Project Manager vs Human Resources Director vs Financial Director/CFO

Primary Role:

Project Manager: Leads and manages specific projects

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

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

Reporting Relationship:

Project Manager: Reports to a project sponsor or senior manager

Human Resources Director: Reports to CEO or COO

Financial Director/CFO: Reports to CEO or executive board

Scope of Responsibilities:

Project Manager: Oversees project lifecycle from initiation to closure

Human Resources Director: Oversees all HR functions and strategies

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

Decision-Making Authority:

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

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

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

Strategic Planning:

Project Manager: Involved in planning project strategy and objectives

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

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

Team Management:

Project Manager: Manages project teams

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

Financial Director/CFO: Oversees the financial team or department

Meeting Involvement:

Project Manager: Leads project meetings, coordinates team communication

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

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

Project Management:

Project Manager: Responsible for complete project management

Human Resources Director: Manages HR-related projects

Financial Director/CFO: Involved in financial projects and initiatives

Communication:

Project Manager: Communicates project updates and liaises with stakeholders

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

Financial Director/CFO: Communicates financial information to stakeholders

Professional Development:

Project Manager: Focuses on project management skills and methodologies

Human Resources Director: Develops in HR leadership and strategic management

Financial Director/CFO: Develops financial management and strategic skills