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
Process Analyst / Junior CI Specialist
2-3 yearsSkills to master
- Core process mapping (current state), basic data collection & analysis, understanding of Lean principles, effective documentation, and supporting workshops.
You're ready to move on when
- You can independently map a moderately complex process.
- You consistently identify 3-5 areas for improvement in any process you analyse.
- Your data analysis is accurate and leads to clear, actionable insights.
- You've successfully supported at least two small improvement projects from start to finish.
- 2
Operations Analyst / Business Analyst
3-4 yearsSkills to master
- Deep understanding of specific operational workflows, requirements gathering, data modelling, and translating business needs into technical specifications.
You're ready to move on when
- You've successfully delivered analytical insights that led to operational changes.
- You're the go-to person for understanding how a specific operational system works.
- You can clearly articulate the 'why' behind current operational processes.
- You've taken initiative to suggest improvements in your own operational area.
- 3
Junior Project Manager (with CI focus)
3-5 yearsSkills to master
- Project planning & execution, stakeholder management, risk identification, and delivering projects on time and budget.
You're ready to move on when
- You've managed several small projects successfully.
- You're good at organising people and tasks to achieve a goal.
- You've demonstrated an ability to identify and mitigate project risks.
- You actively look for ways to improve project delivery processes themselves.


