Discover what a Global Operations Manager does and the skills needed to succeed in this dynamic role.
What does a Global Operations Manager do?
A Global Operations Manager is responsible for the management and supervision of a company's operational functions globally. This involves liaising with teams in different regions to ensure the efficient execution of operational processes worldwide, with a focus on costs and budgets, quality standards and performance.
If you’re interested in learning more about global operations management, the focuses of modern-day Global Operations Managers and the skills needed to succeed in this role, then read on.
The importance of a Global Operations Manager
Global Operations Managers play a crucial role, particularly in today’s interconnected world, in ensuring that a company's operations remain efficient and competitive across various markets worldwide.
Successful Global Operations Managers are able to navigate any issues in global supply chains (working with Supply Chain Managers), oversee logistics and put measures in place to adapt to regional variations and cross-border customer needs.
For example, in a large, global company like Amazon, a Global Operations Manager would be responsible for monitoring local market demands, ensuring processes are adhered to across different countries, all with an eye on speed, budgets and efficiency.
Key duties and responsibilities of a Global Operations Manager
A Global Operations Manager’s role is far-reaching, and ever-changing due to evolving technology and customer needs, which is why a degree of flexibility is key for success.
However, the following are the key duties and responsibilities of a Global Operations Manager:
Global supply chain management
Most importantly, Global Operations Managers work towards the smooth movement of goods/services across different countries and regions. They do this with an eye on minimising costs and sticking to budgets and timeframes.
Coordination with teams in different countries
Global Operations Managers work closely with teams from different countries to ensure all regions are aligned and on board with the company’s values and objectives. This includes everything from finance and sales teams to logistics and warehousing teams.
Monitoring compliance
Ensuring that all company policies and procedures adhere to global standards and legal requirements. This is particularly important at a global level, as varying countries may have different compliance regulations and laws.
Data analysis
Global Operations Managers use existing data to identify weaknesses, risks and areas for improvement in operational efficiency across multiple regions.
Global Operations Manager skills
In order to become a Global Operations Manager, there are many skills needed to be successful. If you’re interested in progressing your career in this sector, take a look here for the hard and soft skills required:
Global Operations Manager soft skills
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Leadership
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Communication – particularly cross-culturally
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Problem solving
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Flexible
Global Operations Manager hard skills
- Supply chain management
- Project management
- Knowledge of international regulations and compliance laws
How an MSc in Logistics and Supply Chain Management can help
If you think global operations management could be for you, and you’re interested in deepening your level of understanding of the global operations field, take a look at our MSc Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
Throughout your studies, you’ll gain in-depth understanding of logistics and supply chain management by enhancing your knowledge of its importance and role as a source of competitive advantage.
You’ll develop deep insights into best practices in logistics and supply chain management methods, tools and techniques, as well as being given the opportunity to network with like-minded professionals and experience the value of diversity, the challenge of alternate worldviews, and the consequent importance of being a competent communicator.
The course will open doors to multiple career opportunities in logistics and supply chain management, and equip you with the skills you need to succeed. Our course is 100% online, and part-time over two years, meaning you can work your studies around your existing commitments.
