General and Operations Managers: A Guide to Success
The role of a General and Operations Manager is vital in any organization as they are responsible for overseeing daily business operations, managing staff, implementing strategies, and ensuring the overall success of the company. Here, we explore what this occupation entails, provide examples of some common job titles, outline the necessary education and training, discuss career progression, and share insights for newcomers looking to enter the field.
What is a General and Operations Manager?
General and Operations Managers are responsible for coordinating and directing the daily activities of organizations to maximize efficiency and productivity. They play a key role in managing staff, budgets, resources, and processes to ensure the smooth functioning of the business.
These professionals are often found in various industries such as retail, manufacturing, healthcare, hospitality, and finance. They work in both small businesses and large corporations, adapting their management techniques to meet the needs and goals of their respective organizations.
Examples of General and Operations Manager Job Titles
- General Manager
- Operations Manager
- Plant Manager
- Branch Manager
- Store Manager
- Hotel Manager
- Restaurant Manager
- IT Operations Manager
- Supply Chain Manager
- Warehouse Manager
Education and Training
To become a General and Operations Manager, a solid educational foundation along with relevant training and experience are typically required. While the specific educational requirements may vary depending on the industry and organization, most employers prefer candidates with at least a bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, finance, or a related field.
Completing internships, participating in management training programs, and gaining practical experience in entry-level supervisory positions can greatly enhance one’s prospects in this field. Continuous learning and professional development are essential to stay up-to-date with evolving business trends and practices.
Career Progression
The career progression for General and Operations Managers often involves moving up the organizational ladder, taking on greater responsibilities and overseeing larger teams or multiple locations. The following career levels are commonly observed:
- Entry-level Manager
- Supervisor
- Middle Manager
- Senior Manager
- Director
- Vice President
- Chief Operating Officer (COO)
- Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Getting into the Field
If you are new to the field of General and Operations Management and wish to pursue a career in this area, here are some key steps to consider:
- Earn a relevant degree: Obtain a bachelor’s degree in a field such as business administration, management, or finance to gain a solid foundation in business principles and practices.
- Gain practical experience: Seek internships or entry-level positions in organizations to gain hands-on experience in managing teams, overseeing operations, and coordinating resources.
- Develop leadership skills: Focus on developing strong leadership qualities such as effective communication, decision-making, problem-solving, and strategic thinking.
- Continuously learn and adapt: Stay updated with industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies by pursuing professional development programs or certifications relevant to your industry.
- Network: Build relationships with professionals in the field through industry events, business associations, and online networking platforms. Networking can provide valuable insights, mentorship, and potential job opportunities.
- Apply for management positions: Use online job portals, company websites, and professional networks to find managerial openings in organizations that align with your career goals and interests.
With dedication, experience, and a commitment to ongoing professional growth, you can pave your way to a successful career as a General and Operations Manager.
Salary Data for General and Operations Managers
| Occupation | Job Level | Salary Data |
|---|---|---|
| General and operations managers | Level 07 | $53,227.20 – $52,603.20 |
| General and operations managers | Level 08 | $81,515.20 – $64,875.20 |
| General and operations managers | Level 09 | $74,131.20 |
| General and operations managers | Level 10 | $90,396.80 – $81,411.20 |
| General and operations managers | Level 11 | $135,969.60 – $113,297.60 |
| General and operations managers | Level 12 | $140,462.40 – $128,710.40 |
| General and operations managers | Not able to be leveled | $144,851.20 – $148,844.80 |
| General and operations managers | Nonunion | $120,328.00 – $126,297.60 |
| General and operations managers | Full-time | $125,944.00 – $127,712.00 |
| General and operations managers | Full-time Level 07 | $53,227.20 – $52,603.20 |
| General and operations managers | Full-time Level 08 | $81,515.20 – $64,875.20 |
| General and operations managers | Full-time Level 09 | $74,131.20 |
| General and operations managers | Full-time Level 10 | $90,292.80 – $81,244.80 |
| General and operations managers | Full-time Level 11 | $135,969.60 – $113,297.60 |
| General and operations managers | Full-time Level 12 | $140,462.40 – $128,710.40 |
| General and operations managers | Full-time Not able to be leveled | $149,780.80 – $152,984.00 |
| General and operations managers | Time-based pay | $122,241.60 – $125,216.00 |
| General and operations managers | Incentive-based pay | $133,827.20 – $132,953.60 |
| General and operations managers | San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | $188,385.60 – $176,342.40 |
| General and operations managers | Pocatello, ID | $67,080.00 – $67,953.60 |
The occupation of General and operations managers is classified into various job levels with corresponding salary data. The average U.S. national salary for general and operations managers at Level 07 ranges from $52,603.20 to $53,227.20. At Level 08, the average salary ranges from $64,875.20 to $81,515.20. Level 09 has a fixed average salary of $74,131.20, while Level 10 ranges from $81,411.20 to $90,396.80. For Level 11, the average salary ranges from $113,297.60 to $135,969.60, and for Level 12, it ranges from $128,710.40 to $140,462.40. There is also a category for General and operations managers that are not able to be leveled, with an average salary ranging from $144,851.20 to $148,844.80.
The salary data for General and operations managers varies for different employment conditions. For nonunion workers, the average salary ranges from $120,328.00 to $126,297.60. Full-time workers in general and operations management have an average salary ranging from $125,944.00 to $127,712.00. Specifically, at Level 07 and Level 08, the average salaries are the same as the national averages. Level 09 remains at a fixed average salary of $74,131.20, while Level 10 ranges from $81,244.80 to $90,292.80. For Level 11, the average salary ranges from $113,297.60 to $135,969.60, and for Level 12, it ranges from $128,710.40 to $140,462.40. Not able to be leveled full-time workers have an average salary ranging from $149,780.80 to $152,984.00.
Different pay structures can also affect the average salary of general and operations managers. Time-based pay for all levels has an average salary ranging from $122,241.60 to $125,216.00. Incentive-based pay for all levels has an average salary ranging from $132,953.60 to $133,827.20.
In terms of geographical differences, general and operations managers in the San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA area have significantly higher average salaries, ranging from $176,342.40 to $188,385.60. On the other hand, the average salaries for general and operations managers in Pocatello, ID are much lower, ranging from $67,080.00 to $67,953.60.
The presence of unions can have an impact on the job of general and operations managers. However, the provided salary data does not specify the effects of unions on this particular occupation.
