Behind every successful organisation is a skilled operations leader. I.e., the person who ensures everything runs smoothly, efficiently, and strategically.
Whether it’s making sure a factory meets production targets, a retailer keeps shelves stocked, or a hospital delivers patient care on time. These operations managers are the backbone of business success.
This is where an operations management course, such as REGENT’s BCom in Supply Chain Management comes in. It teaches you how to effectively lead business operations, equipping you with technical and managerial skills.
This article will guide you through the essential operations leadership qualifications, practical experience, and show you how to become an operations manager.
What is operations management?
Operations management ensures organisations run efficiently and effectively. It’s about turning resources into high-quality products or services that meet customer needs. Including human, financial, and material resources.
You can think of an operations manager as the “conductor of the orchestra,” so to speak. They’re responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations, including:
- Coordinating supply chains
- Overseeing production
- Managing budgets
- Leading teams
They work in many different industries, including:
- Manufacturing
- Retail
- Healthcare
- Logistics
- Services
- And more
What qualifications & experience do I need for an operations manager role?
Aspiring operations leaders need both academic foundations and practical experience. Especially if they’re looking to land high-earning jobs.
Employers look for professionals who understand strategy and get results in real-world situations. Here are some of the formal qualifications and experience you’ll need to pursue operations management careers:
Formal qualifications
- A Bachelor’s in Business, Supply Chain, or Operations Management provides analytical and managerial grounding.
- Professional certifications like Lean Six Sigma or PMP can boost credibility.
- For South African professionals, a degree aligned to local and global best practices — like REGENT’s Bachelor of Commerce in Supply Chain Management — is highly valuable.
Key skills gained through study & work
- Data analysis and problem-solving.
- Process optimisation.
- Leadership and people management.
- Understanding of logistics, procurement, and quality assurance.
How to demonstrate operational experience?
Even if you’re still early in your career, you can build a portfolio of relevant experiences:
- Internships & entry-level roles: Gaining hands-on exposure in supply chain, production, or customer service roles helps build credibility.
- Project work: Leading or assisting with process improvements, workflow automation, or inventory management projects shows initiative.
- Workplace achievements: The ability to highlight measurable results such as saving costs, improving efficiency, or reducing turnaround times.
- Case studies & simulations: REGENT integrates practical components into its courses, preparing graduates with real-world problem-solving capabilities.
How to become an operations manager?
There isn’t a single “right” path to becoming an operations leader. Some start in entry-level supply chain or logistics roles and work their way up.
Others pivot into operations after gaining experience in fields like finance, human resources, or project management. Wherever you begin, there are clear steps you can take to fast-track your growth:
1. Start with a relevant qualification
A strong academic foundation gives you the credibility and skills needed to move into management.
Studying a qualification like REGENT’s Bachelor of Commerce in Supply Chain Management ensures you understand the full lifecycle of operations, from procurement and inventory control to logistics and customer delivery.
This knowledge not only makes you more employable but also prepares you to make data-driven decisions in a leadership role.
Example: Imagine interviewing for a junior operations analyst role. A qualification shows that you not only know the theory but also understand practical models like Lean Management and Six Sigma, which can make your insights stand out to employers.
2. Gain industry experience
Hands-on experience is essential.
Start in supervisory, analyst, or coordinator roles where you can learn how different functions work. Learn how procurement, production, quality control, logistics, and customer service fit together. As you progress, look for opportunities to work across departments.
Example: You may start by managing a warehouse team, then take on responsibilities in supply planning or procurement. Each step builds the “big picture thinking” that operations managers need.
3. Invest in continuous learning
Operations is a field that evolves constantly. Leaders who thrive are those who keep learning. Stay updated on:
- Technology: ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems, AI-driven forecasting, and process automation tools.
- Trends: Sustainability, green supply chains, and global trade changes.
- Certifications: Courses in Lean Six Sigma, Agile project management, or data analytics can give you a competitive edge.
By showing adaptability, you signal to employers that you’re ready to lead in modern, tech-enabled environments.
4. Develop skills for operations leaders
Operations managers are problem-solvers and people leaders. You’ll need to:
- Motivate diverse teams under pressure.
- Handle conflict when production schedules or supply chains get disrupted.
- Communicate clearly with executives, frontline staff, and suppliers.
Leadership can be developed on the job. But training in management, communication, and emotional intelligence helps accelerate this growth.
Example: If a shipment is delayed and production stalls, it’s your ability to calm the team, reallocate resources, and communicate with stakeholders that will define your effectiveness as a leader.
5. Network strategically
Career growth is rarely just about hard skills, it’s also about who you know. You can open doors to promotions and leadership opportunities by:
- Joining professional associations
- Attending industry conferences
- Seeking mentors in your organisation
Example: A mid-career logistics coordinator who networks at supply chain forums may discover new job openings, mentorship opportunities, or even gain insights into global best practices that set them apart when applying for management roles.
FAQ
What is the best qualification for an aspiring operations leader?
A Bachelor of Commerce in Supply Chain Management is one of the strongest foundations. It combines business management with hands-on logistics, procurement, and process management skills. Ultimately equipping graduates for leadership.
Does REGENT offer practical components in its operations courses?
Yes. REGENT’s programmes are designed to bridge academic learning with industry application. Students engage with case studies, simulations, and projects that reflect real-world challenges in supply chains and operations.
Can I study operations management part-time or online?
Yes. REGENT offers distance learning and blended options. This makes it possible for working professionals to advance their studies while gaining practical experience.
Study operations management with REGENT
If you’re ready to step into operations leadership, REGENT provides the perfect balance of academics and practice.
The BCom in Supply Chain Management equips you with analytical, managerial, and leadership skills. All which is needed to thrive in today’s complex working environment.
Learn more about REGENT’s Supply Chain Management course and take the first steps towards becoming a future-ready operations leader.
