What Does an Operations Manager Do?

Written by: Wilson College • Aug 12, 2024

An Operations Manager Presents Findings to the Operations Team.

Operations management involves implementing various business practices to improve an organization’s efficiency, productivity, and profitability. Efficient operations management aligns with company objectives and ensures a better quality product or service, improves overall customer satisfaction, increases profits, and reduces waste.

Individuals who are interested in becoming an operations manager should consider earning a degree in business management or a related field to develop the leadership skills and foundational knowledge to ensure effective operations for business success.

Operations Manager Job Description

Operations managers are executives who take on human resources (HR) duties at the highest level in the company. Their duties and responsibilities vary based on their work settings, which can span dozens of industries.

Work Settings for Operations Managers

Since companies in every industry can benefit from the expertise of an operations manager, their employment opportunities are many. Popular industries include retail, healthcare, finance, insurance, manufacturing, hospitality, and construction.

Most of the time, operations managers work in offices within their respective employers’ buildings or facilities. Sometimes, their work may require on-site engagement, especially in fields such as construction or with organizations that operate as networks, including hotels or healthcare facilities. They often work full time, though their hours can be irregular depending on the needs of the business and the unexpected issues that may arise.

What an Operations Manager Does: Duties and Responsibilities

Although their duties and responsibilities vary from one industry to the next, most operations managers will execute the following tasks regularly:

Develop and implement new processes and best practices
Oversee and manage an operations department or operational staff
Manage supply chains and inventory to be cost efficient
Collaborate with other departments and executives to ensure that operations meet the organization’s goals and mission
Evaluate team performance and provide feedback
Forecast future budgetary needs as well as develop and ensure adherence to approved budgets
Spearhead operational projects and initiate meaningful changes
Set short- and long-term organizational goals that align with business objectives
Collaborate and facilitate relationships with stakeholders and other partners
Oversee risk management initiatives to ensure the continued success of the business
Analyze market trends and align business strategies

Operations Manager Education, Experience, and Skill Requirements

Becoming an operations manager requires specific education, experience, and skills that can only be acquired and developed through education and experience.

Education and Experience

An undergraduate degree in business management is the entry-level education required to work as an operations manager. This program provides knowledge in areas such as finance, accounting, project management, human resources, logistics, organizational structure and planning, and information technology (IT). Many programs require internships, which can provide some of the experience required to obtain an entry-level business management position.

While a graduate degree isn’t required to work as an operations manager, most employers require their executives to have considerable work experience. Typically, smaller organizations may ask for candidates with at least five years of experience, but large and highly successful companies may demand 10 or more years of experience.

Operations managers may use numerous roles to fulfill employers’ experience requirements, including roles in human resources and finance departments. Experience working in project management, supply chain management, or logistics management may also apply.

Required Skills

Operations managers work in multifaceted, complex settings, so the more versatile their skills, the better equipped they’ll be for their roles. The following skills are critical for excelling in the role:

Communication: Operations managers must communicate with multiple departments, their own teams, stakeholders and investors, vendors and suppliers, and many other people. Oral and written communication skills are essential for the role.
Leadership: Leadership skills allow operations managers to make decisions that motivate their teams and help their companies reach their goals.
Organization: Organization allows for better resource coordination and task management, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations.
Financial Acumen: Strong knowledge of the principles of finance, including budgeting and forecasting, help operations managers make informed choices.
Problem-Solving: Complex issues arise often at the executive level, and good problem-solving skills allow for creative and effective solutions.
Attention to Detail: An eye for detail allows operations managers to pinpoint bottlenecks and inefficiencies, boosting revenue and productivity while mitigating unnecessary risk.
Growth Mindset: Staying focused on consistent improvement allows operations managers to constantly find new ways to improve processes.

Operations Manager Salary

The median annual salary for operations managers was $101,280 as of May 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The exact salary may vary due to factors such as industry, geographic location, work experience, and level of education. For example, the BLS reports that individuals who work in wholesale, construction, and manufacturing industries earned significantly more.

Change Organizations for the Better as an Operations Manager

Operations managers focus their efforts on efficiency and effectiveness, making their organizations more productive and cost-effective while minimizing risk. They’re among the key leaders of the company, ensuring that all the moving parts are optimized and thriving.

Wilson College Online’s business management programs prepare students for advanced roles in business by helping them build real-world management skills that employers seek. The following business programs are offered fully online:

Discover how Wilson College Online can help you develop the skills to help companies grow and thrive.

Recommended Readings

Management vs. Leadership: Similarities and Differences

What Can You Do With a Business Degree?

Master’s in Organizational Leadership vs. MBA

Sources:

Asana, 7 Functions of Operations Management (Plus the Skills You Need to Master Them)

Emeritus, “What Are the 10 Key Skills of a Successful Operations Manager?”

Indeed, How to Become an Operations Manager (With Salary and Job Outlook)

Indeed, “What Does an Operations Manager Do? (With Requirements)”

Indeed, “What Is Operations Management? (Plus Importance and Duties)”

Teal, What Is a Operations Manager?