What does a senior manager do?

Setting goals and strategies is crucial but it is as crucial to set the proper KPIs to measure the success. It is always said that "you get what you measure" so it is really important that the KPIs are aligned with the goals and award exactly expected result. As well, it is important to define where the majority time is spent and what activities have the biggest impact (Pareto). Then after constantly asking "is this what I am doing is getting me closer to expected result and impact". And what is often forgotten, part of strategy is also what the organisation does NOT do.

My comment is not on just a senior manager (SM) but of an effective& efficient senior manager.This SM is one who clearly understands the organisation's Vision and guides the whole team in crafting vision alligned missions ,objectives ,strategies,implementation plans and controls .SM should also incoporate in thier management approach care to the human resources element by implementing robust effective staff development programs, promote intergrity & transparency and efficient communication systems that considers the welfare of employees as they target to build great teamwork, motivated staff and create a loyal efficient, effective and productive staff that deliver organisational goals.

Communication is a cornerstone of any management style, enabling managers to interact effectively with both teams and customers is key. I believe that building trust within the team is essential to ensuring strong communication and collaboration. My approach has consistently led to unlocking peoples potential and operational efficiency.

Takes credit for the idea if it succeeds, blames subordinates when it doesn't. Adds unnecessary bureaucratic obstacles to an otherwise well functioning team.

A Senior Manager plays a crucial role in setting goals and strategies for their team. They're responsible for aligning their team's efforts with the organisation's objectives. For example, a Senior Sales Manager may set a goal to increase revenue by 15% in the next fiscal year. They'll then develop a sales strategy that includes market analysis, target customer segments, and sales tactics to achieve this goal. The ability to define clear objectives and formulate effective strategies is paramount for Senior Managers in driving their team's success and contributing to the overall organisation's growth.

A senior manager handles the money and resources for a project or the entire organization. They ensure the budget is used wisely and allocate resources efficiently to meet goals.

Overseeing resources and budgets is a critical aspect of my role as a senior manager. I ensure the optimal allocation and utilization of human, financial, physical, and technological resources. This involves planning and approving budgets, forecasting expenses, controlling costs, and assessing return on investment. Additionally, I prioritize compliance with organizational policies, standards, and industry regulations, while proactively mitigating risks. This comprehensive approach to resource and budget management supports the organization's efficiency and effectiveness, contributing significantly to achieving our strategic goals.

It's YOUR duty as a manager to keep the team's spirits high, manage expectations, and ensure everyone functions as parts of the same machine. One of the biggest challenges, especially when your team starts to grow significantly (but not enough to delegate tasks, for instance), will be precisely this: keeping in mind that your team members have their own lives, goals, and ideas. Ensure smooth team operations by listening to everyone, making it clear that each person has contributed significantly to your company's success, or they won't take any accountability during tough times.

A senior manager guides and inspires their team to achieve goals. They lead by example, encourage collaboration, and keep the team motivated to do their best work

A senior manager creates and nurtures connections with people inside and outside the organization. They build relationships and networks to foster collaboration, gain support, and enhance the overall success of the team or company.

A senior manager encourages and leads the process of making improvements and coming up with new ideas within the team or organization. They drive change by promoting innovation and ensuring the team stays adaptable to new approaches or technologies.

Based in my own experience: while execs who are 'born and raised' in the field can often handle the everyday pressure with ease, especially those from large companies, the story is different if you're at the helm of a bootstrapped, team-centric company since the beginning. Seek out a mentor who can guide you through the process of driving your company to success while also carving out your reputation as a TRUE leader.