Operations Manager Career Guide

What is an operations manager?

An operations manager makes sure everything in a company runs smoothly. They handle everything behind the scenes, ensuring that all parts of a company work well together. Their main job is to keep things moving, so the company does well and makes money.

Duties and responsibilities

Operations managers have a lot of different jobs. They plan and run the day-to-day stuff, work on making things better, and make sure everyone is doing their best work. They come up with rules on how things should be done, manage money and resources wisely to keep costs down, and think about how to make more money.

They also look at how work gets done and find ways to do it better. They’re always ready to solve problems and keep things from going wrong before they even happen. Plus, they often take care of managing the team, like checking how workers are doing and helping hire and train new people. They work a lot with the HR team to make sure the company has all the right people it needs.

Work environment

Operations managers usually work in an office, but they can be found in all kinds of places like stores, hospitals, or factories. Sometimes, they might need to go to places like warehouses or places where things are made or sold, depending on what the company does.

They have to work with lots of different departments like sales, HR, and finance, so they might move around a lot at work. The job can be pretty demanding because they have to handle a lot and fix problems when they pop up.

Typical work hours

Operations managers usually work normal office hours, like 40 hours a week from Monday to Friday. But sometimes they have to work extra, like in the evenings or on weekends, especially if there’s a big project or something urgent that needs their attention. They need to be ready to jump in and handle things whenever needed.

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How to become an operations manager

Want to be the boss who makes sure everything in a company runs like a well-oiled machine? Here’s how you can become an operations manager:

Step 1: Earn a bachelor’s degree

Start with a bachelor’s degree. You can choose business administration, finance, or something similar. These programs, which usually take about four years, will teach you the basics of managing a business, understanding money matters, and more.

Step 2: Gain some work experience

Once you’ve got your degree, you need to start working. Start with entry-level jobs in business or finance to see how things work from the inside. This will help you learn how to lead a team, understand how businesses operate, and get really good at solving problems.

Step 3: Consider a master’s degree (it’s optional)

You might think about getting a master’s degree, like an MBA, to learn even more about running a business. This step isn’t necessary, but it could help you move up faster and be more competitive for big jobs.

Step 4: Get certified

Getting a certificate isn’t required, but it can make you stand out. Look into certifications like the Certified Operations Manager (COM), Certified Manager (CM), or Project Management Professional (PMP). These show you’ve got extra skills in managing operations.

Step 5: Apply for jobs

Now, you’re ready to apply for operations manager jobs. Make sure your resume shows off your education, experience, and any special certifications. Also, get ready for interviews by practicing answers to common questions.

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How much do operations managers make?

Operations manager salaries will vary by experience, industry, education, location, and organization size. The industry in which they work plays a significant role in determining their salary, as does the size and profitability of the organization.

Highest paying industries

• Computer and Peripheral Equipment Manufacturing: $130,000
• Securities and Commodity Contracts: $125,000
• Oil and Gas Extraction: $120,000
• Cable and Other Subscription Programming: $115,000
• Information Services: $110,000

Browse operations manager salary data by market

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Types of operations managers

Operations managers can specialize in various fields, each requiring a unique set of skills and responsibilities. Here’s a look at some common types:

General operations manager

A general operations manager handles the day-to-day workings of a company. They manage teams, set goals, and make sure everything gets done on time and within the budget. They also coordinate resources and talk to different departments. Strong leadership and communication skills are a must for this job.

Supply chain operations manager

This manager takes care of everything in the supply chain, from making products to delivering them. They work with suppliers, help production teams, and manage logistics to keep costs down and efficiency up. Being great at analyzing things and solving problems is crucial for this role.

Manufacturing operations manager

In the world of manufacturing, these managers make sure production runs smoothly. They look after resources, keep everyone safe, find the best ways to make things, and lead their teams. Knowing a lot about how things are made and being good at improving processes are important for this job.

Retail operations manager

A retail operations manager ensures that stores operate effectively. They work with store managers, keep an eye on stock levels, lead training programs, and manage sales tactics. Understanding the retail business and having top-notch customer service skills are key.

IT operations manager

These managers handle the company’s tech needs. They manage IT teams, fix tech problems, upgrade systems, and more. A strong background in IT and good tech skills are needed to succeed in this role.

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Top skills for operations managers

Becoming a great operations manager means mastering a few key skills that help everything in a company run smoothly. Here are the top skills you need:

Strategic planning and forecasting

You’ve got to be good at making plans that fit the company’s goals and predicting future market trends. This helps you make smart decisions that keep the company moving forward.

Leadership abilities

A big part of the job is leading your team well. You need to be able to motivate and guide your team to meet goals, and make sure everyone has what they need to do their best.

Problem-solving skills

Things don’t always go as planned, so being able to think on your feet and solve problems quickly is crucial. This keeps things running smoothly, even when surprises come up.

Budget management

You’ll be in charge of the money for operations, which means keeping an eye on expenses and making sure everything stays on budget. Knowing how to read financial statements and adjust plans is key.

Communication and interpersonal skills

Good communication means being clear and understanding others well, whether it’s your team, bosses, or customers. It’s all about making sure everyone is on the same page.

Understanding of process improvement methodologies

Knowing how to make business processes better, like using Lean or Six Sigma, is really important. This helps you keep things efficient and improve how the company works.

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Operations manager career path options

Operations managers have a broad range of opportunities to move up in their careers thanks to their versatile skills. Here are some exciting directions they can take:

Regional or area operations manager

After gaining experience, many operations managers take charge of multiple locations within a specific area. This role expands their responsibilities and gives them control over a larger region, where they ensure everything runs smoothly across various sites.

Director of operations

With enough experience and proven skills in managing big projects, they can become a director of operations. This role involves overseeing operations across the country or even globally. They manage different regional managers, unify practices across the company, and help set strategic goals.

Chief operations officer (COO)

One of the top spots in the company, the COO, is a key executive role. COOs manage the day-to-day administrative and operational functions of a business. They often work closely with the CEO and are sometimes in line to take over the CEO’s job.

Transition to project management or consultancy

Managers with a knack for process management may also move into project management or consultancy. In project management, they can use their skills to oversee specific projects. As consultants, they might advise other companies on how to streamline operations.

Move into business development

Using their deep understanding of how the company works internally, these pros can also excel in business development roles. They can help the company grow by finding new business opportunities and planning strategies for expansion.

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Similar job titles

• General Manager
• Director of Operations
• Office Manager
• Logistics Manager
• Warehouse Manager

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Position trends and outlook for operations managers

The role of an operations manager is evolving rapidly, driven by changes in technology, global business practices, and an increasing focus on sustainability. Here’s a closer look at what’s shaping this field:

• Impact of tech: As digital technology advances, it’s reshaping how companies handle their day-to-day operations. Managers need to be tech-savvy, understanding how to implement and manage digital systems that streamline processes and enhance productivity.
• Focus on sustainability: Environmental sustainability is becoming a crucial part of operations management. Pros in this field are expected to find ways to minimize waste and implement eco-friendly practices throughout their organizations.

Employment projections

The demand for skilled operations managers is expected to increase. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in this field are projected to grow by 6% through 2031. This growth is fueled by the need for businesses to enhance efficiency and manage costs effectively.

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Operations manager career tips

Understand industry specifics

Knowing the ins and outs of your industry is crucial. Learn about the rules, best practices, and latest trends in your sector. This knowledge will help you make smart decisions and boost how well your operations run.

Master project management

As you’ll often manage multiple projects at once, strong project management skills are key. Familiarize yourself with different methods to manage resources, timelines, and teams effectively. This can help you streamline operations and increase your productivity.

Analyze and leverage data

Data is a big deal in operations. Being able to analyze and use data effectively can help you spot trends, make better decisions, and improve overall operations. Skills in statistical analysis and using relevant software are very valuable.

Embrace continuous learning

Staying up-to-date with new business management ideas and techniques is essential. Here are some ways to keep learning:

• Online courses: Check out platforms like Coursera and Udemy for operations management courses.
• Certifications: Boost your qualifications with certificates like the Project Management Professional (PMP) or Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP).
• Workshops and seminars: Learn from experts by attending industry events.

Build a professional network

Networking is a powerful tool for career growth. These connections can open up new job opportunities, offer personal development insights, and improve your productivity. Connect with other pros by joining organizations such as:

• The Association for Operations Management (APICS)
• Operations Management Association (OMA)
• Production and Operations Management Society (POMS)
• American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS)

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FAQs