Research Summary. Below we've compiled a list of the most important skills for an operations manager. We ranked the top skills based on the percentage of operations manager resumes they appeared on. For example, 23.5% of operations manager resumes contained customer service as a skill. Let's find out what skills an operations manager actually needs in order to be successful in the workplace.

  • The most common hard skill for an operations manager is customer service. 23.5% operations managers have this skill on their resume.
  • The second most common hard skill for an operations manager is logistics appearing on 6.6% of resumes. The third most common is continuous improvement on 6.2% of resumes.
  • Three common soft skills for an operations manager are communication skills, leadership skills and management skills.

Operations managers should have a strong focus on customer service as one of their most important soft skills. Managing customer relationships is a large part of the job, and you should try and emphasize this skill along with communication. You'll also want to demonstrate continuous improvements in operations.

Operations managers also need a number of hard skills to successfully conduct their work. You'll want to show a command of the proper logistics for improving workplace systems. ISO certification, managing inventory levels, and overseeing a department's daily operations are all important hard skills for operations managers as well.

Below we've compiled a list of the most important skills for an operations manager. We ranked the top skills based on the percentage of operations manager resumes they appeared on. For example, 23.5% of operations manager resumes contained customer service as a skill. Let's find out what skills an operations manager actually needs in order to be successful in the workplace.

15 Essential Operations Manager Skills For Your Resume And Career

1. Customer Service

Customer service is the process of offering assistance to all the current and potential customers -- answering questions, fixing problems, and providing excellent service. The main goal of customer service is to build a strong relationship with the customers so that they keep coming back for more business.

Here's how customer service is used on operations manager resumes:
  • Oversee customer service and customer relations; performed daily and monthly regulatory equipment inspections, premise security, and incident management.
  • Investigate and solved complex problems with customers through innovation and ensured customer satisfaction by providing prompt, quality customer service.
  • Develop action plans to improve operational controls Mitigate losses, ensuring consistent customer service and a superior client experience.
  • Handle all customer service related issues including scheduling, processing payments, updating customer profiles and ensuring customer retention.
  • Enhanced corporate culture from adversarial to collaborative, leading to improved decision making, customer service and employee satisfaction.

2. Logistics

Logistics is a complete organization and implementation of a problem. Logistics are often considered in a complex business operation, as some works need detailed plannings. Logistics are also used in military action.

Here's how logistics is used on operations manager resumes:
  • Established contractual and operational metrics with reverse logistics vendor to continually drive cost and operational improvements further improving asset recovery.
  • Advised the Afghan National Police in logistics and manpower utilization resulting in a greatly improved logistical infrastructure.
  • Worked closely with transportation manager to coordinate logistics of mail exchange between Mid West operating centers.
  • Managed underwriting and licensing logistics to ensure agent and agency requirements were covered for all 50-states.
  • Analyzed and suggested changes for delivery and logistics to ensure customer orders are filled efficiently.

3. Continuous Improvement

Continuous improvement is an ongoing process of improvement of products, services, and processes with the help of innovative ideas. It is an organized approach that helps an organization to find its weaknesses and improve them.

Here's how continuous improvement is used on operations manager resumes:
  • Improved operational efficiency by implementing continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Realized productivity improvements ranging from 10% to 25% through continuous improvement methodology - identifying and eliminating waste in operations.
  • Guided team of regional Operations Specialists, executed staff development initiatives, training programs and documentation while focused on continuous improvement.
  • Championed work center metrics boards to identify SQDC by production cell to improve team member involvement and identify continuous improvement opportunities.
  • Lead and facilitated continuous improvement projects utilizing Lean Methodologies to improve quality, safety, and throughput of assigned areas.

And if you’re looking for a job, here are the five top employers hiring now:

  1. Amazon Jobs (1,167)
  2. Walmart Jobs (855)
  3. Bank of America Jobs (580)
  4. Wells Fargo Jobs (412)
  5. UPS Jobs (713)

4. Payroll

Payroll is the sum of all the compensation that an organization has to pay to employees at a specified time. Payroll is managed by the finance or HR department while small business owners may handle it themselves. Payroll isn't fixed as it varies every month due to sick leaves, overtime, etc.

Here's how payroll is used on operations manager resumes:
  • Review payroll records and monitor financial transactions to ensure expenditures versus store revenue contribute to expected profit margin.
  • Hired and trained steamfitters and electrical technicians, administered payroll, and scheduled installation crews.
  • Balanced payroll accounts by auditing information; identifying and resolving discrepancies; initiating journal entries.
  • Implemented new payroll services reducing administrative costs and improving accuracy and payroll tax compliance.
  • Completed and submitted biweekly payroll including expense reimbursements for field staff.

5. Project Management

Here's how project management is used on operations manager resumes:
  • Directed key project management functions including critical path scheduling, budget management, project tracking/status reports, and quality assurance.
  • Project management from concept development to realization for foundation activities such as annual fundraiser, and international exhibit viewing trips.
  • Order Fulfillment, Shipping Operations, Customer Followup, Warehouse Optimization and Project Management, Safety Training Development and execution.
  • Project Management and general oversight for technology and non-technology projects, for internal departments Financial Aid and Document Imaging.
  • Project Management duties include assisting in contract preparation and execution, budget tracking and employee utilization tracking and reporting.

6. Process Improvement

Here's how process improvement is used on operations manager resumes:
  • Directed a variety of special projects: ranging from implementing process improvements to deploying technology- based solutions for litigation software clients.
  • Facilitated process improvement activities to ensure acceptable performance levels for accuracy and timeliness were met for internal stakeholders and PBM vendor.
  • Streamlined spreadsheets to analyze data and sales forecasts that helped introduce process improvements that enhanced productivity within new business developments.
  • Fostered an environment of teamwork and commitment to process improvement and produce on time product quality while coordinated across departments.
  • Developed and successfully executed project plans/schedules to meet objectives for activities related to operational/production engineering projects & process improvement events.

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7. Oversight

Having oversight of someone means to monitor a process or a situation. If someone has oversight of something, they are responsible for the completion of the project. Oversight is usually given to experts as they monitor their juniors or newbies as they go through a project.

Here's how oversight is used on operations manager resumes:
  • Provided management oversight for daily relationships with label and artist management and site promotions via content management and asset deployment.
  • Provided technical oversight during the development of key training plans for mobilization and ensured compliance with established policies and procedures.
  • Provided operational oversight of privately-held organization and assisted in supporting leading physician-directed medical weight loss program in the US.
  • Provided oversight to the account reconciliation team by reviewing and enhancing standard operation procedures, auditing monthly reconciliation statements.
  • Managed monthly purchase order and invoice submission/tracking of software/labor contract renewals to increase vendor oversight and improve vendor management.

8. Customer Satisfaction

Here's how customer satisfaction is used on operations manager resumes:
  • Coordinated the operation of the Production and Maintenance Departments to insure customer satisfaction with timely delivery while meeting manufacturing cost objectives.
  • Lead the Air and Ocean department in all operational disciplines and ensure operational excellence, high productivity and customer satisfaction.
  • Devised operating strategy to improve service level objective's and increase customer satisfaction/retention to meet organizational goals both long/short term.
  • Supervised transport and valet associates to ensure patient and customer satisfaction as well as ensure personnel performance and productivity.
  • Re-tooled and implemented processes to increase efficiency which led to decreased overtime in all departments while increasing customer satisfaction.

9. ISO

Here's how iso is used on operations manager resumes:
  • Contributed to earning ISO 9001 certification including development of training checklists for Safety, Quality and Productivity.
  • Direct all warehouse/inventory activities along with shipping/receiving ensuring that all processes and procedures follow ISO 9001 requirements.
  • Assisted in facilitating ISO Certification in order to utilize a proven business system that has global recognition.
  • Implemented processes and documentation to assist in earning ISO certification.
  • Served as quality representative on ISO 9001:2000 certified warehouse operation.

10. Direct Reports

Here's how direct reports is used on operations manager resumes:
  • Managed approximately 35 direct and indirect reports in credit card operations unit that responded to customer inquiries.
  • Developed direct reports through an individual leadership development plan catered to each individual s specific needs.
  • Worked with direct reports to ensure implementation of merchandising, operations and human resources programs/directives.
  • Supervised 24/7 manufacturing and development operation, 22 direct reports and additional indirect reports.
  • Recruited and managed administrative direct reports and created on-boarding process for experienced hires.

11. PowerPoint

Here's how powerpoint is used on operations manager resumes:
  • Developed innovative PowerPoint presentations used by organization officials in order to present strategies for generating resources and/or revenues for the company.
  • Designed company website, PowerPoint presentation, brochure, profile, machinery list & factory production capacity information for marketing purposes.
  • Prepared organizational charts, PowerPoint slides, and reports for leadership for weekly training meetings, making recommendations and implementing improvements.
  • Coordinate travel arrangements, event planning, meeting coordination, maintain Studio Director's calendar and create PowerPoint presentations for company meetings
  • Work involved coordinating the planning and initiation of projects including development of marketing brochures, PowerPoint presentations and technical proposals.

12. Human Resources

Human resources is a set of people in a business or a corporation that are designated to locate, interview, and recruit new employees into the company. They are also responsible to maintain the integrity of the employees and help them sort their problems out. They try to introduce and manage employee-benefit programs.

Here's how human resources is used on operations manager resumes:
  • Coordinated with Human Resources to process employment requisitions, disciplinary investigations, performance improvement plans corrective actions and employment termination letters.
  • Collaborated with a cross-functional team including human resources and facilities management to develop and streamline talent development programming and operational procedures.
  • Managed contract management activities for regional operation including human resources, payroll and compensation policies, programs, and salary administration.
  • Directed and coordinated production processes of the manufacturing department to obtain optimum production and utilization of human resources and equipment.
  • Developed and fostered networking opportunities by cultivating working relationships with minority business owners for developing and planning human resources requirements.

13. Financial Statements

A financial statement is a report of an individual or a company that includes all the information about the declared assets, the use of money, income, and also the contribution of shareholders over a certain period.

Here's how financial statements is used on operations manager resumes:
  • Analyzed applicant's financial position including personal financial statements and tax returns, credit, and property evaluation to determine creditworthiness.
  • Budget analysis and presentation of financial statements to upper level management to improve process implementation and drive revenue and profit goals.
  • Computerized business to increase productivity, provide better access to customer records, and faster generation of financial statements and reports.
  • Managed and supervised operations, including, bank reconciliation, financial statements and variant analyzing reports for company's operations.
  • Analyzed financial statements, sales reports and performance data to measure productivity and goal achievement aimed at improving efficiency.

14. Inventory Management

Here's how inventory management is used on operations manager resumes:
  • Developed and refined logistics procedures and inventory management systems, reducing errors and implementation delays and improving customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Experienced in cash vault operations including deposit processing, change order processing, inventory management and banking center remote capture.
  • Manage all aspects of production facilities and equipment maintenance, including production staff and inventory management to achieve acceptable throughput.
  • Designed and implemented inventory management strategy that resulted in $175 million reduction in inventory within 6 months of implementation.
  • Oversee the generation of maximum profitability while performing safety, cost, quality and inventory management within operating budget constraints.

15. Inventory Control

Here's how inventory control is used on operations manager resumes:
  • Conducted quarterly product inventory utilizing computerized inventory control.
  • Led successful implementation of ERP initiative, including fully-integrated service order processing, purchasing, inventory control, and invoicing modules.
  • Direct entire warehouse operations including but not limited to order processing, inventory control, product accuracy and successful order fulfillment.
  • Cultivated new client relationships through extensive customer relations and consignments Supervised inventory control functions and ensured proper handling of merchandise.
  • Managed inventory control and ordered stock to ensure sufficient on-hand inventory during seasonal promotions to meet demand of target demographics.
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The eight most common skills based on Operations Manager resumes in 2023.

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List Of Skills To Add To Your Operations Manager Resume

According to recent trends, the most relevant operations manager Resume Keywords for your resume are:

  • Customer Service
  • Logistics
  • Continuous Improvement
  • Payroll
  • Project Management
  • Process Improvement
  • Oversight
  • Customer Satisfaction
  • ISO
  • Direct Reports
  • PowerPoint
  • Human Resources
  • Financial Statements
  • Inventory Management
  • Inventory Control
  • Loss Prevention
  • Performance Management
  • Quality Standards
  • Sigma
  • Front Desk
  • Performance Reviews
  • Corrective Action
  • Training Programs
  • Business Development
  • Disciplinary Actions
  • Business Operations
  • Cost Reduction
  • POS
  • Warehouse Operations
  • Office Operations
  • Equipment Maintenance
  • Store Operations
  • Customer Complaints
  • Performance Evaluations
  • FDA
  • Customer Relations
  • HVAC
  • QA
  • Cost Savings
  • Financial Reports
  • Sortation
  • Labor Costs
  • Operational Systems
  • Excellent Planning
  • Customer Issues
  • Strong Management
  • LTL
  • Deductive Reasoning
  • Excellent Training

Real Examples Of Operations Manager Resumes That Use These Skills

Most Important Operations Manager Skills According To Experts

What Type Of Skills Will Young Operations Managers Need?

Prabal Kumar De Ph.D.

Associate Professor of Economics and Director of M.A. in Economics Program, The City College of New York

I think the necessary skills remain the same. One modification that would stay is greater virtual engagement. Therefore, newly essential skills such as acing a virtual interview, making a mark during a Zoom meeting, or managing or being a valuable part of a remote working group would be useful long after the immediate threats from the COVID-19 crisis be gone.

What Technical Skills For An Operations Manager Stand Out To Employers?

Dr. Mary Kern Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Zicklin School of Business at Baruch College - City University of New York

- Clearly, the ability to use different forms of communication technology has become key, and as these forms evolve rapidly, employers are look for an ability to adapt, adopt, and teach them to their colleagues.

- Evidence-based management and decision-making are playing a much larger role in organizations, and thus the ability to work with quantitative data to understand situations and to help make decisions is crucial.

What Soft Skills Should All Operations Managers Possess?

Ravi Nath Ph.D.

Professor, Creighton University

Good communication skills, both written and oral, always serve well. Unless a graduate is able to effectively communicate and share their ideas and thoughts with others, their technical skills alone will not be sufficient in having a rewarding professional career.
The ability to successfully adapt to changing environments is also pivotal as the half-life of technology is quickly shrinking.
I will also add "resiliency' to this list of soft skills. Recovering from setbacks and quickly getting back on your feet has become a mantra particularly in the tech fields such as MIS and Data Science.

What Operations Manager Skills Would You Recommend For Someone Trying To Advance Their Career?

Nina Woodard

Senior Career Development Specialist, Belmont University

For entertainment, digital marketing and content creation skills are critical. Even if a role isn't specifically connected to digital marketing, social media is almost always involved in most entry-level roles. We strongly encourage students and recent graduates to learn basic graphic design platforms, video editing and audio editing. Learning how to maximize impact on social media platforms such as YouTube, Instagram or TikTok is also a worthy investment of time. There's a wide range of self-paced training resources online, many available for free or at reduced costs for students.

What Skills Stand Out On Operations Manager Resumes?

Karen Kus

Assistant Director of Career Services, SUNY Potsdam

Employers hiring candidates with a history degree are seeking transferable skills that can be applied in various roles and settings. These skills include writing, communication, research, organization, computer-based skills, and problem-solving. The best thing a candidate can do to increase marketability is to elaborate on how they obtained or utilized those skills, rather than simply listing them. Employers need to have an understanding of how you made use of your skill and what results came from your actions. Make these skills shine on your resume by giving them substance.

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Online Courses For Operations Managers

One of the best ways to acquire the skills needed to be an operations manager is to take an online course. We've identified some online courses from Udemy and Coursera that will help you advance in your career. Since operations managers benefit from having skills like customer service, logistics, and continuous improvement, we found courses that will help you improve these skills.

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9. ISO 14001:2015 Environmental management system

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11. Business Continuity Management System. ISO 22301.

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