Executive Assistant vs Communications Director vs Program Manager

Primary Role:

Executive Assistant: Administrative and organizational support for executives

Communications Director: Oversees internal and external communication strategies

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

Reporting Relationship:

Executive Assistant: Reports directly to the executive they support

Communications Director: Reports to CEO or executive leadership

Program Manager: Reports to a senior manager or director

Scope of Responsibilities:

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

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

Program Manager: Manages program objectives, resources, and timelines

Decision-Making Authority:

Executive Assistant: Limited to administrative decisions

Communications Director: Significant in communication-related decisions

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

Strategic Planning:

Executive Assistant: Limited involvement, support capacity

Communications Director: Involved in planning and executing communication strategies

Program Manager: Participates in strategic planning of program objectives

Team Management:

Executive Assistant: Manages administrative staff

Communications Director: Leads the communications team

Program Manager: Manages program teams and coordinates with other departments

Meeting Involvement:

Executive Assistant: Scheduling, preparing materials, taking minutes

Communications Director: Leads communication strategy meetings

Program Manager: Leads program-related meetings and updates

Project Management:

Executive Assistant: Manages small projects within their role

Communications Director: Manages communication-related projects

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

Communication:

Executive Assistant: Facilitates internal communication

Communications Director: Oversees all communication activities and strategies

Program Manager: Communicates program goals and updates to stakeholders

Professional Development:

Executive Assistant: Focused on improving administrative and organizational skills

Communications Director: Grows in communication strategy and leadership

Program Manager: Develops in program management and strategic coordination