How to Become an Operations Manager: A Step-by-Step Guide

Becoming an operations manager is an exciting career path for those who enjoy managing processes and leading teams. Operations managers are responsible for ensuring businesses run efficiently, ensuring everything from production to logistics works smoothly. To help you succeed in this role, you need to know how to become an operations manager, what education is required, the essential skills needed, and other key steps.

What Does an Operations Manager Do?

An operations manager is in charge of making sure that the day-to-day operations of a business run easily. Their main job is to improve how things work, manage resources like people and money, and help the company reach its goals. They concentrate on enhancing the efficiency of processes, overseeing teams, and guaranteeing the fulfillment of quality standards. Common duties include:

• Managing teams: Leading and supervising staff across different departments.
• Improving processes: Finding ways to make workflows faster, cheaper, and more effective.
• Managing budgets: Ensuring that operations stay within financial limits.
• Quality control: Making sure that products or services meet company standards.
• Supply chain management: Working with suppliers and managing inventory.

Many industries, including manufacturing, retail, healthcare, and logistics, employ operations managers. Their role is vital to making sure everything runs efficiently and aligns with the company’s overall goals.

How to Become an Operations Manager

1. Get the Right Education

Having the proper education is one of the most important factors in becoming an operations manager. Although it’s possible to become an operations manager without a degree, most employers prefer candidates who have at least a bachelor’s degree in a related area. Popular degree choices include:

• Business Administration
• Management
• Supply Chain Management
• Project Management

According to different sources, about 62% of operations managers hold a bachelor’s degree, and around 9% have a master’s degree.

2. Gain Relevant Work Experience

Once you’ve got the education requirements, you need to advance in your career and eventually become an operations manager, and acquire hands-on experience. Here are a few steps to gaining that experience:

• Start in entry-level roles: Working as an operations assistant or a coordinator helps you learn the ins and outs of daily operations.
• Internships: If you are still in school, internships are a great way to meet new people and get experience in the real world.
• Cross-departmental experience: Working in other departments like sales, finance, or logistics can give you a broader understanding of how the whole company operates, which is useful when managing operations.

3. Build Essential Operations Manager Skills

Operations manager skills are critical to succeeding in this role. Some of the top skills needed include:

• Leadership: As an operations manager, you’ll lead teams and motivate staff to meet company goals.
• Analytical thinking: You must examine processes, identify problems, and devise ways to increase efficiency.
• Communication: Clear communication is essential when dealing with multiple teams or departments.
• Problem-solving: Quick thinking and the capacity to handle problems as they emerge are essential.
• Project management: It allows you to keep activities running smoothly, on time, and under budget.

If you’re wondering how to be an operations manager, mastering these skills is a crucial part of the journey.

4. Consider Getting Certified

Although they are not always necessary, credentials can enhance your resume and increase your competitiveness when applying for operations manager positions.Several popular certificates include:

• Certified Supply Chain Professionals (CSCP): Concentrates on supply chain management and industry best practices.
• Lean Six Sigma: It focuses process improvement and efficiency.
• Project Management Professional (PMP): Shows that you can manage complex projects.

Certifications help build your expertise in areas like supply chain management and process improvement, which are critical for operations roles.

5. Network and Find a Mentor

Networking is a key aspect of advancing your profession. Attend industry events, conferences, or seminars to connect with other professionals in your sector. Networking can help you locate career prospects as well as useful business insights.

Finding a mentor with operations management experience might also help you get forward. A mentor can help you navigate problems, offer guidance, and build important operations manager abilities.

6. Apply for Operations Manager Jobs

After obtaining the required education and experience, you can begin applying for operations management employment. Customize your CV to highlight your relevant experience, including leadership qualities, analytical talents, and any process improvements you’ve implemented in previous employment.

During interviews, be prepared to discuss how you managed teams, solved challenges, or improved operations in previous positions. This will show potential employers you can handle operations manager duties.

7. Continue Learning and Growing

Operations management is a dynamic field. To be competitive, you must continue to learn about new trends, technologies, and best practices. Consider taking additional courses or earning more certifications as your career progresses.

Salary & Career Outlook for Operations Managers

The future looks promising for operations managers, with steady demand across different industries.

• Job Growth: The U.S. expects a 6% growth in management roles, including operations management, from 2022 to 2032.
• Industry Demand: Sectors like manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and retail need operations managers to improve efficiency.
• Career Advancement: With expertise, operations managers can move to positions such as director of operations, vice president of operations, and even chief operating officer (COO).

An operations manager’s salary depends on their experience, location, and industry. On average, operations managers in the U.S. earn between $48, 060 and $116,880 per year. Salaries can be higher in areas with a high demand for operations management, such as healthcare or logistics.

Building a Successful Career as an Operations Manager

Becoming an operations manager is an excellent career choice for those who appreciate managing processes and leading teams. Having a relevant degree and gaining experience is important, but skills like leadership, problem-solving, and communication are key to success. There is a strong demand for operations managers in industries like manufacturing and healthcare, with good opportunities for growth and advancement. By staying up-to-date with new trends and skills, you can build a successful long-term career in this field.