The corporate services director is in charge of the entire operation in most businesses. He or she is in charge of all aspects of the business, though department heads, supervisors, and employees usually work under him or her to help achieve company goals and manage day-to-day operations. A services director’s primary responsibility is to provide leadership and direction.
A corporate services director is expected to interact with corporate partners, potential partners, and others who affect the company’s operations. This interaction can take many forms, ranging from regional meetings to international travel. He or she is frequently viewed as the company’s face, promoting the company’s mission, services, and products.
Another responsibility of the director is to lead the corporation. During a recession, for example, a director may be forced to make difficult decisions about where to cut costs and how to save money. When an economic boom occurs, it may be necessary to make decisions that will keep the company ahead of the competition in terms of success. Top-level leadership is more concerned with the big picture than with day-to-day operations. One example of leading the corporate structure is commissioning a study to determine a faster manufacturing method for products.
Employee motivation is another aspect of a corporate services director’s responsibilities. The director approves productivity and reward programs in collaboration with human resource directors, production supervisors, and others. Such programs may provide paid time off or financial incentives for completing a task ahead of schedule. The services director typically signs memos explaining incentive programs, reminding employees that they are all on the same team.
The director is usually in charge of establishing corporate policies. Workplace policies can range from dress codes to emergency procedures. Policies are usually discussed and decided upon in collaboration with department heads, and then approved the corporate services director before being distributed to company employees. When the public or government officials question a company’s ethics or policies, the director is usually held accountable. Being the CEO of a company can be a demanding but rewarding position.
Strong leadership abilities, excellent communication skills, the ability to work under pressure, and strong decision-making skills are all required for becoming a corporate services director. The hours of a corporate services director can be very long, extending into the evenings and weekends. Applicants for most jobs must have a background in either human resources or finance. A college diploma, preferably in business administration, is also required, as well as several years of management experience.