Executive Assistant vs Chief of Staff in Small Business vs Program Manager

Primary Role:

Executive Assistant: Administrative and organizational support for executives

Chief of Staff in Small Business: Similar to Startup Chief of Staff, but in a smaller business context

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

Reporting Relationship:

Executive Assistant: Reports directly to the executive they support

Chief of Staff in Small Business: Reports to the business owner or CEO

Program Manager: Reports to a senior manager or director

Scope of Responsibilities:

Executive Assistant: Focused on day-to-day tasks and administrative duties

Chief of Staff in Small Business: Broad, tailored to the needs of a small business

Program Manager: Manages program objectives, resources, and timelines

Decision-Making Authority:

Executive Assistant: Limited to administrative decisions

Chief of Staff in Small Business: Significant, especially in strategic and operational decisions

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

Strategic Planning:

Executive Assistant: Limited involvement, support capacity

Chief of Staff in Small Business: Active in shaping and executing business strategy

Program Manager: Participates in strategic planning of program objectives

Team Management:

Executive Assistant: Manages administrative staff

Chief of Staff in Small Business: Manages or coordinates with small business teams

Program Manager: Manages program teams and coordinates with other departments

Meeting Involvement:

Executive Assistant: Scheduling, preparing materials, taking minutes

Chief of Staff in Small Business: Active in business meetings, contributing to decisions

Program Manager: Leads program-related meetings and updates

Project Management:

Executive Assistant: Manages small projects within their role

Chief of Staff in Small Business: Leads key business projects and initiatives

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

Communication:

Executive Assistant: Facilitates internal communication

Chief of Staff in Small Business: Acts as a key communicator for the small business

Program Manager: Communicates program goals and updates to stakeholders

Professional Development:

Executive Assistant: Focused on improving administrative and organizational skills

Chief of Staff in Small Business: Develops skills in managing a small business environment

Program Manager: Develops in program management and strategic coordination