of resources, and carry out policies that top management has framed. Middle management includes departmental heads and secretaries.
Middle management is the link between the top level and the operative level of management. Middle managers work closely with the top-level management to provide feedback on employee performance. In addition to providing feedback, they are responsible for preparing and implementing departmental plans. In addition to being accountable to the top management, middle managers also make provisions for training and seminars. However, there are different levels of management in larger organizations. The senior management is responsible for overall strategy, while the middle-level managers are responsible for the execution of specific tasks.
As previously mentioned, management levels differ depending on the author. Some experts classify management levels into five, while others present them as three or four. The top-level level of management consists of the Chief Executive, Board of Directors, and Chairman of the Board. The top level of management is a supreme policy-making body. Its members typically hold the titles of CEO, Chairman of the Board, and Managing Director. Regardless of the level, the top management is the most important person in any organisation.
Middle-level management works to implement and direct the goals of the top-level management. The middle-level level also trains and develops the lower-level management and coordinates the functions of all other departments. Lower-level management is composed of supervisors, foremen, and gang bosses. It is more concerned with the control and direction of the management rather than the operational level. A supervisor is a key member of the management hierarchy.
