What is the Difference Between Manager and Administrator?

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The main difference between a manager and an administrator lies in their level of seniority, authority, and their specific roles within an organization. Here are the key differences between the two:

  • Manager:
  • Makes decisions and creates the vision for the organization or a specific department.
  • Develops and implements strategies to promote the company and increase profit.
  • Has a higher level of authority and is responsible for the overall performance of the team or department.
  • May have a more relevant academic background or equivalent work experience.
  • Administrator:
  • Executes a set of tasks as provided by the manager.
  • Supports the manager by handling tasks that don't involve the subject matter.
  • Responsible for setting and developing the main company's policies and objectives in compliance with national and international regulations.
  • May have a more administrative-focused skill set and expertise.

Despite these differences, both manager and administrator share some similarities, such as working to promote the company, being profit-driven, having an entrepreneurial attitude, and requiring managerial skills. In smaller organizations, the roles of managers and administrators may overlap, but in large businesses, a clear hierarchical structure is necessary to ensure smooth operations.

Comparative Table: Manager vs Administrator

Here is a table comparing the differences between a manager and an administrator:

Aspect Manager Administrator
Definition A manager is a high-ranking officer within an organization responsible for the overall attainment of a goal and overseeing the work of employees. An administrator is a high-ranking officer within an organization responsible for the overall management and coordination of the administrative functions of an organization.
Responsibilities Managers are responsible for setting goals, organizing teams, and directing employees to achieve those goals. Administrators are responsible for executing daily tasks, creating or designing, updating, managing, and deleting databases.
Authority Managers typically have more authority in terms of decision-making and overseeing employees' work. Administrators generally have more authority than managers, especially if they are also investors in the company.
Expertise Managers do not need the same level of expertise as administrators, but they should have some knowledge of the organization's operations. Administrators require a high level of knowledge in their specific field, such as database management.
Relationship Managers and administrators often liaise and communicate to identify policies and practices that may benefit the company. Both roles have some similarities, such as having a higher position compared to other employees, working to promote the company and increase profit, requiring a relevant academic background or equivalent work experience, and needing managerial skills.

In summary, while both managers and administrators are key figures in an organization, they have different responsibilities and levels of authority. Managers focus on setting goals and directing employees to achieve them, while administrators are responsible for managing and coordinating administrative functions.