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Apprenticeships

Operations Manager Apprenticeship


Course
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About

Our Operations/Departmental Manager programme is designed to equip managers with the knowledge and skills needed to manage staff, resources, finance, recruitment, information and operations. They will develop project management skills and learn to develop themselves professionally. Throughout the programme, they will be supported by a course mentor who will give them the knowledge and skills that they need as a senior manager. This is a 20-month programme leading to an endpoint assessment of a portfolio, a project and a presentation.

Operations Managers

Welcome to this comprehensive course designed for those aspiring to excel in operations or departmental management. This course is tailored to equip you with the skills and knowledge essential for managing teams and projects effectively, aligning with an organisation's strategic objectives, whether it operates in the private, public, or voluntary sector. The role of an Operations or Departmental Manager is pivotal in implementing the operational or departmental strategy as part of the broader organisational goals. As a learner, you will gain insights into these managers' dynamic responsibilities, ranging from creating and executing operational plans to leading robust teams.

This course delves into the varied aspects of operational and departmental management, ensuring a broad understanding regardless of the sector or organisation size you may find yourself in. Key topics include project management, leading and managing teams, adapting to change, and effective financial and resource management. You will also explore talent management, coaching, and mentoring. The curriculum is designed to cater to various roles within this field, such as Operations Manager, Regional Manager, Divisional Manager, Department Manager, and various specialist managerial positions. By the end of this course, you will be well-equipped with the knowledge, skills, and behaviours essential for a successful career in operations or departmental management.

 


 

Typical Job Roles

  • Operations manager
  • Regional manager
  • Divisional manager
  • Department manager
  • Specialist managers 

 


 

Typical Programme Length

20 Months

 

Programme Level

Level 5

 

Delivery Method

Blended Learning through online learning, live tutor-led classes and 1 to 1 mentoring.

 

End Point Assessment

Professional discussion, underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
Project proposal, presentation and questioning

 

Professional Recognition

Operations Manager Apprenticeship Certificate

Full members with the Chartered Management Institute and/or the Institute of Leadership and Management

Those with 3 years of management experience can apply for Chartered Manager status through the CMI.

 

Funding

Apprenticeship Levy paying employers can use their funds for this programme. Employers not paying the Levy can get up to 95% funding. 

 


 

Curriculum

The curriculum aligns with the apprenticeship standard and is delivered through one-to-one mentoring, live tutor-led lessons and learning material in the learning management system. All learners typically complete the entire curriculum, but where prior learning and or experience has taken place, then a reduced curriculum will be discussed.

 

Title

Description

Operational management

Understand operational management approaches and models, including creating plans to deliver objectives and setting KPIs. Understand business development tools (eg SWOT), and approaches to continuous improvement. Understand operational business planning techniques, including how to manage resources, development of sales and marketing plans, setting targets and monitoring performance. Knowledge of management systems, processes and contingency planning. Understand how to initiate and manage change by identifying barriers and know how to overcome them. Understand data security and management, and the effective use of technology in an organisation.

Project management

Know how to set up and manage a project using relevant tools and techniques, and understand process management. Understand approaches to risk management.

Finance

Understand business finance: how to manage budgets, and financial forecasting.

Leading people

Understand different leadership styles, how to lead multiple and remote teams and manage team leaders. Know how to motivate and improve performance, supporting people using coaching and mentoring approaches. Understand organisational cultures and diversity and their impact on leading and managing change. Know how to delegate effectively.

Managing people

Know how to manage multiple teams, and develop high performing teams. Understand performance management techniques, talent management models and how to recruit and develop people.

Building relationships

Understand approaches to partner, stakeholder and supplier relationship management including negotiation, influencing, and effective networking. Knowledge of collaborative working techniques to enable delivery through others and how to share best practice. Know how to manage conflict at all levels.

Communication

Understand interpersonal skills and different forms of communication and techniques (verbal, written, non-verbal, digital) and how to apply them appropriately.

Self awareness

Understand own impact and emotional intelligence. Understand different and learning and behaviour styles.

Management of self

Understand time management techniques and tools, and how to prioritise activities and the use of different approaches to planning, including managing multiple tasks.

Decision making

Understand problem solving and decision making techniques, including data analysis. Understand organisational values and ethics and their impact on decision making.

 


 

End Point Assessment

The assessment includes a professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence involving a structured two-way conversation between the apprentice and an independent assessor to demonstrate competence in key skills and behaviours (KSBs). A second method involves the apprentice creating a project proposal and delivering a post-gateway presentation to show real business benefits and cover the assigned KSBs. This is followed by questioning from the independent assessor to evaluate the apprentice's understanding and application of the project's aspects.

 


 

Value to Apprentices

This programme presents significant value to apprentices by offering a structured and practical approach to learning, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios. Including a professional discussion and project proposal offers a unique opportunity for apprentices to demonstrate their competence in key skills and behaviours, promoting a deeper understanding of their field. Moreover, the programme's emphasis on evidence-based assessments and active participation ensures that apprentices acquire essential skills and develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the confidence to contribute effectively in their professional roles.

 


 

Value to Employers

For employers, this programme represents an invaluable investment in their workforce. By enrolling employees in such a programme, employers benefit from a more skilled and competent team capable of driving innovation and efficiency within the organisation. The programme equips employees with the latest industry knowledge and practical skills, directly translating to improved productivity and a competitive edge in the market. Furthermore, offering such developmental opportunities can enhance employee satisfaction and retention, demonstrating the employer’s commitment to their employees' professional growth and career advancement.

 


 

Operations Manager Apprenticeship Standard

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