An operations manager has four areas of responsibility: supervising staff, project management, working with clients, and acting as a resource. Operations manager is a role found in a wide range of industries. It is most typically found in business storefront or retail operations. The primary role of the operations manager is to resolve daily issues and work staff to improve customer service.

In order to become an operations manager, most employers require either a university or college degree. Typically, the degree is in business, finance or management. A university program is usually four to five years in length and a college program is two to three years.

The admission requirements to these programs include high school courses in business math, technology, and English. Workplace performance is more valued than academic credentials when looking to advance your career in operations management. Be prepared to put in the extra effort so you will be considered for more senior positions.

People who enjoy interacting with others, are natural leaders, and have excellent interpersonal skills find this type of position rewarding. There is a level of instruction or guidance as part of this position that is a new skill for most managers. Oral communication, conflict resolution, and team building skills are highly valued in this role.

Operations managers are required to supervise or manage teams of operations staff. The number of individuals and the breadth of areas they are responsible for vary by industry. For example, an operations manager for a large grocery store may be responsible for the produce, grocery, and baked goods department. The same type of manager in a smaller, boutique shop may be responsible for the daily operation and management of the whole store.

Project management forms an important part of the operations manager’s day. In this role, he or she is responsible for project planning, creating time lines, organizing regular meetings, working with contractors, and keeping the team on track. Projects can include physical renovations to the space, changes of merchandise, or the launching of a new product.

Interacting with the client is an important part of the role of operations manager. He or she is typically involved in conflict resolution, providing guidance on store policy, working with unsatisfied customers, and dealing with complaints. In this role, conflict resolution and effective communication is critical.

The ability to work well with a wide range of people, resolve problems quickly, and sharing information and experience with staff are important skills. Many operations managers find that additional courses in team building, effective communication, and mentoring can be very helpful. The dynamic of any team is based on the behavior of the team leader.