The Project Manager has sole responsibility and authority for project and contract direction and control. Senior Management appoints the Project Manager. The Project Manager has the delegated authority to commit the organization on matters concerning performance that are within the contract scope. The Project Manager is responsible for defining the organizational structure of the project and for interfacing with the functional organizations. The Project Manager makes final decisions on tradeoff studies, and task changes within the contract statement of work.
Projects vary in duration, value, and complexity.
On a large or complex project, the Project Manager may elect to appoint one or more Assistant Project Managers. The Project Manager may delegate single or multiple responsibilities, including budget responsibility to an Assistant Project Manager. The Project Manager may direct the Assistant Project Manager to control all work performed within the framework of various assigned WBS legs. This includes defining work scope, authorizing work, assigning and controlling budgets, and monitoring progress. Most companies operates under a functional organization structure.