Operations Managers keep the daily work of a business on track. They plan, direct, and run work across teams while managing budgets. They also act fast when things change. This role needs both big-picture thinking and hands-on leadership. Planning and Goal Setting – Setting targets and standards that match the business plan. Daily Operations – Directing teams to keep work running well and on target. Staff Consultation – Talking to team heads about methods, tools, and resource...

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Displaying 10 of 21 courses

Diploma of Business
The Institute of Applied Psychology
BSB50120OnlineOnlineBusiness Consultant, Business Manager, Executive Officer, Human Resource Management, Manager, Operations Manager, Project Manager, Sales ManagerPrice may vary12 months
The BSB50120 Diploma of Business offered by The Institute of Applied Psychology is a comprehensive program designed to equip aspiring business professionals with essential skills for the modern workplace. This course blends academic knowledge with practical application, focusing on critical areas such as strategic thinking, emotional intelligence, and...
Learn more about Diploma of Business
AIB MBA
Australian Institute of Business
OnlineOnlineChief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Operating Officer, Entrepreneur, General Manager, Management Consultant, Managing Director, Marketing Manager, Operations Manager, Project Manager, Small Business Manager, Small Business Owner, Strategic Advisor, Team LeaderPrice may vary12 months
The AIB MBA offered by the Australian Institute of Business is designed for individuals seeking to enhance their business acumen and leadership skills in a condensed timeframe. This course provides a comprehensive overview of essential business concepts, including strategic management, marketing, finance, and organisational behaviour. Participants will engage...
Learn more about AIB MBA
Diploma of Business
College for Adult Learning
BSB50120OnlineOnlineBusiness Development Manager, Business Manager, General Manager, Manager, Office Manager, Operations Manager, Operations Officer, Sales ManagerPrice may varyFull time: approx. 12 months; Part-time: approx. 12-14 months
The BSB50120 Diploma of Business offered by the College for Adult Learning is designed to equip individuals with essential skills and knowledge to thrive in various business environments. This course covers a broad range of key learning areas, including leadership, project management, and effective communication strategies. Participants will...
Learn more about Diploma of Business
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
La Trobe University
OnlineOnlineChief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Chief Operating Officer, General Manager, Management Consultant, Marketing Manager, Operations Manager, Product ManagerPrice may vary18 months
The Master of Business Administration (MBA) offered by La Trobe University is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in today’s dynamic business environment. This comprehensive program covers a range of key learning areas, including strategic management, marketing, finance, and organisational behaviour....
Learn more about Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management
Engineering Institute of Technology
BSB60420OnlineOnlineOperations Manager, Project Manager, Team LeaderPrice may vary18 Months
The BSB60420 Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management, offered by the Engineering Institute of Technology, is a nationally recognised qualification for professionals looking to build advanced leadership and management skills. Designed with engineering, technical, operational, and project-based environments in mind, this course supports students to strengthen their skills...
Learn more about Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management
Graduate Certificate of Leadership
Deakin University
OnlineOnlineChief Operating Officer, Manager, Operations Manager, Program Manager, Project Leader, Supervisor, Team LeaderPrice may vary8 months
The Graduate Certificate of Leadership offered by Deakin University is a transformative online qualification designed for experienced leaders seeking to formalise their leadership skills and enhance their capabilities. This course provides a comprehensive exploration of key leadership concepts, enabling participants to reflect on their experiences and apply evidence-based...
Learn more about Graduate Certificate of Leadership
Graduate Certificate in Project Management
AIM Business School
OnlineOnlineChief Operating Officer, Operations Manager, Program Manager, Project Coordinator, Project Manager, Project Team LeaderPrice may vary4 months full time
The Graduate Certificate in Project Management offered by AIM Business School is a comprehensive online program designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of both aspiring and experienced professionals in the field of project management. This Level 8 qualification, as recognised by the Australian Qualifications Framework, provides a...
Learn more about Graduate Certificate in Project Management
Graduate Certificate in Business
UNSW Online
OnlineOnlineBusiness Manager, Finance Manager, General Manager, Manager, Marketing Manager, Operations Manager, Project ManagerPrice may varyAccelerated; complete in as little as 8 months
The Graduate Certificate in Business offered by UNSW Online is designed to equip individuals with essential skills and knowledge to thrive in today’s dynamic business environment. This course covers a range of key learning areas, including strategic management, marketing principles, and financial decision-making. Participants will gain a comprehensive...
Learn more about Graduate Certificate in Business
Diploma of Project Management
SkillX
BSB50820OnlineOnlineContract Manager, Operations Manager, Project Coordinator, Project Manager, Team LeaderPrice may vary52 weeks (Flexible pacing available for intermediate and advanced learners)
The BSB50820 Diploma of Project Management is a nationally recognised online qualification that equips learners with the skills to lead and manage projects across a range of fast-paced industries. From business and IT to healthcare and construction, this course provides practical tools in project planning, budgeting, team coordination,...
Learn more about Diploma of Project Management
The Global MBA
Rome Business School
OnlineOnlineBusiness Development Manager, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Operating Officer, Entrepreneur, Finance Manager, General Manager, Management Consultant, Marketing Director, Operations Manager, Project ManagerPrice may vary12 months
The Global MBA is awarded by Rome Business School and delivered online in partnership with Ducere Global Business School. Designed for professionals seeking to strengthen their strategic leadership capability, this 12-month program combines academic depth with practical, work-based learning. The curriculum focuses on core areas including ethics and...
Learn more about The Global MBA

On this page

What is a Operations Manager?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Operations Manager?

An Operations Manager runs the daily work of a business and keeps things on track. They look after teams in areas such as buying, warehousing, and making products. Their core aim is to match how the business runs with its goals. They make sure products and services meet customer needs while keeping costs in check.

Operations Managers set rules, assign targets, and direct teams each day. They act fast when things change and redirect staff as needed. They talk to team heads about methods, tools, and budgets. This calls for strong leadership and clear communication at all levels.

They also manage budgets, write reports, and share forecasts with the board. They pick and manage senior staff to keep the right people in place. This role can cover finance, sales, HR, and more depending on the size of the business.

A career as an Operations Manager is both rewarding and challenging. It gives you the chance to lead teams and shape the future of a business. Those who enjoy fast-paced, results-driven work will do well here. There are clear paths to general manager and executive roles over time.

Career snapshots For Operations Managers

Operations Managers work across almost every industry in Australia. About 41,800 Australians are in this role, with steady demand for new entrants (Labour Market Insights, 2025). The median age is about 45, and most roles are full-time and permanent. The average working week is around 49 hours, showing the senior nature of the job.

Pay averages $97,326 per year, with experienced pros earning above $151,000 (PayScale, 2026). Entry-level roles start at around $65,000, with growth linked to field and experience. About 1,100 new jobs open each year across Australia. The role is found in healthcare, manufacturing, logistics, and expert services.

What will I do?

Operations Managers keep the daily work of a business on track. They plan, direct, and run work across teams while managing budgets. They also act fast when things change. This role needs both big-picture thinking and hands-on leadership.

Planning and Goal Setting – Setting targets and standards that match the business plan.
Daily Operations – Directing teams to keep work running well and on target.
Staff Consultation – Talking to team heads about methods, tools, and resource use.
Performance Review – Tracking and lifting how senior staff and teams perform.
Budget and Reporting – Writing and presenting reports, budgets, and forecasts to the board.
Policy Rollout – Approving funds for major policy programs and making sure they run.
Representation – Acting as the business contact at events, talks, and public forums.
Situation Response – Reading change in conditions and directing staff to respond fast.

What skills do I need?

Operations Managers need a strong mix of leadership, communication, and analysis skills. They guide teams, manage results, and keep work moving in the right direction. They must explain plans clearly to staff, teams, and senior leaders. When problems come up, they need to think fast and find real solutions.

Project management skills help Operations Managers run many tasks at once without missing deadlines. A head for finance is needed to track budgets and control costs. Being able to adapt helps when plans change or problems arise. Skills in business software and a basic grasp of work health and safety laws round out the set.

Skills/attributes

Strong leadership and team management skills
Clear communication at all levels of an organisation
Strategic planning and organisational ability
Problem-solving and confident decision-making
Financial literacy and budget management
Project management skills
Ability to analyse and improve processes
Adaptability in fast-changing environments
Customer and stakeholder focus
Knowledge of workplace health and safety laws
Proficiency in business software and data tools
Negotiation and conflict resolution skills
Time management and prioritisation under pressure
Understanding of supply chain and procurement practices
Ability to build and develop high-performing teams

Resources

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.