How to become an Operations Manager

How to become an Operations Manager Being a smooth operator just got a whole new meaning… Operations Managers monitor, analyse, and improve a business’s production systems, in order to achieve the highest level of productivity.They’re an important part of almost every industry, meaning Operations Managers could work in anything from healthcare and hospitality, to manufacturing and retail.Whilst their role may vary depending on the industry and organisation they work in, they’re typically tasked with financial, staff, and resource management, as well as communications, safety measures, quality control, and setting goals/objectives.Typical tasks and duties for an Operations Manager include:Developing operations strategiesPlanning and handling changeResearching new technologiesPreparing action plans and auditsManaging the recruitment and training of staffAnalysing and improving workflowEnforcing health and safety proceduresIs it right for me?As an Operations Manager’s role is particularly broad, you’ll need a wide range of skills to be successful.First and foremost, great communication and leadership skills are a must â€" which will help you to ensure teams are working well together towards a strategic goal. You’ll also need to be an excellent decision maker and business negotiator.Because you’ll focus on long-term goals as well as the day-to-day running of a business, an ability to see both the big and small picture is key.Operations Managers will also need to be:OrganisedGood problem solversProcess drivenAn excellent leaderA great delegatorA team playerInnovativeDiplomaticCareer Progression Entry-level Operations ManagerUp to £28,000 Operations ManagerUp to £35,000 Chief Operations OfficerUp to £65,000What's it really like? I’m an Operations Manager for a small manufacturing company, and I’m a big fan of the variation my job gives me. In a nutshell, I’m responsible for (almost) everything that affects productivity â€" whether it’s recruitment, stock, safety, processes (or anything else that seems to come up!) I’ve always been good at organisation, which makes the role a good fit. Being a good mediator is also key. Of course, it can be stressful at times, especially when things aren’t going well â€" but that only pushes me to try harder to find viable solutions to get things back on track. Get qualifiedEmployers will usually look for candidates who are educated to degree level, and many applicants will hold a Master’s degree in business (or a similar subject). Qualifications in business administration, such as the Business Administration Diploma. This with a previous background in their industry, or in management in general, are likely to stand out.