Below is a general list of positions and the kind of work expected:
Employees—Employees are individual contributors who can have many titles such as specialists, technicians, administrative assistants, and so on.
Supervisors—Supervisors are in charge of the quality of work. They often schedule resources so that work planned can be successfully completed. They oversee production and make sure processes are followed.
Leads—A lead is a resource who offers guidance and direction to a small group of team members who have been tasked with achieving a goal or completing a project. The lead is often a more experienced team member who can provide instruction when asked. The job is to essentially lead the way to quality delivery making sure the correct processes are followed.
Managers—Managers are in charge of the information required to make sure the timing of work is always accurate. It is a common misconception that the main responsibility of a manager is to manage work. The most important duty of a manager is to move information in meetings and reports, and by providing status. Managers often use the information they know to create budgets for their department(s) or project(s) that become part of the larger budget as a whole. They oversee supervisors, propose, and manage processes, and work to resolve issues that impact smooth operations.
Directors—Directors do just what it sounds like they provide direction when overseeing their management teams. Directors make strategic recommendations. They own the budgets for their regions or department. Directors evaluate and may even be decision makers regarding key contracts. Directors help create and maintain company culture. They provide direction by making sure Managers and Supervisors are focused properly. They are responsible for raising the alarm and determining what needs to change when management teams are moving in the wrong direction to ensure all teams stay on track.
Vice Presidents—Vice Presidents are second-in-command for the company or for a single function. They sometimes run business segments or units for large companies that serve as an umbrella for several smaller ventures. Vice Presidents must be capable of stepping in if the CEO/President is suddenly unavailable. They usually have the authority to sign contracts. They may also be a signer on other legal documents. They approve and own the strategic plan built and implemented by directors and are responsible for making sure it stays in sync and on track.