Roles and responsibilities of the Head of Department
The roles and responsibilities of a Head of Department are many and varied. On the one hand, they must manage the department's staff and resources and define its objectives, priorities and strategies. On the other, he or she is responsible for organising, planning and improving processes. The main responsibilities of a department manager are as follows:
Defining the department's objectives and strategies and ensuring that they are implemented;
Managing staff and ensuring their well-being and development;
Ensure compliance with procedures, policies and quality standards;
Train and inform members of the department;
Monitor projects and ensure they are properly implemented;
Ensure communication with other departments and partners;
Develop and implement training plans and skills development programmes;
Evaluate staff performance and output;
Take decisions in the event of disputes or conflicts;
Drawing up and managing the department's budget and ensuring that it is properly implemented;
Manage relations with suppliers and vendors;
Develop and implement marketing and communication plans;
Develop and implement quality plans to improve processes and results.
In addition to these responsibilities, a department manager must also ensure that the department operates effectively and efficiently, complies with quality and safety standards and ensures good communication and collaboration between members of the department. He or she must also evaluate staff performance and draw up improvement and training plans. The success of a head of department or departmental manager depends on his or her ability to adapt to new situations.
Salary and career development of Heads of Department
Salaries for heads of department in France are generally very attractive. Qualifications, experience and level of responsibility are all important factors influencing salary. Here is a list of changes in the gross annual salary of a head of department depending on the experience acquired:
0 to 2 years: around €32,000
2 to 5 years: around €40,000
5 to 10 years: approximately €51,000
10 to 15 years: approximately €63,000
More than 15 years: approximately €80,000
Some heads of department choose to continue their careers by moving into other professions. The most sought-after positions are
Human resources manager
Information technology manager
Operations manager
Marketing manager
Finance manager