Q: My manuscript status changed from "Awaiting chief editor processing" to "Awaiting manager editor processing". What does that mean?

The chief editor and managing editor work on different aspects of manuscript processing. The chief editor normally looks into whether a manuscript fits the scope of the journal and if it is academically sound, and the managing editor normally looks into whether the manuscript is complete and if it adheres to the journal requirements.

The status change indicates that the manuscript is being checked by the managing editor for further processing (e.g. to be sent for peer-review). You should hear from the journal soon on the status. I can understand that you might be nervous about the outcome of your submission. Please be reassured that you will hear from the journal soon! If not, you can write to the editorial office for a detailed status update of your submission.

You may also find these resources helpful:

• What does the status change from "With editor" to "With managing editor" indicate?
• Keep calm and wait: A guide to understanding journal statuses [Handbook]

Hope this helps. All the best for your submission!