Human Resources Director vs Financial Director/CFO vs Program Manager

Primary Role:

Human Resources Director: Manages HR policies, employee relations, and organizational development

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

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

Reporting Relationship:

Human Resources Director: Reports to CEO or COO

Financial Director/CFO: Reports to CEO or executive board

Program Manager: Reports to a senior manager or director

Scope of Responsibilities:

Human Resources Director: Oversees all HR functions and strategies

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

Program Manager: Manages program objectives, resources, and timelines

Decision-Making Authority:

Human Resources Director: Significant in HR-related decisions and policies

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

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

Strategic Planning:

Human Resources Director: Participates in strategic planning related to workforce development

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

Program Manager: Participates in strategic planning of program objectives

Team Management:

Human Resources Director: Leads the HR team and manages HR functions

Financial Director/CFO: Oversees the financial team or department

Program Manager: Manages program teams and coordinates with other departments

Meeting Involvement:

Human Resources Director: Attends and contributes to leadership and HR meetings

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

Program Manager: Leads program-related meetings and updates

Project Management:

Human Resources Director: Manages HR-related projects

Financial Director/CFO: Involved in financial projects and initiatives

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

Communication:

Human Resources Director: Communicates HR policies and strategies across the organization

Financial Director/CFO: Communicates financial information to stakeholders

Program Manager: Communicates program goals and updates to stakeholders

Professional Development:

Human Resources Director: Develops in HR leadership and strategic management

Financial Director/CFO: Develops financial management and strategic skills

Program Manager: Develops in program management and strategic coordination