Who typically has the highest level of authority in an organization?

Top managers hold the highest level of authority in an organization, as they are responsible for setting the overall direction and strategic goals of the company. This group typically includes positions like the CEO, CFO, and other executive roles that influence major decisions affecting the entire organization. Their decisions typically encompass resource allocation, organizational policy, and long-term planning.

Top managers are also tasked with ensuring that the organization responds effectively to external challenges and opportunities, guiding the entire workforce toward achieving the company's mission. This role necessitates a broad understanding of the business environment, as well as the ability to implement policies and motivate employees across various levels and departments. By providing vision and leadership, top managers create the framework within which all other managerial levels operate, making their authority critical to the overall success of the organization.