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
Operations Analyst (L2) to Senior Operations Manager (L3)
2-4 years as an Operations AnalystSkills to master
- Deep understanding of specific end-to-end processes, strong data analysis and root cause identification, initial experience leading small process improvement initiatives, effective stakeholder communication.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently delivering high-quality process analysis and identifying actionable improvements.
- Successfully leading 1-2 small-scale process optimisation projects (even if informally).
- Proactively taking ownership of complex operational problems and seeing them through to resolution.
- Demonstrating strong informal mentorship skills with new joiners or junior colleagues.
- 2
Project Manager (Junior/Mid) from other departments
3-5 years in project managementSkills to master
- Understanding of operational specificities, deep dive into process mapping and Lean methodologies, hands-on experience with operational tools (ERP, automation platforms), ability to translate project management theory into operational practice.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully managed operational or business transformation projects in previous roles.
- Demonstrated a keen interest in process efficiency and operational mechanics.
- A willingness to get into the 'weeds' of operational data and workflows.
- Proven ability to manage diverse stakeholders and drive project outcomes.
- 3
Consultant (Junior/Associate) from a consulting firm
2-4 years in consulting, focusing on operations or process improvementSkills to master
- Adapting consulting frameworks to an in-house operational context, building long-term relationships (not just project-based), hands-on implementation rather than just recommendation, understanding internal politics and culture.
You're ready to move on when
- Experience delivering operational efficiency projects for clients.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, used to structured approaches.
- A desire to move from advisory to direct ownership and implementation.
- Ability to integrate into an internal team culture and build credibility quickly.