To become an operations manager, you must oversee and streamline a company’s day-to-day operations to ensure the business runs smoothly. It involves managing people, systems, funds, and plans to increase productivity, quality, and profitability. Operations manager jobs may be for you if you love solving problems, streamlining, and being an effective leader. It will teach you how to be an operations manager, what skills you need to develop as well, and how to get promoted in this position.

What Is an Operations Manager?

Operations managers manage an organisation’s internal processes to optimise and grow business. The duties of these employees can vary by industry but include:

• Manage Day-to-Day Processes: The operations manager oversees the company’s everyday processes. Hence, the business runs smoothly. It’s everything from managing production, transportation, supply chains, and administrative work.
• Process Improvement and Process Improvement: Finding inefficiencies, redundancies, and opportunities for improvement is a fundamental part of the job. Operations managers formulate processes, costs, and workflow improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• Budget Management and Control: Operations Managers plan, control, and monitor the budgets, track spending, and set up cost-control systems. They make sure everything runs smoothly and is in keeping with the company’s financial strategy.
• Organizing Teams and Human Capital: Onboarding and managing staff are among the most important tasks of an operations manager. They ensure that staff is efficient, motivated, and armed with resources to reach business objectives.
• Application of Policy & Processes: Operations managers create and implement company policies, processes, and standards to achieve consistency, compliance, and quality at all levels.
• Delivering Products/Services and Meeting Customer Expectations: Operations managers are responsible for delivering products or services that meet or exceed customers’ expectations. This includes keeping track of quality control, customer care, and fixing any issues.
• Supporting Strategic Planning and Business Development: Operations managers support senior leadership in goal setting, strategy formulation, and business development. They assist in decision-making, planning, and process alignment with strategic business goals.

Average Operations Manager Salary in the UK

In the UK, the salary of an operations manager depends on factors such as experience, industry, and location. Entry-level operations managers can expect to earn between £25,000 and £35,000 per year.

With experience, qualifications, and industry expertise, salaries typically rise to between £35,000 and £50,000. Senior operations managers or those working in specialised sectors, such as finance, manufacturing, or logistics, may earn upwards of £60,000 or more per year. Additionally, bonuses and benefits can further enhance the overall compensation package.

Key Skills for a Successful Operations Manager

As an operations manager, you must possess technical, managerial, and interpersonal abilities. Key skills include:

• Management and Leadership: Operation managers must lead, inspire, and grow their teams to realise organisational objectives. Good leadership makes a workplace more fun, encourages collaboration, and generates performance.
• Problem Solving and Analysis: The key components are problem solving, data analysis, and real-world solutions. Operations managers must look outside the box, solve problems, and make decisions to drive better operations and outcomes.
• Communication and Human Resources: Operations managers deal with employees, senior executives, customers, and suppliers. Great communication also helps to communicate information, solve problems, and build relationships in the business.
• Organisation and Time Management: To operate at a high level, multitasking, balancing tasks, and juggling departments requires good organisation and time management skills.
• Financial and Budget Management Skills: Knowing how to design and develop budgets, manage expenses, and track finances is crucial. — Operations managers have to make business-relevant, cost-effective decisions.
• Process Management & Project Management: Ops managers are constantly searching for ways to be more efficient, productive, and quality-oriented. Project management is planning, implementing, and controlling a business project from beginning to end.
• Flexibility and Ability to Function Under Pressure Situations: The work environment can be volatile, challenging, and unpredictable. Operations managers should also be flexible, calm under pressure, and agile when evolving business environments.

Steps to Become an Operations Manager in the UK

• Obtain a Relevant Educational Background While a degree is not always mandatory, having a background in business-related subjects can provide a strong foundation for an operations management career. Consider pursuing qualifications such as:
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, or a related field
  • Higher National Diploma (HND) or Foundation Degree in business or management
  • Apprenticeships in business administration or management, which offer hands-on experience along with academic study

Advanced qualifications like a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) or Master’s in Operations Management can enhance your knowledge and open doors to senior roles.

• Gain Work Experience in Operations or Management Roles Practical experience is key to developing the skills needed for an operations manager role. Start your career in entry-level roles such as Operations Assistant, Team Leader, Supervisor, or Project Coordinator to gain hands-on experience in business operations, team management, and process improvement.
• Develop Key Skills and Build Business Acumen As you gain experience, focus on developing the core skills needed for operations management, including leadership, problem-solving, and financial acumen. Learn about your industry’s operations, market trends, customer needs, and supply chain processes.
• Consider Professional Certifications and Training Obtaining professional certifications can improve your credibility and skills as an operations manager. Some recognized certifications include:
  • Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) from the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM)
  • Certified Manager (CM) from the Institute of Certified Professional Managers (ICPM)
  • Lean Six Sigma Certification for process improvement and quality management
  • PRINCE2 (Projects in Controlled Environments) or AgilePM for project management

Attending workshops, seminars, and training courses in operations management, logistics, or business strategy can also help improve your skills and knowledge.

• Build Strong Leadership and People Management Skills Operations managers lead teams and drive productivity, so developing strong leadership and people management skills is essential. Take on leadership opportunities, such as managing small projects, mentoring colleagues, or leading team meetings, to enhance your leadership experience.
• Apply for Operations Manager Positions Once you have the required qualifications, experience, and skills, start applying for operations manager roles. Highlight your expertise in process improvement, team management, and strategic planning in your CV and cover letter. Tailor your application to the specific needs of the industry and organisation.
• Continuing Professional Development and Network Operations management is a constantly evolving field, so it’s important to engage in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to stay updated on industry trends, best practices, and new technologies. Networking with other professionals in the field through industry associations, events, or LinkedIn can help you find job opportunities, share insights, and gain career support.

Tips for Aspiring Operations Managers

• Learn More About Different Parts of Operations: Since operations management has several different functions, learning more about supply chain, logistics, finance, and production will let you learn the interconnection between different business divisions.
• Improve Your Problem-Solving and Analytical Skills: Operations managers are problem-solvers by nature. Improve your analytical abilities, focus, and capacity to identify and solve problems quickly and efficiently.
• Boost your communication and relationship-building: Good relationships with employees, stakeholders, and customers are essential. Work on being clear with words, listening, and bargaining for team and partner management.
• Stay Current with Technology and Tools in Operations Management: Learn about operations management software and tools, including ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), inventory management software, and data analytics software. Staying on top of things tech-wise will also make you more efficient and wise.
• Adopt Leading Positions & Exhibit Initiative: Show that you can lead by assuming responsibility, volunteering for new projects, or recommending ways to improve your current position. It is a display of initiative and leadership potential that can qualify you for promotions into operations management roles.

Get Qualified as an Operations Manager

Operations Management Essentials, HVAC Operations Diploma, Cloud-Based Operations Management,  Airport Operations Management Training

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Should You Become an Operations Manager?

Becoming an operations manager offers the opportunity to lead business processes, improve productivity, and contribute to organisational success. If you enjoy managing teams, solving problems, and enhancing business operations, this role provides a challenging and rewarding career path.

Is Operations Management a Good Career Choice for You?

Yes, if you thrive on responsibility, enjoy optimising processes, and have a keen interest in business operations and leadership. Operations management offers a variety of roles across multiple industries, providing opportunities for growth, skill development, and the chance to make a significant impact on a business’s success.

What Are the Salary Prospects for Operations Managers in the UK?

Operations managers in the UK can earn between £25,000 and £35,000 per year for entry-level roles. With experience, salaries can rise to £35,000 to £50,000 or more, depending on the industry, size of the company, and level of responsibility. Senior roles and those in specialised sectors can command salaries of £60,000 or more. Bonuses, benefits, and profit-sharing schemes may also be part of the compensation package, especially in larger organisations or senior roles.

Which Qualifications Are Necessary for a Career in Operations Management?

While formal qualifications aren’t always mandatory, having a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is highly beneficial. Additional qualifications, such as a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA), Lean Six Sigma certification, or PRINCE2 project management certification, can enhance your prospects and opportunities for senior roles.

Do You Need Experience to Start a Career as an Operations Manager?

Yes, experience in operations, management, or related business roles is crucial. Starting in entry-level positions like Operations Assistant, Team Leader, or Project Coordinator helps build the necessary skills and knowledge in business operations, team management, and process improvement.

What Is the Career Outlook for Operations Managers?

Operations managers are in demand across a range of industries, including manufacturing, logistics, retail, healthcare, and finance. The need for efficient business processes, cost reduction, and quality control means that opportunities are expected to grow. Operations managers with strong leadership, process improvement, and financial skills are well-positioned for career growth.

What Are the Career Progression Options for Operations Managers?

Experienced operations managers can advance to senior roles such as Senior Operations Manager, Operations Director, or Chief Operations Officer (COO). Specialising in a specific area like supply chain management, logistics, production, or project management can also open up more advanced career paths.

What Are the Exit Options and Opportunities Beyond Operations Management?

Skills gained as an operations manager—such as strategic planning, leadership, problem-solving, and process optimization—are transferable to other roles in management and business. Career options include business consultant, supply chain manager, project manager, logistics manager, or transitioning into senior leadership positions within an organisation.