Final answer:
a. Entrepreneur. The term that fits the decisional roles mentioned - Disturbance Handler, Resource Allocator, Negotiator - is 'Entrepreneur'. This includes initiating changes and seeking opportunities to improve the organization.
Step-by-step explanation:
The role of a manager in a business involves various functions, which can be categorized into interpersonal, informational, and decisional roles according to Henry Mintzberg's managerial roles theory. The question asks about a decisional role that encompasses activities such as being a Disturbance Handler, Resource Allocator, and Negotiator. The correct answer to fill in the blank is 'Entrepreneur', as this role involves initiating change, seeking new opportunities, and leading projects that direct the organization towards innovation and improvement.
As an Entrepreneur, managers proactively seek to improve their unit by adapting it to changing environmental conditions. They also identify new ideas and implement them, turning problems into opportunities. As a Disturbance Handler, managers must deal with conflicts or crises and take corrective action. The Resource Allocator role includes deciding where organizational resources are best applied and in what proportion. Finally, as Negotiators, managers represent the organization during major negotiations, influencing or managing relationships with other parties.
Examples of entrepreneurial activities
- Developing a new marketing strategy for the company.
- Launching a new product line to address a market need.
- Restructuring a department to improve efficiency and effectiveness.