Skip to content. | Skip to navigation

Personal tools

Navigation

Managing Director

Managing directors organise and take responsibility for the effective operation of an organisation.

 

Tasks & duties

Managing directors may do some or all of the following:

  • provide the overall direction and management of an organisation
  • ensure a strategic plan and business plan are set in place and constantly monitored
  • ensure that realistic goals are set for an organisation and that the goals are met
  • ensure the organisation complies with company law and other relevant legislation
  • monitor financial performance and ensure that the organisation remains profitable
  • manage risks to the organisation
  • ensure the organisations policies and procedures are followed
  • consult with management staff on issues
  • provide leadership and motivation for employees or members
  • act as a bridge between the organisation, its shareholders and the outside world
  • represent the organisation at conferences and official occasions

 

 

Skills & knowledge

Managing directors need to have:

  • a broad understanding of all areas of management including knowledge of finance, marketing and communication, strategic planning, human resources and information technology
  • knowledge of company law and other legislation relevant to their area of business
  • strong leadership and motivational skills
  • the ability to multi-task and delegate
  • good planning, organisational and time management skills
  • problem-solving ability
  • decision-making skills
  • strong written and oral communication skills
  • the ability to analyse and evaluate information

 

 

Entry requirements

To become a managing director you need to have a relevant tertiary qualification such as a Master of Business Administration or a qualification relevant to the organisation's area of business.

 

Secondary education

A tertiary entrance qualification is required to enter further training.

 

 

Tertiary education

It is common for managing directors to have a tertiary qualification in business, commerce or law.

 

 

Training on the job

Managing directors may attend ongoing management training, courses and seminars.

 

Useful experience

Useful experience for managing directors includes:

  • management experience
  • training and motivating people
  • work involving strategic planning
  • involvement with voluntary organisations
  • financial or administrative experience


Knowledge and experience in different areas within their organisation is also useful.

 

 

Related courses

Business Management

Human Resource Management

Organisation Management

Document Actions