ZDC Controller described an uncertain coordination event when sequencing instructions were apparently given by an unidentified Supervisor or Traffic Manager that were less than effective.

Narrative

I was providing OJT on Hopewell Sector (R-16) to a Certified Professional Controller from another area in order to move the sector to another area. Sector R-36 called us to inform us that; at the direction of someone; he was not sure who a Supervisor or TMU; was told to put Aircraft X on a 320 degree heading. He did not know why. We were also not informed of the reason. The heading caused Aircraft X to be excessively delayed enroute to TEB. Further; the heading caused this aircraft to be forced with several Citation jets that were much slower all the way to TEB. The smart thing; and the preferred action; would have been to leave Aircraft X on the route; in front; and allow his greater airspeed to pull out in front. The actions by this unknown person caused us at Hopewell to work much harder than we had to; and caused an unnecessary delay to an aircraft. Further; it is extremely dangerous for someone to initiate an action affecting air traffic without coordinating with all involved sectors. Recommendation; if a Supervisor wants to initiate actions affecting an aircraft; they first need to coordinate and get the concurrence of the FPL's involved. Second if they do take action they should be aware that they assume responsibility for that action and everyone should know who did it.