Which management role is primarily focused on ongoing operations rather than project-specific tasks?

The role of a Functional Manager is primarily focused on overseeing ongoing operations within a specific department or function of an organization. This role is involved in the regular management of teams or resources within a stable environment, where the emphasis is on maintaining effective day-to-day operations and achieving departmental goals.

Functional Managers typically manage routine tasks, allocate resources efficiently, ensure that their teams are performing well, and handle performance evaluations. Their work often encompasses planning, staffing, training, and directing personnel within their function, rather than the temporary, time-limited tasks that a Project Manager or Dedicated Project Manager would handle.

In contrast, roles like a Project Manager or a Dedicated Project Manager focus specifically on projects, which have a defined beginning and end, unique deliverables, and specific objectives. A Scrum Master, operating within the framework of Agile project management, also concentrates on the facilitation of the Scrum process for the team's project work rather than ongoing operations.

The clear distinction lies in the focus areas: a Functional Manager's responsibility encompasses ongoing operations and long-term management while project-focused roles deal with temporary initiatives aimed at achieving specific results.