Which level of management is primarily responsible for tactical planning?

Tactical planning is primarily the responsibility of middle management because this level serves as a bridge between top management and frontline employees. While top management focuses on strategic planning, which involves long-term goals and the overall direction of the organization, middle management is tasked with translating these broad strategies into specific actions and plans that can be implemented by frontline managers and their teams.

Middle managers develop detailed plans to achieve the objectives set by top management, coordinating resources and actions across various departments. They play a crucial role in managing the day-to-day operations while ensuring that the tactical plans align with the strategic vision of the organization. This often includes setting specific goals, allocating resources, and establishing timelines that guide frontline managers in their operational activities.

Top management is typically focused on high-level strategic planning and long-term vision, while frontline management concentrates on operational execution and everyday tasks. Executive management, akin to top management, deals primarily with overarching organizational strategies rather than the tactical details that middle management handles.