Definition
Directly engaged in the operations of a business, rather than in a hands off, managerial position.
Origins
From being in a coal mine, at the face where the mining is actually occurring, especially in dark, cramped, dirty, hazardous conditions. Compare front line and trenches, of similar formation.
Also Said As
- in the trenches
- where the rubber meets the road
See Also
- chalkface
- codeface
- front line
- day-to-day
- hands-on
- nitty-gritty
- nuts and bolts
- on the tools
- roll up one's sleeves