When I grow up I want to be a . . .
No matter what your personality type, there is a role for everyone in the fashion business retail, marketing and production sector. In the third of a series, John Morison profiles the role of a operations manager.
Position overview
A traditional operations manager provides strategic operational direction and deliver high quality management of the operational resources and functions of the specific company. The operations manager must establish, maintain and oversee effective staffing and staff training, management systems and operations of the production, warehousing & logistics and customer service functions to help ensure the division is achieving its goal of providing apparel and service of superior quality to meet client expectations.
He or she must also provide significant input in the creation of departmental strategies, operational procedures and policy development of the company. Provide input from an operational perspective into the company's strategic planning, resource allocation and adaptive management framework, processes and reporting.
Requirements
Operations managers tend to be people with high level leadership and management skills and the ability to manage projects and activities within tight timeframes. They are generally able to participate in the creation and implementation of departmental strategies, operational procedures, policy development and budget development and also have proven analytical and problem solving skills and demonstrated ability for self-direction, excellent skills in conflict resolution, negotiation, communication and liaison and well-developed customer focus.
Other skills include:
* staff supervision - set employee goals and objectives; review, evaluate and monitor staff performance; ensure effective retention efforts; and ensure appropriate staffing of all operational departments.
* Experience in utilising a computerised apparel management system.
* Collaboration and service integration - attend internal and external meetings to ensure the division's effective partnering with other organisational departments.
* Resource Management - regularly assess departmental needs and manage upgrade of resources where necessary in conjunction with General Manager
* Other duties as assigned by the General Manager.
It would suit people who
Are proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook), garment construction and who have completed management courses.
On a personal note, a good operations manager will be able to demonstrate strong leadership skills, attention to detail, good time management and possess strong communication skills, both verbal and written. Ideally he or she will also be a good problem solver, be self-motivated, have a positive attitude and be able to display good people management skills.
Remuneration
Anywhere between $80,000 and $130,000 per annum, depending on the size of the organisation.
What next
An experienced operations manager with the ability to expand his or her skill base to incorporate financial accountability and sales could potentially emerge as a general manager.