What is staff authority?

There are two different ways that staff authority can be used in a business. The first is acting as an adviser of sorts, providing advice and support to different line departments in a company. The second is to advise other managers in a business.

Staff authority can be found in multiple departments in an organization. This includes engineering, finance, purchasing and personnel. However, staff authority does not give individuals the authority to direct other management or staff. They only have the authority to advise on certain matters. These matters include budgeting, pricing and controlling employees. Staff authority also gives the authority to advise on any special circumstances that may arise.