designee

Designee is a person who has been designated to act on behalf of another person or organization. The designation may arise through a formal appointment, mandate, power of attorney, or other authorization. The term emphasizes the role of being named rather than the specific office held.

In legal and administrative contexts, designees perform tasks, sign documents, receive notices, or represent the principal in specified matters, often for a limited period or in particular circumstances. Their authority is defined by the designation and may require written confirmation.

Designee versus appointee or agent: designee is a generic term for someone named to act, while appointee usually refers to filling a named office, and agent or delegate denotes authority to act on behalf of another party. The designation clarifies the scope and duties of the person named.

Designation is typically documented through a designation letter, contract, or instrument such as a power of attorney or corporate resolution. The scope, duration, and conditions of the designee's authority determine what actions are allowed and when revocation is possible.

Common uses include corporate governance (a designee to represent a member at meetings), government programs (a designee authorized to receive notices or benefits), and legal arrangements (an appointed designee under power of attorney or estate matters).

Etymology: designee comes from designare, with historical usage in English through French, reflecting the act of designating someone for a role or function.