A career in operations management can offer numerous benefits for those interested in this field. Operations managers are responsible for ensuring that an organization’s operations are efficient, effective, and meet customer needs. Some of the benefits of entering a career in operations management include the opportunity to work with diverse teams, the ability to make a significant impact on an organization’s success, and the potential for career growth and advancement. Additionally, operations managers often work in fast-paced, dynamic environments that require constant problem-solving and critical thinking skills. This can make the job challenging and rewarding, as operations managers are often faced with new and complex challenges that require innovative solutions. Finally, operations management is a field that is in high demand, particularly in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. This means that there are often ample job opportunities and room for career growth and advancement for those who enter this field. Overall, a career in operations management can offer numerous benefits, including the opportunity to work in a dynamic and challenging environment, make a significant impact on an organization’s success, and enjoy a rewarding and fulfilling career.

Operations managers play a critical role in ensuring that an organization’s operations are efficient, effective, and meet customer needs. They are responsible for overseeing all aspects of an organization’s operations, from production and inventory management to logistics and supply chain management. Some of the key roles and responsibilities of operations managers include:

• Planning and organizing: Operations managers are responsible for developing and implementing operational plans and strategies that support the organization’s goals and objectives. This involves working closely with other departments and stakeholders to identify and prioritize operational needs and develop plans to address them.
• Resource management: Operations managers are responsible for managing resources, including personnel, equipment, and materials, to ensure that operations are running smoothly and efficiently. This involves developing and implementing processes and procedures for managing resources, as well as monitoring resource usage to identify areas for improvement.
• Quality control: Operations managers are responsible for ensuring that products or services meet the organization’s quality standards. This involves implementing quality control processes and procedures, monitoring product or service quality, and taking corrective action when necessary.
• Process improvement: Operations managers are responsible for identifying opportunities for process improvement and implementing initiatives to streamline operations and reduce costs. This involves analyzing operational data, identifying bottlenecks and inefficiencies, and developing and implementing process improvement initiatives.
• Risk management: Operations managers are responsible for identifying and mitigating operational risks, such as supply chain disruptions, equipment failure, or regulatory compliance issues. This involves developing and implementing risk management processes and procedures, as well as monitoring and assessing risk on an ongoing basis.

Overall, operations managers play a critical role in ensuring that an organization’s operations are running smoothly and efficiently. They are responsible for managing resources, implementing quality control processes, identifying opportunities for process improvement, and mitigating operational risks. Operations managers must possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as excellent communication and leadership skills to effectively manage teams and collaborate with other departments and stakeholders.

Here are some of the main types of skills and knowledge required of operations managers:

• Strategic planning: Operations managers must be able to develop and implement strategic plans and initiatives that support the organization’s goals and objectives.
• Process improvement: Operations managers must have strong analytical skills and the ability to identify inefficiencies in operational processes and develop initiatives to streamline operations and reduce costs.
• Resource management: Operations managers must have strong organizational skills and the ability to manage personnel, equipment, and materials to ensure that operations are running efficiently.
• Quality control: Operations managers must have a strong understanding of quality control processes and procedures and the ability to ensure that products or services meet the organization’s quality standards.
• Risk management: Operations managers must have a strong understanding of operational risks and the ability to develop and implement processes and procedures to mitigate these risks.
• Leadership and communication: Operations managers must have strong leadership and communication skills to effectively manage teams, collaborate with other departments and stakeholders, and ensure that everyone is working towards common goals.
• Technical skills: Operations managers must have a strong understanding of the technical aspects of the operations they are managing, whether that involves manufacturing processes, logistics, or supply chain management.

Overall, operations managers must possess a diverse range of skills and knowledge, including strategic planning, process improvement, resource management, quality control, risk management, leadership and communication, and technical skills. These skills and knowledge are critical to ensuring that an organization’s operations are running smoothly and efficiently, and to driving ongoing growth and success.

Here are some examples of typical operations management jobs:

• Production Manager: A production manager is responsible for overseeing the production process and ensuring that production targets are met. They may also be responsible for quality control, managing production staff, and ensuring that safety standards are met.
• Supply Chain Manager: A supply chain manager is responsible for managing the flow of goods and materials from suppliers to customers. They may be involved in procurement, logistics, inventory management, and distribution.
• Operations Director: An operations director is responsible for overseeing all aspects of an organization’s operations, including manufacturing, logistics, supply chain management, and quality control. They may also be involved in strategic planning and business development.
• Process Improvement Manager: A process improvement manager is responsible for identifying inefficiencies in operational processes and developing initiatives to streamline operations and improve efficiency. They may also be responsible for monitoring process performance and making adjustments as needed.
• Logistics Manager: A logistics manager is responsible for managing the movement of goods and materials, including transportation, warehousing, and distribution. They may also be involved in inventory management and supply chain optimization.
• Quality Control Manager: A quality control manager is responsible for ensuring that products or services meet the organization’s quality standards. They may be involved in developing quality control processes and procedures, monitoring quality performance, and making recommendations for improvement.

Overall, operations management jobs can be found in a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, logistics, retail, healthcare, and technology. These jobs typically require strong analytical, leadership, and communication skills, as well as a solid understanding of operational processes and procedures.

Global Career Development Pathways for Operations Management Professionals

Global offers 3 career development options for Operations Management professionals:

Professional Certificates – which comprise 3 to 4 CPD certified courses in specific skill sets, offered at different levels of management, to support your career development plans. Assessment is based on multiple choice quizzes. On completion, participants are awarded Digital Credentials on Global’s blockchain verified digital platform – share your skills and expertise on social media, and with employers.

Certified Professional Credentials – which assure employers of your professional competence in specific Operations Management specialisms and roles. Certified Professional Credentials comprise 8 courses, and require completion of a final exam which assesses learner competence on the Global Operations Management Body of Knowledge. Three levels of Certified Professional credentials are offered: Advanced Certificate (or entry level), Diploma (or management level), and Advanced Diploma for senior management or specialist level. On completion, participants are awarded Digital Credentials on Global’s blockchain verified digital platform – share your skills and expertise on social media, and with employers.

CPD Certificate Courses – single courses which enable the learner to develop specific skills and knowledge relevant to their career aspirations. Learners can select courses as they need and credits can contribute towards a professional credential.