Operations management plays an important role for many organisations across industries. Operations managers are often required to have a thorough and up-to-date understanding of their industry, as well as the specific functions of their organisation. In this article, we cover the role of operations managers, the key skills required of successful operations professionals and why operations managers benefit from engaging with CPD to maintain a current and effective skillset.
What is Operations Management and why it’s important?
Operations managers are responsible for the structures that produce and deliver the goods and services of an organisation. Operation managers are also in charge of overseeing the internal systems required in the running of an organisation. The aim of operations managers is to make sure these systems are as efficient and effective as possible.
It is important for organisations to maintain good and consistent operations management in order to run a sustainable business and scale operations. Effective operations management is an iterative practice – meaning it involves consistently analysing data to look for ways to innovate, refine and improve operational structures. The fundamental goal is developing internal and external systems that will achieve increased profit and overall organisation success.
Key Skills and Expertise for Successful Operations Managers
Operations managers need to be competent planners, organisers and learners in order to provide value to an organisation. Although by no means exhaustive, below are some key skills and expertise that an organisation will require of their operation management employees.
Industry knowledge:
A detailed understanding of their given industry is crucial for operations managers. A knowledge of industry-specific operational standards and practices can help an operations manager add value to an organisation’s internal systems and increase efficiency in the production and distribution processes. Industry knowledge can also help operations managers identify competitive advantages to help the organisation excel in its field.
Staying up to date with trends and technology:
The role of an operations manager can be distinctive and unique depending on the demands of the organisation. A broad understanding of emerging trends and technological advancements is a key skill that can aid operations managers in implementing more efficient structures for an organisation. Examples of relevant trends and technology may include productive workspaces, systems that encourage agile leadership, and removing friction and weaknesses from the production and distribution of goods and services.
Research:
Developing reliable research methods is a fundamental contributing factor to the success of an operations manager. The ability to access and use relevant information, in often time sensitive situations, is at the core of the innovation and development necessary to implement effective operation structures.
Data analysis:
A strong understanding of data analysis can help an operations manager implement constructive and beneficial systems. Good data analysis helps an organisation understand its internal operations and the behaviour of its customers. For an operations manager, the ability to locate and manipulate data to identify areas for improvement within an organisation can be a valuable skill.
Management:
Management skills help operations managers be effective in their role. While operations management requires a variety of other important skills, these must all be applied in combination with effective management. Making sure employees understand and are satisfied with new systems, and using effective feedback structures to constructively respond to problems employees may be experiencing, are examples of key management skills for operations managers.
Operations management is a dynamic role which needs to continually adapt to changing technologies and industry trends. It is therefore important for operations professionals to display a commitment to lifelong learning, in order to develop and maintain the necessary skills to be successful.