Ultimate Guide to Operations Management: Skills, Salary, and Courses

5 min readJul 4, 2024

In today’s fast-paced business world, the demand for skilled operations managers is skyrocketing. Companies across various industries are seeking professionals who can streamline processes, boost productivity, and drive growth. If you are interested in pursuing a career in operations management, then this blog is for you.

We will delve into what operations management entails, the essential skills required, career prospects, salary expectations, and the best online courses to get you started. Whether you’re aiming to advance your career or considering a new direction, mastering operations management can open doors to a wealth of opportunities. Keep reading to discover how you can stay ahead in this high-demand profession.

What is Operations Management?

Operations management is the administration of business practices aimed at ensuring maximum efficiency within a company. It involves the conversion of materials and labor into goods and services as efficiently as possible to maximize profit. The role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, from managing the supply chain and logistics to overseeing the production process and ensuring that products meet quality standards.

Professional operations managers optimize processes to reduce costs and improve productivity. They must balance various elements, including technology, resources, and personnel, to achieve organizational goals. To build a career in operations management, there are some specific requirements, ranging from educational prerequisites to skills. Let’s explore them in detail in the next section.

Education and Certification

While a bachelor’s degree in business administration, engineering, or a related field is often the minimum requirement, many employers prefer candidates with advanced degrees or certifications. Some notable certifications include:

Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM): APICS offers this certification, which focuses on production and inventory control. It is a great way to build a career in inventory management.
Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP): This certification covers the entire supply chain process and is also offered by APICS.
Project Management Professional (PMP): Offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), this PMP certification is valuable for those involved in project management within operations.
Lean Six Sigma Certification: Recognized globally, this Six Sigma certification demonstrates expertise in process improvement methodologies.

Essential Operations Management Skills

To excel in operations management, one must possess a blend of technical and soft skills. Here are the skills that you must focus on if you want to be part of this career:

Technical Skills

Process Improvement: Knowledge of methodologies like Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen to streamline operations and eliminate waste.
Supply Chain Management: Understanding the intricacies of the supply chain, including procurement, logistics, and inventory management.
Data Analysis: Proficiency in using data analytics tools to interpret performance metrics and make informed decisions.
Project Management: Ability to plan, execute, and oversee projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.
Information Technology: Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems and other software that support operations management.

Soft Skills

Leadership: The capacity to lead and motivate teams to achieve operational goals.
Communication: Effective communication skills to coordinate with different departments and stakeholders.
Problem-solving: Strong analytical skills to identify issues and implement effective solutions.
Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time efficiently to meet deadlines.
Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing conditions and new technologies.

Operations Management Career

A career in operations management offers diverse opportunities across various industries, including manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and logistics. Operations managers play a vital role in ensuring that businesses run smoothly and efficiently. Here’s what you need to know about pursuing a career in this field:

Job Roles

Operations Manager: Responsible for overseeing the production of goods and services, ensuring efficiency and quality.
Supply Chain Manager: Manages the end-to-end supply chain process, from procurement to distribution.
Logistics Manager: Focuses on the transportation and storage of goods, optimizing logistics operations.
IT Operations Manager: This position focuses specifically on IT operations management, involving the administration and management of an organization’s information technology infrastructure.
Production Manager: Oversees the manufacturing process, ensuring products are produced on time and meet quality standards.
Quality Assurance Manager: Ensures that products and services meet specified quality standards through continuous monitoring and improvement.

Career Growth

Operations management offers a clear path for career progression. Entry-level positions, such as operations analyst or assistant manager, can lead to more senior roles like operations manager, director of operations, and eventually, chief operating officer (COO). With experience and continuous learning, operations managers can advance to executive-level positions, influencing strategic decisions within an organization.

Operations Management Salary

Salaries in operations management vary based on factors such as experience, education, industry, and location. Here’s a general overview of salary expectations:

Entry-Level Positions: On average, operations analysts salary can range from $40,000 to $70,000 annually.
Mid-Level Positions: An experienced operations manager’s salary can vary from $60,000 to $120,000 per year.
Senior-Level Positions: Senior roles, such as directors of operations, can command salaries ranging from $100,000 to $150,000 or more.

Industries with high demand for operations management professionals, such as technology, healthcare, and manufacturing, often offer higher salaries and better benefits.

Online Operations Management Courses: Recommendations

Enhancing your skills in operations management is crucial for career advancement. Numerous online courses cater to different aspects of operations management, offering flexibility and accessibility. Here are some of the top operations management courses:

Operations Management: Strategy and Quality Management for the Digital Age by Coursera is offered in collaboration with the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The course integrates the impact of digital technologies (e.g., big data, automation) on operations strategy and quality management. Moreover, it covers essential frameworks like Lean Six Sigma and Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) for process optimization.
Six Sigma Green Belt Certification Course by Whizlabs is a practice course to prepare you for the professional Six Sigma Green Belt certification. It will help you understand the DMAIC phases (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) relevant to this certification level.
Professional Certificate in Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification by edX is offered in collaboration with Technical University Munich. It is considered one of the top options for acquiring Green Belt knowledge. The course provides a comprehensive understanding of Lean Six Sigma fundamentals, covering DMAIC methodology, statistical tools, and quality principles.
Six Sigma Black Belt Specialization by Coursera goes beyond the DMAIC process typically covered in Green Belt programs. It delves into Design for Six Sigma (DFSS), change management, and team leadership, all essential for Black Belts. The instructors thoroughly explain Six Sigma principles and tools, ensuring a solid understanding of exam preparation and practical application.
Manufacturing Systems I by edX is offered in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. This instructor-paced course offers live classes by international faculty. The topics covered in this course will provide the basis for learners to continue into the manufacturing field in roles such as operations manager or supply chain manager.

Conclusion

Operations management is a dynamic and rewarding field that plays a crucial role in the success of any organization. By understanding the core concepts, developing essential skills, and pursuing relevant education and certifications, you can build a successful career in this field. Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance your career, the opportunities in operations management are vast and varied.

Investing in operations management courses online can provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel. With the right combination of technical and soft skills, along with a commitment to continuous learning, you can achieve significant career growth and enjoy a lucrative salary in operations management.