Career Guide
Operations manager
If you possess a talent for coordinating processes, demonstrate strong organizational skills, excel in optimizing resources and have a keen ability for overseeing multiple projects, you may have a future in the operations manager career.
If you possess a talent for coordinating processes, demonstrate strong organizational skills, excel in optimizing resources and have a keen ability for overseeing multiple projects, you may have a future in the operations manager career.
Career overview
Operations managers are responsible for ensuring that various departments within an organization — including companies, government agencies and non-profits — function efficiently and cohesively. They streamline processes, manage day-to-day activities and implement strategic initiatives to enhance productivity and profitability. By overseeing supply chain operations, coordinating logistics and optimizing workflow, they help maintain the smooth operation of an organization. Additionally, operations managers monitor key performance indicators (KPIs), manage budgets and work closely with team leaders to resolve problems and drive continuous improvement. Their work is pivotal in aligning operational practices with the goals and objectives of an organization — whether it be a company, city, county or non-profit —to provide tangible business value.
There were over 3.6 million general and operations managers in the national workforce in 2023, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Operations managers are needed in both the public and private sectors. As an operations manager, you can work across industries including employment placement agencies; retailers, especially in cosmetics and beauty supplies; couriers and delivery services; colleges, universities and professional schools and more.
The job outlook for operations managers is promising, with steady growth projected in various industries. The demand for operations managers is driven by the growing need for organizations to enhance operational efficiency and manage complex operations in an increasingly competitive market. As institutions continue to evolve and expand, the expertise of operations managers in streamlining logistics, optimizing resource allocation and implementing innovative processes will be crucial for ensuring success and sustainability.
What to expect
Salary range
$65 - 160K
General and operations managers, including business managers, within the 25th and 75th percentiles earned between $65,180 and $160,290 in 2023, according to BLS nationwide statistics.[1]
Projected growth (2023-2033)
210,400 jobs
Job opportunities for general and operations managers, including business managers, are projected to grow by 6% nationally between 2023 and 2033, BLS reports.[1]
Education required
Bachelor's degree
Related job titles
Business manager
Supply chain manager
Logistics manager
Production manager
Project manager
[1] The salary ranges are not specific to students or graduates of University of Phoenix. The salary ranges, job opportunities and outcomes presented represent the larger job category, which includes the particular job title. Actual outcomes vary based on multiple factors, including prior work experience, geographic location and other factors specific to the individual. University of Phoenix does not guarantee employment, salary level or career advancement. BLS data is geographically based. Information for a specific state/city can be researched on the BLS website. The BLS Projected Growth for 2023-2033 is published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This data reflects the BLS’ projections of national (not local) conditions. These data points are not specific to University of Phoenix students or graduates.
Challenges
Being an operations manager comes with its fair share of challenges that require adaptability and strategic thinking. One main challenge is juggling multiple responsibilities simultaneously, as operations managers often oversee several departments and projects at once. This role demands exceptional time management skills and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively. Another significant challenge is maintaining clear communication across various teams and departments, ensuring everyone is aligned and working towards the same objectives. Operations managers also face the pressure of meeting performance targets and staying within budget, which requires a delicate balance between cost-efficiency and quality assurance. Additionally, navigating the fast pace of technological advancements and industry changes means that operations managers must continuously stay informed and adapt processes accordingly to maintain a competitive edge, while preparing employees for such shifts.
Advantages
While challenges are an inherent part of the role, there are numerous advantages that come with being an operations manager. One of the primary advantages of being an operations manager is the opportunity to play a crucial role in shaping the efficiency and effectiveness of an organization. Being an operations manager can be a fulfilling position as you recognize that your strategic decisions can directly influence productivity, profitability and overall business growth. This role often involves solving complex problems, which can be intellectually rewarding for individuals who thrive on challenges and innovation. Additionally, operations managers typically enjoy a diverse work environment, engaging with various departments and gaining insights into different areas of the business. This exposure provides a valuable breadth of experience and knowledge, making operations managers vital assets to their companies. Furthermore, due to the critical nature of their work, operations managers often command competitive salaries and benefit from stable career prospects due to possessing skills highly sought-after across industries.
What to expect
Salary range
$65 - 160K
$65K
$160K
General and operations managers, including business managers, within the 25th and 75th percentiles earned between $65,180 and $160,290 in 2023, according to BLS nationwide statistics.[1]
Projected growth (2023-2033)
210,400 jobs
Job opportunities for general and operations managers, including business managers, are projected to grow by 6% nationally between 2023 and 2033, BLS reports.[1]
Education required
Bachelor's degree
Related job titles
Business manager
Supply chain manager
Logistics manager
Production manager
Project manager
[1] The salary ranges are not specific to students or graduates of University of Phoenix. The salary ranges, job opportunities and outcomes presented represent the larger job category, which includes the particular job title. Actual outcomes vary based on multiple factors, including prior work experience, geographic location and other factors specific to the individual. University of Phoenix does not guarantee employment, salary level or career advancement. BLS data is geographically based. Information for a specific state/city can be researched on the BLS website. The BLS Projected Growth for 2023-2033 is published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This data reflects the BLS’ projections of national (not local) conditions. These data points are not specific to University of Phoenix students or graduates.
About our source
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is an agency of the United States Department of Labor that serves as part of the U.S. Federal Statistical System. Find out more: http://www.bls.gov/bls/about-bls.htm
In-demand skills
In today's competitive job market, possessing the career-relevant skills can help you set yourself apart. For operations manager roles, employers seek candidates who not only exhibit expertise in process management and strategic planning but also bring a diverse set of complementary skills that enhance organizational efficiency and growth. These are top skills currently sought for in candidates for operations manager roles:
- Operations management
- Continuous improvement process
- Project management
- Process improvement
- Key performance indicators (KPIs)
- Auditing
- Warehousing
- Lean manufacturing
- Operational excellence
- Inventory control
- Operations
- Management
- Customer service
- Planning
- Sales
- Microsoft Office (i.e. Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word)
- SAP applications (e.g. ERP, CRM, PLM, SCM, HRMS, BI)
- Operations systems
- Warehouse management systems
- Inventory management systems
Soft skills
Soft skills are interpersonal and personal attributes that enable individuals to interact effectively and harmoniously with others. Key soft skills essential for operations managers include leadership, effective communication, problem-solving and coaching.
Education and experience
If a career as an operations manager seems like a suitable fit, there are academic milestones, credentials and practical experiences that can set you on the right track. Here are some key steps you can take as you embark on your journey towards becoming an operations manager:
Typically, operations managers hold at least a bachelor's degree in business administration, management, logistics or a related field. This foundational education provides essential knowledge in business principles, financial management and organizational behavior, which are critical for understanding the complexities of operations management.
Start by working in entry-level positions within operations or allied departments, where you can learn the intricacies of supply chain management, process optimization and team coordination. As you gain experience, take on roles with increasing responsibility to hone your strategic planning and decision-making capabilities.
Focus on building a well-rounded skill set that includes both technical and soft skills. Proficiency in process management, continuous improvement and project management is key, while strong leadership, communication and problem-solving abilities will help you effectively manage teams and drive organizational change.
Career enhancement
Achieving your initial career objectives often marks the beginning of a thrilling professional path. As an aspiring operations manager, committing to continuous education is essential to expand your expertise and abilities, equipping you for new and fulfilling opportunities that may lie ahead.
Once you've gained experience as an operations manager, you may feel ready for your next career step. Operations managers can move up the ranks to take on senior titles, such as director of operations or chief operating officer (COO). You could also transition into consulting, entrepreneurship or specialized fields, such as supply chain management and quality assurance, leveraging expertise in process optimization and strategic planning to explore new career possibilities and achieve professional growth.
Here are some tips for advancing within the operations management career path:
- Pursue further education: Stay competitive by earning a master’s degree in business administration or management. Or complete industry certifications in areas like project management or Six Sigma to enhance your skills.
- Network with industry professionals: Attend industry conferences, join professional organizations and participate in networking events to build connections and learn from peers.
- Strengthen leadership skills: Enhance your ability to lead teams by taking leadership development courses and seeking opportunities to manage projects or departments.
- Stay updated with industry trends: Regularly read industry publications, attend seminars and follow thought leaders to keep up-to-date on the latest trends and innovations.
- Participate in professional organizations: Engage actively in organizations relevant to your field to access resources, workshop and forums that can aid your professional development.
- Research emerging software and technology: Maintain an awareness of specialized software used in different industries, as well as emerging operational software platforms and how artificial intelligence is changing operational practices (e.g., in automation, inventory management, customer relationship management).
Phoenixes in the workplace
Meet Judith F., an alum whose unwavering curiosity led her back to school as a single mother of two. Her higher education helped to prepare her for her current role as a High Touch Operations Manager at a global tech company, where she inspires others with her innovative problem-solving skills.
Judith F. | BSB 2016 | MSIOP 2019 | Future DM
Phoenixes in the workplace
Meet Judith F., an alum whose unwavering curiosity led her back to school as a single mother of two. Her higher education helped to prepare her for her current role as a High Touch Operations Manager at a global tech company, where she inspires others with her innovative problem-solving skills.
Programs
At University of Phoenix, we offer several undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs that align to the operations manager career outcome. Our flexible approach to learning means you can integrate higher education into your life, advancing one course at a time every five to six weeks. Explore our offerings to find out which program is right for you.
Bachelor of Science in Business
The Bachelor of Science in Business (BSB) undergraduate degree program is designed to prepare graduates with the requisite knowledge, skills and abilities to effectively apply various business principles and tools in an organizational setting. The BSB foundation is designed to bridge the gap between theory and practical application, while examining the areas of accounting, communications, diversity and inclusion, economics, finance, business law and ethics, management, marketing, organizational behavior, business analytics and information systems.
In this program, you’ll learn how to:
- Integrate decision-making skills to address business needs
- Integrate business concepts and principles to advance organizational goals
- Analyze interrelationships among distinct functional areas of an organization
- Analyze logistics involved in global business operations
To earn this degree, you will be required to complete 120 credits through courses in general education, core topics and elective subjects. The length of this program is 47 months, and each course is five weeks long.
The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) has accredited the following programs offered by the College of Business and Information Technology or the College of Doctoral Studies.
- Associate of Arts with a concentration in Accounting Fundamentals[1]
- Associate of Arts with a concentration in Business Fundamentals
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
- Bachelor of Science in Business
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Management
- Master of Science in Accountancy[1]
- Doctor of Business Administration
- Doctor of Management
[1] These programs are not available for new enrollments.
For additional information, visit acbsp.org.
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
8101 College Blvd #100
Overland Park, KS 66210
Bachelor of Science in Management
The Bachelor of Science in Management (BSM) degree program is designed to develop the professional knowledge and skills of cross-functional managers in an organization. The BSM degree enhances skills necessary for improved organizational effectiveness in a dynamic and evolving workplace. The program focuses on the development of management roles and emphasizes skills necessary to align resources, and to improve communication, productivity and effectiveness.
In this program, you’ll learn how to:
- Evaluate management principles necessary for organizational effectiveness
- Evaluate the effectiveness of processes used to achieve organizational goals
- Integrate key problem-solving strategies in the analysis and recommendation of business decisions
- Analyze interrelationships among distinct functional areas of an organization
To earn this degree, you will be required to complete 120 credits through courses in general education, core topics and elective subjects. The length of this program is 47 months, and each course is five weeks long.
Bachelor of Science in Public Administration
The Bachelor of Science in Public Administration program provides students with skills related to communication, ethics, civic leadership, law and policy, research and planning, public finance and budgeting, public programs and human resources to positively impact communities. This program is a suitable option for individuals looking to prepare for careers in government at the federal, state and local levels or nonprofit entities.
In this program, you’ll learn how to:
- Analyze public administration concepts
- Apply public administration management practices
- Analyze research methodologies for public administration
- Apply the ethical standards of public administration
- Examine fiduciary practices in public administration
To earn this degree, you will be required to complete 120 credits through courses in general education, core topics and elective subjects. The length of this program is 47 months, and each course is five weeks long.
Master of Business Administration
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) program prepares students in the functional areas of business allowing them to develop managerial skills necessary to be effective in a rapidly changing business environment. The program is designed for students with an interest in entering or advancing their careers in business and reflects current research of leadership competencies, as well as graduate business standards as reflected by existing international accreditation agencies.
In this program, you’ll learn how to:
- Integrate decision-making skills to deliver organizational value in dynamic environments
- Create strategies for sustainable organizational success that integrates the organization's mission and vision with societal values
- Synthesize leadership skills to foster innovation and facilitate change in a dynamic business environment
- Evaluate the global environment to sustain an organization's competitive advantage
- Integrate managerial skills to support strategic execution in a rapidly changing business environment
To earn this degree, you will need to complete 33 credits through 11 core courses. This program is 16 months long. Each course is six weeks in length.
Master of Business Administration (Competency-based)
We also offer a Master of Business Administration Competency-based program. It is important to note that competency-based programs are not the right fit for every student. If you learn well in a structured learning environment with regular instruction, the traditional MBA may be a better option for you. The MBA competency-based program is best for students who prefer to work independently — with faculty guidance — and manage their time effectively, while saving time and money on their degree. The length of this program is less than 12 months. Learn more about our competency-based programs.
Master of Management
The Master of Management degree program promotes the development of management competencies through the practical application of theory, business and management diagnostics and the formulation of creative management and consulting solutions. Students will acquire a wide range of tools, concepts and methodologies to design, conduct and follow through on successful leadership and entrepreneurship practices. In addition, students will be able to actively develop their interpersonal and business-related management skills in order to foster leadership, creative thinking, collegiality and teamwork ability in an international context. The Master of Management will provide students with firsthand knowledge of the tools and techniques used by successful consultants in the competitive leadership, entrepreneurship and management industry.
In this program, you’ll learn how to:
- Synthesize management functions to support attainment of goals in a variety of organizations
- Align strategic management competencies with organizational needs to foster innovation and facilitate change within dynamic business environments
- Synthesize leadership skills to support strategic execution in rapidly changing business environments
- Evaluate business research and analytics to support accountability in planning and decision-making in a variety of business environments
- Integrate business law, regulations and ethics in the management of diverse organizations
To earn this degree, you will need to complete 33 credits through 11 core courses. The length of this program is 16 months. Each course is six weeks in length.
The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) has accredited the following programs offered by the College of Business and Information Technology or the College of Doctoral Studies.
- Associate of Arts with a concentration in Accounting Fundamentals[2]
- Associate of Arts with a concentration in Business Fundamentals
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
- Bachelor of Science in Business
- Master of Business Administration
- Master of Management
- Master of Science in Accountancy[2]
- Doctor of Business Administration
- Doctor of Management
[2] These programs are not available for new enrollments.
For additional information, visit acbsp.org.
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
8101 College Blvd #100
Overland Park, KS 66210
Small Business Management and Entrepreneurship Certificate (Undergraduate)
The Small Business and Entrepreneurship certificate provides students with the skills necessary to establish and operate a small business or entrepreneurial enterprise through the successful management of planning, marketing, financial management and integrated business operations. Upon completion of this program, students will be able to examine small business marketing opportunities, identify innovative small business strategies, evaluate financial management decisions and address the challenges and opportunities specific to small business management and entrepreneurship.
In this program, you’ll learn how to:
- Evaluate business opportunities and risks to make sound financial decisions
- Apply innovation and creativity to solving entrepreneurial business opportunities
- Apply management concepts and principles to launch an entrepreneurial business
This certificate requires you to complete 18 credits and is seven months long. Each course is five weeks in length.
Leadership and Management Certificate (Undergraduate)
The Certificate in Leadership and Management program is designed to prepare students with the knowledge, skills and values necessary to effectively lead others within a variety of organizational settings and situations. The program includes content related to organizational leadership, business strategy development, decision making, change management, effective communication, performance improvement and entrepreneurship.
In this program, you’ll learn how to:
- Synthesize leadership concepts and practices in support of organizational mission and values
- Integrate decision-making skills to advance organizational goals
This certificate requires you to complete 18 credits and is seven months long. Each course is five weeks in length.
General Management Certificate (Undergraduate)
The Management certificate emphasizes managing human and fiscal resources within the structure, culture, and missions of any organization. The program provides students with the opportunity to examine the areas of innovation in business, human resource management, change management, organizational negotiations, and strategic management. Students will integrate advanced topics in management through real-world business application.
In this program, you’ll learn how to:
- Apply the principles and practices of management in a competitive business environment to advance organizational goals
- Apply a creative problem-solving approach to address organizational challenges
- Apply business knowledge and skills to manage human and fiscal resources within an organization
This certificate requires you to complete 18 credits and is seven months long. Each course is five weeks in length.
If you choose to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Business, you can also earn associate degrees and certificates along the way:
Students may find this option worthwhile as it can prepare you for career opportunities aligned with both the chosen program and the Bachelor of Science in Business degree.
Additionally, if you choose to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Business, Bachelor of Science in Management or Bachelor of Science in Public Administration, you can also get a head start on a graduate-level education. While completing a BSB or BSM, you have the option to take three graduate-level courses from our Master of Business Administration or Master of Management programs to count as elective credit towards your master’s degree.
Students earning a BSPA may also take up to three select master’s courses to earn credit towards a Master of Public Administration as an undergraduate.
Graduate students earning a Master of Business Administration or Master of Management degree can continue to level up by substituting up to three graduate-level courses with specific doctoral-level courses to apply to a doctoral degree.
How can University of Phoenix support me in pursuing my career goals?
Students and graduates can access our Career Navigator tools, which can help you evaluate career options, track career-relevant skills and discover job postings suited to your needs. From resumé building and interview preparation to networking and mentorship, University of Phoenix offers career services for life to all students and graduates. Dive deeper into our career services, resources and tools to find out how we can help you reach your goals.
