We were between managers for a while recently and I was taking instructions directly from the owner of the business. This was the case for a couple of months so I became very familiar with my duties as the owner/big boss expected them to be done.
The new manager is now giving me instructions that are in conflict with the owner’s priority schedule for me (which I was not informed would change in anyway upon the manager’s arrival). The owner is on holiday, so I have no means to check with him. The new manager is new to the business as a whole and has only been working for a few days.
It seems clear that I should just follow my manager’s direction. But if I know for a fact that missing out certain assignments will have a very negative impact, then should I simply do as I’m told? I’ve told the manager I have concerns but they’ve brushed these off and told me they’ll take responsibility.
However if the manager is giving incorrect direction by virtue of being new and not knowing the business yet, I am concerned that the owner, whose instructions to me have been clear, will blame me for allowing the business to have a real crisis next week.
How can I handle these conflicting instructions professionally?