What is an Operations Manager?
Operations Manager Job Profile
Operations Managers orchestrate people, processes, and resources so the business delivers on time, on budget, and to spec. They convert strategy into day-to-day execution and measurable results.
Key Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities
- Optimize processes for cost, speed, quality, and safety.
- Oversee production, logistics, inventory, and vendor performance.
- Set KPIs, review dashboards, and drive corrective actions.
- Manage budgets and support data-driven decisions.
- Align staffing, training, and schedules to demand.
- Lead cross-functional initiatives and change management.
Qualifications, Skills, and Qualities
We've broken down some skills and experience based on seniority so you know more about career prospects.
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Entry Level
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
- Strong understanding of business principles and supply chain concepts.
- Excellent communication and organizational skills.
- Familiarity with inventory management and production planning.
- Internship or relevant project experience preferred.
Intermediate Level
- 3-5 years of experience in an operations or management role.
- Proven ability to manage daily operations and improve efficiency.
- Experience with process improvement methodologies (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma).
- Strong analytical skills for data-driven decision making.
- Proficiency in project management and budget control.
Senior Level
- 7+ years of experience in a leadership role within operations.
- Demonstrated success in leading and mentoring large teams.
- Expertise in strategic planning and implementing operational goals.
- Strong financial acumen with P&L (Profit and Loss) responsibility.
- Experience with global supply chain management and logistics.
Operations leadership remains critical as supply chains evolve and automation expands. Managers who pair people leadership with analytics and technology fluency will have excellent career mobility.
Operations Manager FAQs
An Operations Manager focuses on the continuous, day-to-day processes that keep a business running, such as production, supply chain, and logistics. Their goal is to maintain and improve efficiency in the ongoing business. A Project Manager, by contrast, focuses on temporary, unique projects with a specific beginning and end. They manage a team to complete a defined set of tasks, like launching a new product or implementing a new software system, and then the role concludes.
Lean and Six Sigma are powerful methodologies used to improve processes. Lean focuses on eliminating waste and increasing efficiency in a process, ensuring that every step adds value. Six Sigma aims to reduce defects and variations in a process, leading to a more consistent and predictable outcome. Operations Managers use these tools to identify and fix bottlenecks, streamline workflows, and ensure the business produces high-quality products or services consistently, which is crucial for profitability and customer satisfaction.
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