Operations management is the process of planning, organising, and overseeing the activities within a company to ensure smooth and efficient workflows. It focuses on improving efficiency, managing resources, and delivering good results. At the core of this field is the operations manager, a professional who is responsible for coordinating daily activities, managing resources, and ensuring that organisational objectives are achieved. This role is essential as it contributes directly to the smooth functioning of a business and helps meet customer expectations.
In this article, we will explore what is an operations manager’s role and how to become an operations manager in South Africa. We will also discuss the skills required, educational qualifications, career pathways, and potential salary expectations for this dynamic role.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Role of an Operations Manager
Before we discuss how to become an operations manager, we must first understand the role of an operations manager. An operations manager ensures a business runs seamlessly and meets its goals. While their specific responsibilities may differ based on the industry or company, their primary focus is improving productivity and driving profitability. Below are some of the essential operations manager responsibilities:
1. Planning and Strategy Development
Operations managers create plans that align daily tasks with the company’s objectives. They analyse market trends, address internal issues, and develop action steps to achieve success.
2. Process Optimisation
They review and improve business processes to make them more efficient. This includes spotting delays, monitoring workflows, and implementing strategies to cut costs and increase productivity.
3. Resource Management
Operations managers manage resources like staff, equipment, and technology to keep things running smoothly. They forecast needs and handle constraints such as budget limits and available space.
4. Performance Monitoring and Reporting
They set and track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure process effectiveness. They create reports to identify areas for improvement and help guide decisions.
5. Quality Control
Another essential responsibility of the operations manager is to ensure products or services meet the required standards. Operations managers work with quality teams to meet customer needs and adjust to market changes.
Also, Know About What is Operations Management Here
Core Duties and Responsibilities of an Operations Manager
An operations manager ensures smooth business functions by overseeing the day-to-day operations and implementing strategies across the organisation. So, while you are about to understand how to become an operations manager, you must know the core duties and responsibilities of an operations manager. They are as follows:
- Create and maintain personnel records while ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Communicate with staff to improve performance and morale.
- Develop and review operational policies and strategies to align with business objectives.
- Manage budgets and allocate resources to support operational needs.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors and negotiate contracts.
- Monitor and ensure the product and service quality meet customer expectations.
- Track employee performance and provide coaching and training to improve productivity.
- Enforce health and safety guidelines to maintain a safe working environment.
- Collaborate with various departments to align operations with company goals.
- Continuously assess and improve processes to increase productivity and reduce costs.
- Identify operational risks and implement strategies to mitigate them.
Skills Required to Succeed as an Operations Manager
To succeed as an operations manager, it is important to have a mix of technical and interpersonal skills. These abilities help managers handle complex tasks, improve efficiency, and build good organisational relationships. So, while exploring how to become an operations manager, you must know the essential operation manager skills. The following are the skills needed for success in this role:
- Strong communication skills to ensure effective interaction with all team members and stakeholders.
- Leadership abilities to guide teams, make decisions, and motivate employees toward achieving company goals.
- Analytical thinking to identify trends, solve problems, and make data-driven decisions for process improvement.
- Project management expertise to handle multiple projects, track progress, and meet deadlines.
- Financial management skills to manage budgets, forecast expenses, and keep operations cost-effective.
- Technological skills to use software for managing inventory, tracking performance, and analysing data.
- Negotiation skills to secure good deals with suppliers and vendors.
Educational Requirements and Qualifications To Become Operations Manager
Aspirants exploring how to become an operations manager must know that they need a blend of qualifications and practical skills. These qualifications provide the essential knowledge needed to handle the responsibilities of an operations manager, from overseeing daily operations to managing teams. Below, we will outline the steps and essential qualifications needed to succeed in this career:
1) Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
The first step is to earn a bachelor’s degree in business administration or business management. This degree will give you a solid foundation in business functions like Finance, Human Resources, Project Management, and Logistics, which are crucial for managing operations.
2) Gain Work Experience
After earning your degree, gaining work experience is important. Many operations manager roles require a few years of experience in management or supervisory positions. Starting in entry-level management roles, such as retail or project management, helps you build leadership and operational skills.
3) Consider a Postgraduate Degree
While a bachelor’s degree is essential, many operations managers choose to further their education with a postgraduate degree such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management. With these advanced qualifications, aspirants stand out in the competitive job market and secure higher management roles.
Find Out Why Should I Study Business Management in South Africa
Career Path in Operations Management
Operations management offers many career opportunities for those skilled in improving processes and managing daily operations. That means a career in this field can lead to numerous roles, each focusing on a different aspect of business operations. Now that you know how to become an operations manager, let us explore career paths and related roles in operations management. They are as follows:
- Materials Manager
- Project Manager
- Quality Control Specialist
- Production Manager
- Logistics Manager
- Supply Chain Manager
- Purchasing Manager
Operations Manager Salary in South Africa
According to Talent.com, as of December 2024, the average salary for an operations manager in South Africa is R 562,744 annually. However, salaries can vary based on factors like experience. For instance, entry-level positions typically start at around R330,000 per year, while more experienced professionals can earn up to R6,600,000 annually.
Similarly, the industry you work in can impact your salary. Operations managers in industries such as manufacturing, mining, or logistics often earn higher salaries than those in retail or hospitality. Additionally, as you learn how to become an operations manager, you must know that the job location also plays a role in determining salary levels. Positions in major cities like Johannesburg or Cape Town typically offer higher pay, reflecting the higher cost of living and the presence of larger companies.
Read more about Operations Manager Salary in South Africa Here
How to Start Your Journey as an Operations Manager in South Africa?
You will need a combination of academic qualifications and practical experience to start your journey as an operations manager in South Africa. Begin by obtaining a degree in operations management or a related field, which provides the foundation for your career. After completing your degree, gain practical experience through internships or entry-level roles.
Once you have gained some experience, consider furthering your expertise by pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management from Regenesys Business School. With this advanced degree, you will gain deep knowledge of modules such as Operations Management, Financial Management, and Organisational Strategy.
However, while you have learnt how to become an operations manager, you must that securing this role also requires a strategic approach. The following are tips for securing a role in operations management:
- Build a compelling CV that highlights your relevant skills and experience.
- Use professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to connect with industry experts.
- Prepare for interviews by showcasing your problem-solving and analytical abilities.
- Learn about different areas of operations to expand your knowledge.
- Keep up with the latest trends and practices in the industry.
- Seek guidance from experienced professionals for mentorship.
Know about Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management: Is It Worth the Investment?
Conclusion
Becoming an operations manager in South Africa is a great career choice for those interested in improving business processes and managing resources. One can build a successful career in operations management by combining the right qualifications and practical experience. By developing essential skills like leadership, communication, and problem-solving, aspirants can position themselves for success in operations management roles across various industries. However, once you become an operations manager, remember to use professional networks, stay updated on industry trends, and improve your knowledge and abilities to excel in this field.
Enrol in the Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management from Regenesys Business School to gain the skills and knowledge needed for success in operations management. Apply Today!
How to Become an Operations Manager in South Africa? – FAQs
What is an operations manager?
To define operations manager, it is a professional who oversees daily business operations, managing resources, optimising processes, and ensuring company objectives are met. They play a critical role in improving productivity and ensuring operational efficiency.
What does an operations manager do?
An operations manager is responsible for planning strategies, improving business processes, ensuring product/service quality, and monitoring performance. Thus, they improve efficiency, reduce costs, and achieve organisational goals.
How to become an operations manager?
To become an operations manager, start by earning a bachelor’s degree in business management. Gain relevant work experience in management or supervisory roles, and consider a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management to further improve your qualifications.
What are careers in operations management?
Careers in operations management include roles such as project manager, logistics manager, quality control specialist, and supply chain manager. These positions focus on different operational areas and offer diverse career growth opportunities.
What are operations manager qualifications?
To become an operations manager, professionals can pursue an operations management degree or a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Management to gain specialised knowledge in managing operations and strategy.
Can I get an operations manager duties and responsibilities pdf?
Yes, you can download a detailed PDF guide outlining the full range of duties and responsibilities of an operations manager. This resource provides in-depth insights into the tasks and challenges an operations manager faces.
