An operations manager is essential to any organisation, overseeing and coordinating various aspects of the company's day-to-day operations. 

Operations managers are involved in planning, organising, and controlling processes and resources to ensure the company's goals are achieved efficiently and effectively.

With the rapid pace of technological advancements and ever-evolving business models, the role of an operations manager has become increasingly vital for the success of any organisation. 

This career guide will provide an in-depth look at the skills and qualifications required to become an operations manager, the current job market trends and prospects in the field.

What is an Operations Manager?

An operations manager ensures that a company's operations run smoothly and efficiently. They oversee the production of goods or services and manage the resources necessary to produce them. This includes operational staff, inventory, equipment, and facilities.

The primary responsibilities of an operations manager may include the following:

• Planning and implementing operational strategies to achieve the organisation's goals.
• Overseeing the production process and ensuring quality control.
• Managing inventory levels and ensuring timely delivery of products or services.
• Developing and maintaining relationships with suppliers, vendors, and customers.
• Hiring and training staff and monitoring their performance.
• Analysing data and making decisions based on performance metrics.
• Ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Managing budgets and controlling costs.

Skills Required by an Operations Manager

• Leadership skills: Operations managers must possess strong leadership skills to manage and motivate their teams effectively.
• Communication skills: Good communication skills are essential for an operations manager to convey ideas and instructions clearly to their team members.
• Analytical skills: Operations managers must be able to analyse data and make informed decisions based on performance metrics.
• Problem-solving skills: The ability to identify problems and develop practical solutions is critical for an operations manager.
• Time management skills: Operations managers must manage their time effectively and prioritise tasks to meet deadlines.
• Attention to detail: Operations managers must possess excellent attention to detail to ensure that all processes are completed accurately.
• Technical skills: Operations managers must possess knowledge of the technology and tools necessary to perform their duties effectively.

How to become an operation Manager

Becoming an operations manager requires education, experience, and skills. Here are the steps to becoming an operations manager:

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor's Degree

The first step to becoming an operations manager is to earn a bachelor's degree in a related field, such as business administration, management, engineering, or operations management. These programs provide students with a foundation in business principles, operations management, supply chain management, and logistics.

Step 2: Gain Experience

To become an operations manager, you must gain field experience. This can be achieved through internships, entry-level positions, or relevant work experience. Look for opportunities to work in operations management, supply chain management, logistics, or other related fields to gain practical experience and learn about the industry.

Step 3: Develop Skills

Operations managers require a variety of skills to succeed in the role. These include leadership, communication, analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills. You can develop these skills by taking courses, attending workshops, or participating in professional development programs.

Step 4: Pursue Certifications

Certifications can enhance your skills and credibility as an operations manager. There are several certifications available in the field of operations management, including Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM), Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), and Certified in Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution (CLTD).

Step 5: Consider Graduate Education

While only sometimes necessary, some operations managers pursue graduate education to advance their careers. A Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA) focusing on operations or supply chain management can provide a deeper understanding of the field and enhance your leadership skills.

Step 6: Apply for Positions

Once you have gained the necessary education, experience, and skills, you can apply for operations management positions. Look for job openings in your industry or sector, and tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills.

Step 7: Advance Your Career

As you gain experience and demonstrate your skills as an operations manager, you can advance your career by taking on more responsibility and pursuing higher-level management positions. You can also pursue international experience or additional certifications to enhance your skills and expand your career opportunities.

Becoming an operations manager requires education, experience, and skills. By following these steps, you can develop the necessary qualifications to become an effective operations manager and pursue a rewarding career in this field.

Job Market Trends and Future Prospects

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of operations managers is projected to grow by 6% from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations. This growth is due to the increasing complexity of business operations and the need for companies to become more efficient and cost-effective.

As technology evolves, operations managers must stay up-to-date with the latest tools and systems to remain competitive in the job market. This includes understanding how to leverage data analytics and automation to improve operational efficiency.

Furthermore, the demand for operations managers will likely increase in healthcare, e-commerce, logistics, and supply chain management industries. With the growth of these industries, the need for skilled operations managers who can manage complex operations and deliver results will also increase.

Salary Range

The salary range for an operations manager varies depending on the industry, size of the organisation, and level of experience. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for an operations manager in the United States is $76,262 annually. However, this can vary widely, with salaries ranging from $51,000 to $117,000 annually.

In addition to a base salary, operations managers may receive bonuses or incentives based on their performance and the organisation's success.

Career Growth Opportunities

An operations manager can grow their career by taking on additional responsibilities and expanding their skillset. For example, they can move into higher-level management positions, such as director or vice president of operations.

Operations managers can also pursue certifications in specific areas of operations management, such as supply chain management or quality management. These certifications can improve their skills and enhance their credibility with potential employers.

Another way for operations managers to advance their careers is to gain international experience. Companies with global operations may require managers to work in different countries, providing opportunities to learn about other cultures and business practices.

Challenges and Opportunities in the Field

The field of operations management presents various challenges and opportunities for professionals. Some of the challenges include the following:

• Managing complexity: Operations managers must be able to manage complex processes and workflows, including supply chain logistics, inventory management, and quality control.
• Meeting deadlines: Operations managers must ensure that operations are completed on time to meet production schedules, customer demand, and other business requirements.
• Controlling costs: Operations managers must manage costs effectively, including labour, raw materials, and overhead expenses.
• Adapting to change: Operations managers must adapt to changes in the business environment, such as new technologies, market trends, and customer preferences.

However, the field of operations management also presents several opportunities for professionals. These include:

• Continuous improvement: Operations managers can continually improve their processes to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve quality.
• Innovation: Operations managers can introduce new technologies and processes to improve operations and gain a competitive advantage.
• Leadership: Operations managers can develop leadership skills and manage teams effectively to achieve organisational goals.
• Impact: Operations managers can significantly impact the success of their organisations by improving efficiency, reducing costs, and increasing profitability.

An operations manager is crucial in any organisation, responsible for managing complex operations and ensuring that production goals are achieved efficiently and effectively. 

With the increasing complexity of business operations and the need for companies to become more efficient and cost-effective, the demand for skilled operations managers will likely increase.

While operations management presents several challenges, it also offers opportunities for continuous improvement, innovation, leadership development, and a significant impact on the organisation's success.