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This bar graph shows the annual salary for Operations Managers.
Data sourced from O*NET Online, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
This line chart shows the projected job growth over 10 years for Operations Managers.
Projected Growth Rate in Job Openings by 2031: 7%
Data sourced from CareerOneStop, provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Direct administrative activities directly related to making products or providing services.
Direct and coordinate activities of businesses or departments concerned with the production, pricing, sales, or distribution of products.
Review financial statements, sales or activity reports, or other performance data to measure productivity or goal achievement or to identify areas needing cost reduction or program improvement.
Becoming an operations manager involves a mix of education, experience, and skill development. Aspiring professionals should focus on building a strong foundation in business practices, leadership, and specialized knowledge relevant to their industry of interest. Here's your guide to stepping into the role of an operations manager.
To start off on the right foot, you'll want to pursue relevant educational credentials:
Bachelor’s Degree: Most employers look for candidates with a bachelor's degree in business administration, operations management, or a related field. Courses in these programs often cover topics such as project management, supply chain management, and organizational behavior.
Master’s Degree (Optional): For those aiming at higher-level positions or wanting to deepen their expertise, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a master's degree in operations management can be beneficial.
Certifications: Consider obtaining professional certifications to enhance your qualifications. Certifications like the Certified Operations Manager (COM), Project Management Professional (PMP), or Six Sigma Green Belt can demonstrate your commitment and expertise to potential employers.
Operations managers typically need several years of experience. Here's how you can accumulate it:
Entry-Level Positions: Start in roles such as operations assistant, supervisor, or any position that gives you insight into business processes and operations.
Cross-Functional Experience: Seek opportunities to work in different departments, such as finance, logistics, or human resources, to gain a holistic understanding of how the company operates.
Leadership Roles: As you progress, take on leadership roles that allow you to manage teams and projects. This will help you develop the necessary skills to oversee an organization's operations.
To excel as an operations manager, focus on developing the following skills:
Leadership and Management: Learn how to motivate teams, delegate tasks effectively, and make strategic decisions.
Problem-Solving: Be adept at identifying problems quickly and using analytical skills to develop and implement solutions.
Communication: Hone your ability to communicate clearly and effectively with team members, stakeholders, and senior management.
Time Management: Master the art of managing your time efficiently to balance multiple projects and priorities.
Technical Proficiency: Stay up-to-date with industry-specific software and tools that are essential for streamlining operations.
Engage with the professional community:
Professional Associations: Join organizations such as APICS (Association for Supply Chain Management) or The Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences (INFORMS) for networking opportunities and resources.
Conferences and Workshops: Attend industry conferences, workshops, and webinars to keep up with the latest trends and best practices in operations management.
Mentorship: Find a mentor who is an experienced operations manager. Their guidance can provide valuable insights into navigating your career path.
An effective operations manager must be knowledgeable about changes in their field:
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to becoming an operations manager. Remember that continuous learning and adaptability are key in this dynamic career path. Focus on building a strong foundation of education, experience, and skills development while staying connected with the professional community.
An Operations Manager is a key figure in any organization, responsible for overseeing and coordinating daily operations to ensure efficiency and effectiveness in meeting company objectives. They play a crucial role in managing teams, improving processes, and driving business performance.
To become an Operations Manager, you typically need:
Some positions may also require a Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA) or related areas for higher-level management roles.
To advance your career as an Operations Manager, consider the following steps:
Typical responsibilities of an Operations Manager include:
Operations Managers are employed across various industries including:
Each industry requires a specific set of skills and knowledge tailored to its operational demands.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics{.noopener noreferrer}, employment of operations managers is projected to grow at an average rate compared to all occupations. The demand for skilled managers who can improve efficiency and productivity is expected to sustain job opportunities in this field.
Salaries for Operations Managers can vary widely based on factors such as:
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics{.noopener noreferrer} provides up-to-date information on wage estimates for operations managers across various industries and locations.
Yes, almost every organization requires operations management at some level. Whether it's a small business or a multinational corporation, nonprofit or government agency, there is a need for individuals who can ensure that the business runs smoothly and efficiently.
Key skills for an Operations Manager include:
To stay current with trends affecting Operations Management: