Skill path
How to become a General and Operations Manager
How to become a General and Operations Manager: skill roadmap with 5 core skills, degree usually required, courses and salary data. Updated weekly.
Education & experience requirements
- Education
- Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
- Experience
- A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations.
- On-the-job training
- Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
Foundations
Skills assumed by employers — the base to build on
- Operations managementFoundation
Overseeing daily processes and resources for efficiency. General and operations managers use it to coordinate teams and improve performance. Learn through management roles and industry experience.
- Supply chain managementFoundation
Coordinating the flow of goods from suppliers to customers. Operations, industrial production, and logistics managers use it to optimize delivery and reduce costs. Learn through logistics certifications and on-the-job experience.
- Process improvement methodologiesFoundation
Systematic methods to enhance workflows, like Lean or Six Sigma. Managers use them to eliminate waste and increase efficiency. Learn through professional training and project experience.
- Financial analysis basicsFoundation
Understanding financial statements and key metrics. Managers use it for budgeting and strategic decisions. Learn through finance fundamentals courses and practical application.
Core skills
The skills that define the role today
- Six SigmaHigh demand
A methodology to reduce defects and improve processes using statistical tools. Employers value it for boosting quality and efficiency. Learn through structured training and applying DMAIC projects.
- SQLHigh demand
A language for managing and querying databases. Analysts and engineers use it to extract and analyze data from various sources.
- ExcelHigh demand
A spreadsheet program for data organization and analysis. Essential for accountants and many other roles to manage and interpret data.
- SalesforceHigh demand
A CRM platform for managing customer relationships and sales processes. Employers use it to track interactions and automate workflows. Learn through Salesforce's own training paths and practical use.
- WorkdayHigh demand
Cloud-based software for HR, finance, and planning. Employers seek it for integrated data management and real-time analytics. Learn by practicing in Workday test environments and reviewing official documentation.