What is an Operations Manager, and why do you need one?

Operations managers are service-oriented professionals who oversee the daily operations of a business or organization. They develop and implement strategies and systems to support the efficient and effective management of the departments or divisions they oversee. Below, we'll explain the key responsibilities of an operations manager and how having one in your business can help you thrive!

What is an Operations Manager?

In a nutshell, an operations manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of a business. They must maintain consistent and efficient performance while setting tactical objectives in line with long-term business goals. They also develop, implement and monitor systems and processes to ensure that operations run smoothly, while remaining organized, compliant with current regulations, and aligned with the larger strategy for the business.

What is the goal of Operations Management?

The primary goal of operations management is to maximize performance and productivity in order to save time and money, while ensuring that the business continues to provide high-grade products or services that address customer needs. The secondary goal of operations management - particularly in a small-to-medium sized business - is to relieve the Founder/Owner/CEO from the burden of running day-to-day operations.

Identifying Systems & Processes

One of the key roles of an operations manager is systems optimization - to ensure all recurring processes within the business are identified, articulated, streamlined and managed. This task can involve defining the process, testing and verifying it against performance standards, ensuring document control and compliance, monitoring progress, and developing methods to improve effectiveness. Operations managers must also be able to identify any gaps in processes or procedures and take action to address them.

Creating & Managing Strategic Plans

Operations managers are also responsible for supporting and managing the organization's strategic plans. These plans encapsulate the vision, mission, and goals of the business, and the operations manager helps to establish measurable objectives to support these plans, set benchmarks to assess progress, develop performance metrics to measure success, and evaluates risks involved in completing projects or achieving milestones. Operations managers ensure operational processes are strategically aligned with the organization's goals and meet internal and external requirements.

Developing Allocation Plans & Budgets

Operations managers may also support the development of allocation plans and budgets to ensure the successful implementation of the organization's objectives. This requires understanding revenue sources, costs for essential expenses, personnel resources needed for execution, and other factors necessary to achieve the desired results. Operations managers must ensure all costs and expenses fit within allocated budgets and timelines. Additionally, operations managers are responsible for overseeing resources and allocating them in ways that optimize the organization's success.

Analyzing Operations Performance

A crucial part of the operations manager's role is to analyze overall operational performance. This often involves implementing metrics to track progress and identify areas where improvement is needed. Critical performance metrics include efficiency, scalability, customer satisfaction, employee productivity, delivery timelines, and cost management. These metrics can help operations managers understand how well their staff is performing and what strategic changes need implementation for improved success.

Assessing Risks & Establishing Controls

Operations managers need to be able to identify and assess any risks that may affect operations, while protecting the company’s bottom-line. Operations managers can help you avoid potential revenue loss, cash wastage, and bloated expenses by implementing safeguards such as assessing existing processes, establishing controls, and monitoring activities.

Making Life Easier

An operations manager is an organizational problem solver — they help businesses and organizations make life easier by improving operational efficiency and eliminating waste. In other words, they make complex operations simpler and smoother –- saving you time, money and energy in the process.

Achieve Success

Take the burden off of your business with BonBon Strategic! Our experienced team of operations managers will provide the strategic insights and direction you need to achieve success. Contact us today to get started with a free consult call.