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Primary Role:
Project Manager: Leads and manages specific projects
Director of Operations: Oversees day-to-day operational activities within an organization
Program Manager: Oversees specific programs, ensuring they align with organizational goals
Reporting Relationship:
Project Manager: Reports to a project sponsor or senior manager
Director of Operations: Typically reports to the COO or CEO
Program Manager: Reports to a senior manager or director
Scope of Responsibilities:
Project Manager: Oversees project lifecycle from initiation to closure
Director of Operations: Broad operational scope, including managing resources, processes, and budgets
Program Manager: Manages program objectives, resources, and timelines
Decision-Making Authority:
Project Manager: Decision-making within the scope of the project
Director of Operations: Considerable operational decision-making authority
Program Manager: Decision-making within the scope of program management
Strategic Planning:
Project Manager: Involved in planning project strategy and objectives
Director of Operations: Participates in operational strategy and its execution
Program Manager: Participates in strategic planning of program objectives
Team Management:
Project Manager: Manages project teams
Director of Operations: Oversees operational teams and departments
Program Manager: Manages program teams and coordinates with other departments
Meeting Involvement:
Project Manager: Leads project meetings, coordinates team communication
Director of Operations: Leads operational meetings and strategy sessions
Program Manager: Leads program-related meetings and updates
Project Management:
Project Manager: Responsible for complete project management
Director of Operations: Responsible for operational project oversight
Program Manager: Responsible for end-to-end program management
Communication:
Project Manager: Communicates project updates and liaises with stakeholders
Director of Operations: Oversees operational communication within the organization
Program Manager: Communicates program goals and updates to stakeholders
Professional Development:
Project Manager: Focuses on project management skills and methodologies
Director of Operations: Focuses on operational management and process improvement
Program Manager: Develops in program management and strategic coordination