How to Become an Operations Manager?

Operations managers usually have a bachelor's degree in business administration or a related field like management or accounting. Getting a good education can help you improve your chances of getting noticed by an employer. People with extensive experience can sometimes get jobs as operations managers as well.

Future operations managers often take courses in business communication along with management, accounting, statistics, mathematical modeling, cash flow management, and similar subjects. These courses can help you understand how to run a business efficiently. You'll learn about marketing, law, finance, and more.

For larger companies and higher operations management positions, an MBA or Master of Business Administration degree is usually preferable. These degrees usually take about a year to complete, and they help students learn more about relationship development, leadership, consumer psychology, and organizational behavior. This knowledge will be vital as you lead the operations and processes of a business.

The ability to communicate effectively and make decisions quickly within a large, diverse organization is essential. ASCM, the Association for Supply Chain Management, offers a variety of certification programs in production and inventory management. You can also get the Certified Manager accreditation from the Institute of Certified Professional Managers. Certifications often require a course, an exam, and regular continuing education.

Many companies look for operations managers with relevant certifications from ASCM and other organizations. They often use software to filter out applications from candidates without certification, making this qualification essential for getting someone to take a look at your resume. Other than the General Manager certification, the exact certifications you should get depend on the industry. For example, an operations manager working for a company that installs heaters and air conditioners would need different certifications than an operations manager in the hospitality industry.

Before you become an operations manager, you should build your experience with a job as a receptionist, cashier, accounting clerk, or any other position. Volunteer for additional responsibilities to gain experience and let your employer know you have the leadership skills needed for management. When you feel ready, you can search for an entry-level management role, such as assistant manager or department head.

You can also apply for branch manager, operations assistant, or operations coordinator roles. Spending some time in one of these positions can help you gain the skills you need to get an operations manager job. You'll also get to learn more about the industry you want to work in.