General terms:
* Stellvertreter/in: This is the most common and general term for someone who substitutes or deputizes for another person.
* Vize: This term is used in various contexts, often meaning "vice" (e.g., Vize-Präsident, Vize-Direktor).
* Deputy: This English word is often used in German, especially in formal settings.
Specific terms:
* Stellvertretender/e Leiter/in: This means "deputy head" or "assistant manager."
* Stellvertretender/e Geschäftsführer/in: This means "deputy managing director."
* Stellvertretender/e Abteilungsleiter/in: This means "deputy department head."
Informal terms:
* Nummer Zwei: This literally means "number two" and is a more informal way to refer to the second-in-charge.
* rechte Hand: This means "right hand" and is used to describe someone who is very close to the person in charge and trusted to handle important tasks.
Example:
* "Der Stellvertreter des Geschäftsführers ist für die operative Leitung verantwortlich." (The deputy managing director is responsible for operational management.)
It's always best to choose the most specific term depending on the situation to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity.