OVERVIEW
What is a Business Operations Specialist?
A business operations specialist collaborates with almost every team within an organization (particularly finance, human resources, accounts receivable, supply chain, and technology) to find areas for improvement and implement strategic initiatives. They utilize data analysis, project management methodologies, and industry best practices to eliminate inefficiencies.
Business operations specialists also contribute to strategic planning by analyzing market trends, naming growth opportunities, and recommending strategies to optimize business operations in alignment with organizational objectives.
RESPONSIBILITIES
What Does a Business Operations Specialist Do?
Business operations specialists wear many hats to drive efficiency and elevate an organization's operations. Some of their most common day-to-day tasks include:
Analyzing and improving organizational processes for maximum efficiency: This includes conducting in-depth analyses of existing methods, identifying bottlenecks, and implementing strategies for business development.
Identifying and implementing cost-saving strategies: Business operations specialists closely examine financial aspects of operations, finding opportunities for cost reduction and implementing strategies to maximize cost efficiency without compromising product or service quality.
Collaborating with various departments to streamline operations: Business operations specialists should work closely with different teams to ensure seamless coordination and alignment of operational goals.
Developing and maintaining performance metrics and reports: Business operations specialists establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to evaluate different operational areas.
Implementing and monitoring process improvement initiatives: This involves overseeing the effectiveness of enhancement initiatives, tracking progress, and making adjustments to drive consistent improvements.
Ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations: These professionals must stay current with industry regulations and standards. An essential part of the job is ensuring that operational processes align with legal and regulatory requirements.
Assisting with project management and resource allocation: Business operations specialists actively participate in project management activities, supporting the planning, execution, and monitoring of projects.
Where Does a Business Operations Specialist Work?
Business operations specialists can find employment in almost any industry, including manufacturing, healthcare, finance, and technology. They may work for large corporations, small businesses, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations. Some specialists also work as consultants, offering their expertise to multiple organizations.
EDUCATION & BEST DEGREES
How Do I Become a Business Operations Specialist?
To become a business operations specialist, consider the following steps:
1. Get an Education
A bachelor's degree in business administration, management, or a related job is typically the minimum requirement for entry-level positions. However, some employers may prefer candidates with a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a specialized master's degree in operations management. Additional business analytics, supply chain management, or quality control coursework can also be beneficial.
2. Gain Work Experience
Relevant work experience is vital to becoming a business operations specialist. Many employers look for candidates who have worked in a related operational role or completed internships within a company's operations department. Look for opportunities to take on projects that involve process improvement, data analysis, or project management.
3. Develop Technical Skills
Familiarize yourself with industry-standard tools and methods used in business operations management, such as Six Sigma for process improvement, or project management software for optimizing project timelines and resource allocation.
4. Network
Networking within the business operations field can provide you with job leads, industry information, and potential mentors who can offer invaluable advice and guidance. Consider joining professional associations or attending industry conferences to meet others in the field.
5. Keep Learning
The business operations field constantly evolves, so staying informed about the latest trends and methodologies is essential. Consider pursuing additional certifications or continuing education to remain competitive in the job market.
Best Degrees for a Business Operations Specialist
Business
Supply Chain and Operations Management - B.S.
This online supply chain and operations management program will prepare...
This online supply chain and operations management program will prepare you for real-world experiences in business.
- Time: 61% of graduates finish similar programs within 19 months.
- Tuition: $3,755 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 36 courses in this program.
Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:
- Project Management
- Strategic Planning
- Detail Oriented
- Management
- Leadership
- Operations:
Business
Finance – B.S.
This online finance program is career-focused so you will gain relevant...
This online finance program is career-focused so you will gain relevant industry skills.
- Time: 62% of graduates finish similar programs within 24 months
- Tuition: $3,755 per 6-month term
- Courses: 41 courses in this program
Some careers and jobs this business degree will prepare you for:
- Management
- Accounting
- Finance
- Spreadsheets
- Financial Analysis
- Problem Solving
The competency-based model at WGU allows you to move as quickly as you can master the material, and do your coursework on your schedule. Flexibility is key with the B.S. in finance at WGU.
Business
Master of Business Administration
The flexible MBA program you need, focused on business management,...
The flexible MBA program you need, focused on business management, strategy, and leading teams:
- Time: Graduates can finish in 12 months
- Tuition: $4,755 per 6-month term
- Courses: 11 total courses in this program
Skills for your résumé you will learn in this program include:
- Leadership strategies
- Talent management
- Communication
- Data collection and interpretation
- Financial statements
Our competency-based model gives you an innovative learning experience you won't find anywhere else—and our MBA grads tell us they loved accelerating their program to see a faster ROI.
Business
Business Management – B.S.
Hone your business acumen and garner added respect:...
Hone your business acumen and garner added respect:
- Time: 61% of graduates finish within 19 months
- Tuition: $3,755 per 6-month term
- Courses: 40 total courses in this program
Skills for your résumé this program will teach you include:
- Business communication
- Product development
- Decision making models
- Project management strategies
- Budgeting for business
This online degree program is an excellent choice for kick-starting your organizational management career.
Business
Supply Chain Fundamentals Certificate – School of Business
Boost your résumé and gain valuable experience with a supply chain...
Boost your résumé and gain valuable experience with a supply chain fundamentals certificate from the School of Business.
- Time: 6 months from start to finish.
- Cost: $2,500 for the certificate.
- Courses: 4 courses total in this program.
This program is designed for individuals who are ready to take their supply chain experience to the next level and become a front-line leader in their organization.
Whether you want to advance your career in this field, or you're just getting started, a supply chain fundamentals certificate can help you be ready for your next career step. You'll be prepared to work in a variety of industries including:
- Startups
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing
- IT
- Retail
- E-Commerce
Business
Management Skills for Supervisors Certificate - School of Business
Enhance your résumé and take a step in your educational journey with the...
Enhance your résumé and take a step in your educational journey with the help of a management skills for supervisors certificate from the School of Business.
- Time: 4 months from start to finish.
- Cost: $1,200 for the certificate.
- Courses: 3 courses total in this program.
This program is for aspiring supervisors, however this program does not require a bachelor’s degree, and provides transferable credit towards a WGU degree program.
Whether you are an aspiring manager, transitioning into a management role for the first time, or already working as a supervisor and looking to refine your skills, this certificate prepares you for success in a variety of industries, including:
- Manufacturing
- Healthcare
- Retail
- Hospitality
- Fast Food
How Much Does a Business Operations Specialist Make?
$80,220
The salary of a business operations specialist can vary widely based on factors such as industry, location, experience, and education. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for operational managers is $80,220. However, in metropolitan areas or within competitive industries, salaries can trend toward the higher end of this range. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end, while specialists with a significant amount of experience or advanced degrees could earn more than the average.
What Is the Projected Job Growth?
6%
The job outlook for business operations specialists is solid and promising, with a 6% projected growth in employment from 2022 to 2032—faster than the average for all occupations. This demand is driven by the need for organizations to operate more efficiently and to find ways to reduce costs while driving revenue, ensuring a secure and stable career path for aspiring specialists.
SKILLS
What Skills Does a Business Operations Specialist Need?
Effective business operations specialists possess hard and soft skills that allow them to excel. Some of these skills include:
Analytical thinking: Business operations specialists must be able to analyze complex data to identify trends and make strategic recommendations for improvement.
Communication: Strong communication skills are vital for specialists as they lead teams, present findings, and advocate for operational changes with other company stakeholders.
Leadership: A specialist’s ability to inspire, guide, and manage a team is essential for overseeing and improving organizational operational processes.
Project management: A business operation specialist needs expertise in breaking down complex projects into manageable tasks, coordinating resources, and ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget.
Change management: Specialists must adapt operational processes to business needs and lead teams through those changes in a positive and constructive manner.
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