Project Manager vs Communications Director vs Financial Director/CFO

Primary Role:

Project Manager: Leads and manages specific projects

Communications Director: Oversees internal and external communication strategies

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

Reporting Relationship:

Project Manager: Reports to a project sponsor or senior manager

Communications Director: Reports to CEO or executive leadership

Financial Director/CFO: Reports to CEO or executive board

Scope of Responsibilities:

Project Manager: Oversees project lifecycle from initiation to closure

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

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

Decision-Making Authority:

Project Manager: Decision-making within the scope of the project

Communications Director: Significant in communication-related decisions

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

Strategic Planning:

Project Manager: Involved in planning project strategy and objectives

Communications Director: Involved in planning and executing communication strategies

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

Team Management:

Project Manager: Manages project teams

Communications Director: Leads the communications team

Financial Director/CFO: Oversees the financial team or department

Meeting Involvement:

Project Manager: Leads project meetings, coordinates team communication

Communications Director: Leads communication strategy meetings

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

Project Management:

Project Manager: Responsible for complete project management

Communications Director: Manages communication-related projects

Financial Director/CFO: Involved in financial projects and initiatives

Communication:

Project Manager: Communicates project updates and liaises with stakeholders

Communications Director: Oversees all communication activities and strategies

Financial Director/CFO: Communicates financial information to stakeholders

Professional Development:

Project Manager: Focuses on project management skills and methodologies

Communications Director: Grows in communication strategy and leadership

Financial Director/CFO: Develops financial management and strategic skills