Why CPD training is valuable in Operations Management

Operations management plays an important role for many organisations across industries. Operations managers are often required to have a thorough and up-to-date understanding of their industry, as well as the specific functions of their organisation. In this article, we cover the role of operations managers, the key skills required of successful operations professionals and why operations managers benefit from engaging with CPD to maintain a current and effective skillset.

What is Operations Management and why it’s important?

Operations managers are responsible for the structures that produce and deliver the goods and services of an organisation. Operation managers are also in charge of overseeing the internal systems required in the running of an organisation. The aim of operations managers is to make sure these systems are as efficient and effective as possible.

It is important for organisations to maintain good and consistent operations management in order to run a sustainable business and scale operations. Effective operations management is an iterative practice – meaning it involves consistently analysing data to look for ways to innovate, refine and improve operational structures. The fundamental goal is developing internal and external systems that will achieve increased profit and overall organisation success.

Key Skills and Expertise for Successful Operations Managers

Operations managers need to be competent planners, organisers and learners in order to provide value to an organisation. Although by no means exhaustive, below are some key skills and expertise that an organisation will require of their operation management employees.

Industry knowledge:

A detailed understanding of their given industry is crucial for operations managers. A knowledge of industry-specific operational standards and practices can help an operations manager add value to an organisation’s internal systems and increase efficiency in the production and distribution processes. Industry knowledge can also help operations managers identify competitive advantages to help the organisation excel in its field.

Staying up to date with trends and technology:

The role of an operations manager can be distinctive and unique depending on the demands of the organisation. A broad understanding of emerging trends and technological advancements is a key skill that can aid operations managers in implementing more efficient structures for an organisation. Examples of relevant trends and technology may include productive workspaces, systems that encourage agile leadership, and removing friction and weaknesses from the production and distribution of goods and services.

Research:

Developing reliable research methods is a fundamental contributing factor to the success of an operations manager. The ability to access and use relevant information, in often time sensitive situations, is at the core of the innovation and development necessary to implement effective operation structures.

Data analysis:

A strong understanding of data analysis can help an operations manager implement constructive and beneficial systems. Good data analysis helps an organisation understand its internal operations and the behaviour of its customers. For an operations manager, the ability to locate and manipulate data to identify areas for improvement within an organisation can be a valuable skill.

Management:

Management skills help operations managers be effective in their role. While operations management requires a variety of other important skills, these must all be applied in combination with effective management. Making sure employees understand and are satisfied with new systems, and using effective feedback structures to constructively respond to problems employees may be experiencing, are examples of key management skills for operations managers.

Operations management is a dynamic role which needs to continually adapt to changing technologies and industry trends. It is therefore important for operations professionals to display a commitment to lifelong learning, in order to develop and maintain the necessary skills to be successful.

What are the Benefits of CPD for Operations Managers?

CPD stands for Continuing Professional Development and describes the learning activities professionals engage in to enhance their abilities and knowledge. CPD is a proactive and holistic approach towards the improvement of skills and proficiency throughout a professional’s career. It therefore aligns with the fundamental requirement of operations managers to commit to continuous learning and improvement.

CPD is beneficial for operations managers as it offers both opportunities to focus on the specifics of operations management, but also learn valuable transferable skills. This may include key areas such as leadership, communication, teamwork and strategic planning. CPD is also a means for operations professionals to stay ahead of market trends, innovations and technological developments and is an overall basis for continually upskilling a workforce.

CPD learning can also be a cost-effective option for individuals and organisations in operations management and it is often especially beneficial for smaller organisations who cannot afford to invest in expensive, bespoke training programmes. There is more reading on the benefits of CPD for small businesses in our previous article here.

CPD offers practical skills and knowledge from accredited providers and is also an opportunity to network with professionals from diverse backgrounds, allowing individuals to expand their professional network and gain valuable learning from peers' experiences.

The main professional body for operations management in the UK is The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT). Although CILT does not set annual CPD requirements, it actively promotes CPD for its members stating: “CILT have made a strong commitment to CPD and all members are expected to adopt the philosophy as part of their own career paths. Commitment to CPD will be seen as a key indicator when seeking to upgrade to higher levels of CILT membership”.  CILT provides guidance to members on planning and logging their CPD.

Where to find effective CPD for Operations Teams?

The CPD Certification Service works with a wide range of providers offering accredited CPD learning which may be beneficial to operations professionals looking to develop their skills and knowledge. Accredited CPD can provide reassurance as all learning materials have been reviewed and recognised for meeting the required industry standards.

There are many designated courses for operations management that have been certified by us. Operations teams can also engage with wider CPD in various forms, including courses, educational events, workshops and seminars. As well as these structured approaches to CPD, operations professionals can also participate in reflective and informal CPD, which can include publications, blogposts, podcasts and reading books.

Within the CPD Courses Catalogue, there are a range of specific courses for operations managers, as well as other beneficial CPD learning. To find out more about a particular CPD course listed on our website, complete an enquiry form and the details will be sent directly to the relevant CPD provider.

How to become an accredited CPD Provider

We hope this article was helpful. Established in 1996, The CPD Certification Service is the world’s leading and largest CPD accreditation organisation working across all industry sectors. If you are looking to provide training courses, seminars, conferences, workshops, eLearning or educational events that may be suitable for Continuing Professional Development, please visit the Become a CPD Provider page or contact our team to discuss in more detail.

Alternatively, if you are looking for a free online CPD record tool to help manage, track and log your ongoing Continuing Professional Development, as well as store your personal training record and CPD attendance certificates in one simple place, please visit the myCPD Portal page.