Roles of Manager

Discuss Henry Mintzberg’s classification of basic role performed by manager in modern

organization.
The job of a modern manager is very complex and multi-dimensional. Therefore, a
manager has to play several roles to perform his job effectively and efficiently.
Mintzberg has identified ten roles of a manager which are grouped into three categories.
There is some arbitrariness in this classification but it is a useful framework for analyzing
and understanding the managerial job. These jobs are inseparable and should, therefore,
be viewed as an integrated whole. For example, status as manifested in the interpersonal
roles, brings information to the manager and it is this information that enables him to
perform the decision-making role effectively.

Ten Managerial Work Roles

INTERPERSONAL ROLES
1. Figurehead- In this role a manager performs symbolic duties required by the status
of his office. Making speeches, bestowing honours, welcoming official visitors,
distributing gifts to retiring employees are of such ceremonial and social duties.
2. Leader-This role defines the manager’s relationship with his own subordinates. The
manager sets an example, legitimizes the power of subordinates and brings their needs in
accord with those of his organization.
3. Liaison-It describes a manager’s relationships with the outsiders. A manager maintains
mutually beneficial relation with other organization, government, industry groups, etc.

INFORMATIONAL ROLES
4. Monitor-It implies seeking and receiving information about his organization and
external events. An example is picking up a rumour about his organization.
5. Disseminator-It involves transmitting information and judgments to the member of the
organization. The information relates to internal operations and the external environment.
A manager calling a staff meeting after a business trip is an example of such a role.
6. Spokesman- In this role, a manager speaks for his organization. He lobbies and
defends his enterprise. A manager addressing the trade union is an example.

DECISIONAL ROLES
7. Entrepreneur-It involves initiating change or acting as a change agent. For example, a
manager decides to launch a feasibility study for setting up a new plant.
8. Disturbance handler-This refers to taking charge when a organization face a problem
or crisis, e.g., a strike, feud between subordinates, loss of an important customer. A
manager handles conflicts, complaints and competitive actions.
9. Resource allocator- In this role a manager approves budgets and schedules, sets
priorities and distributes resources.
10. Negotiator-As a negotiator, a manager bargains with suppliers, dealers, trade union,
agents, etc.