Someone must initiate and manage the planning process. It may be led by the CEO or by a staff person. Planning initiated, led and conducted by line managers is generally the best. "Don’t let your planning process push you around. Take charge and harness it’s power to achieve your goals. It’s a jungle out there and the competition is sure to know where they are going. Don’t let them beat you to your destination."

from URL http://www.positive-way.com/business/planning.htm