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
Director of Global Finance Operations / Shared Services
5-10 years at Director levelSkills to master
- Scaling global operations, managing multi-functional teams (50-100+), driving large-scale automation, P&L management for a significant operational budget.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully led the consolidation of multiple regional operational centres into a single global hub.
- Consistently delivered multi-million pound cost savings through process optimisation and technology adoption.
- Built and developed a strong leadership bench within your previous organisation.
- Presented regularly to the executive team on operational performance and strategic initiatives.
- 2
VP of Operations (Non-Finance specific)
7-12 years at VP level in a broader operational roleSkills to master
- Enterprise supply chain management, manufacturing operations, broader business process re-engineering, large-scale logistics, and distribution.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully managed complex operational functions beyond finance, demonstrating versatility.
- Led significant improvements in operational efficiency and customer satisfaction across diverse functions.
- Proven ability to integrate disparate operational systems and processes post-M&A.
- Strong track record of managing large, unionised or highly regulated workforces.
- 3
Senior Partner / Principal at a Management Consulting Firm (Operations Focus)
10+ years as a senior consultantSkills to master
- Client relationship management, complex problem structuring, solution design for diverse industries, leading large consulting engagements, business development.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently advised C-suite clients on operational strategy and transformation.
- Led multiple successful large-scale operational change programmes for Fortune 500 companies.
- Developed and sold significant consulting engagements related to operational excellence or shared services.
- Recognised as a thought leader in operational strategy within the consulting industry.