The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
GBS Operations Manager (L5)
3-5 years as a high-performing GBS Operations Manager, demonstrating strategic impact beyond their immediate function.Skills to master
- P&L management for a significant service line, leading large teams (including managers), driving continuous improvement programmes, and managing complex internal client relationships.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully delivered £1M+ in annual cost savings or revenue generation.
- Consistently achieved high client satisfaction scores for their service line.
- Developed and promoted multiple direct reports into leadership positions.
- Led a major process transformation or technology implementation project end-to-end.
- 2
Head of a Major Business Unit Operations
5-7 years leading operations for a large business unit (e.g., Head of Finance Operations, Head of HR Operations) with a strong focus on process efficiency and service delivery.Skills to master
- Deep domain expertise, managing operational budgets, driving efficiency within a specific function, and experience with shared services models (even if not directly managing one).
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully optimised operational costs within their business unit by 15% or more.
- Implemented new operational technologies that significantly improved efficiency or service quality.
- Demonstrated strong cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management skills.
- Proven ability to lead and motivate large operational teams.
- 3
Management Consultant (Specialising in BPO/Shared Services)
8-10 years as a Senior Manager or Principal Consultant at a top-tier consulting firm, leading large-scale GBS/BPO transformation projects for clients.Skills to master
- Strategic advisory, programme management for complex transformations, client relationship management at executive levels, and a broad understanding of industry best practices.
You're ready to move on when
- Led multiple successful GBS strategy and implementation projects for diverse clients.
- Developed and sold significant consulting engagements (£500K+).
- Demonstrated strong thought leadership in the GBS/BPO space.
- Proven ability to manage complex stakeholder environments and drive change.