Business directors, often called business managers, are responsible for overseeing operations at different types of organizations. Lodging managers, store directors, factory or plant managers and directors at scientific or charitable nonprofits are all examples of business directors. They usually have a variety of supervisory and administrative duties, including oversight of various departments and hiring senior staff.

Education and Experience

Nearly all business directors have at least a bachelor's degree, and many have earned graduate degrees. A chemical plant or refinery director may have a chemical engineering degree, while a hotel manager might have a degree in business or hospitality management. Many business directors have also completed a master's degree in industrial management or business administration. Business directors typically have at least five years of industry experience.

Operational Oversight

Overseeing the day-today operations of an enterprise is one of the primary duties of a business director. Whether managing a payroll processing service or an oil refinery, the job is to make sure a high-quality product or service is delivered on time every day. A business director typically works closely with various department heads in larger businesses, but business directors often directly manage some departments in small and medium-sized businesses. Business directors are also responsible for seeking out and implementing improvements to business processes.

Finances

Business directors are also responsible for supervising a business's financial and accounting functions. Accounting and payroll departments usually produce regular reports for the business director, who keeps a pretty close eye on cash flow and the bottom line. Many large organizations structure employment contracts so that business directors receive incentive bonuses based on quarterly or annual financial performance.

Administration and Compliance

Depending on the size of the enterprise, many business directors have a number of administration- and compliance-related duties as well. Business directors sometimes take an active role in human resources in smaller organizations, and it is their job to ensure that both the business and all employees have all required licenses and certifications. Business directors, along with owners, are also legally responsible for filing all required financial reports or other documents with regulatory agencies.