Communications Director vs Financial Director/CFO vs Program Manager

Primary Role:

Communications Director: Oversees internal and external communication strategies

Financial Director/CFO: Manages financial health, including strategies and operations

Program Manager: Oversees specific programs, ensuring they align with organizational goals

Reporting Relationship:

Communications Director: Reports to CEO or executive leadership

Financial Director/CFO: Reports to CEO or executive board

Program Manager: Reports to a senior manager or director

Scope of Responsibilities:

Communications Director: Manages all aspects of communication, including media relations and corporate messaging

Financial Director/CFO: Responsible for financial planning, analysis, and reporting

Program Manager: Manages program objectives, resources, and timelines

Decision-Making Authority:

Communications Director: Significant in communication-related decisions

Financial Director/CFO: Key decision-maker in financial matters

Program Manager: Decision-making within the scope of program management

Strategic Planning:

Communications Director: Involved in planning and executing communication strategies

Financial Director/CFO: Integral to financial aspect of strategic planning

Program Manager: Participates in strategic planning of program objectives

Team Management:

Communications Director: Leads the communications team

Financial Director/CFO: Oversees the financial team or department

Program Manager: Manages program teams and coordinates with other departments

Meeting Involvement:

Communications Director: Leads communication strategy meetings

Financial Director/CFO: Attends executive meetings, particularly around financial planning

Program Manager: Leads program-related meetings and updates

Project Management:

Communications Director: Manages communication-related projects

Financial Director/CFO: Involved in financial projects and initiatives

Program Manager: Responsible for end-to-end program management

Communication:

Communications Director: Oversees all communication activities and strategies

Financial Director/CFO: Communicates financial information to stakeholders

Program Manager: Communicates program goals and updates to stakeholders

Professional Development:

Communications Director: Grows in communication strategy and leadership

Financial Director/CFO: Develops financial management and strategic skills

Program Manager: Develops in program management and strategic coordination