We use cookies

These cookies are used to improve your experience and deliver personalised content. To find out more, please see our Privacy Policy.

Is it okay if we use cookies?

Operations Manager Apprenticeship Level 5

Course Overview

Operations managers undertake leadership and management duties with teams and senior managers where there is a requirement to ensure that teams carry out their role to meet organisational goals. They are a key component of all types of business model where there is an operational area or department with a workforce to lead, manage and support.

The broad purpose of the occupation is a leadership role, with operational and project responsibilities. An operations manager will have responsibility for managing individuals or a team. They provide direction, instructions, and guidance to ensure the achievement of set goals. They are vital for the smooth functioning of all departments in any organisation and are often responsible for ensuring their function is correctly administered and maintained in line with legislation and the organisation’s policies and procedures.  Operations managers will provide clear, and inclusive leadership and direction relating to their area of responsibility within an organisation. Typically, this involves setting, managing, and monitoring achievement of core objectives that are aligned to the overall strategic objectives of their organisation. In a smaller organisation they are also likely to contribute to the execution and achievement of the strategic objectives.

Roles may include Operations Manager, Regional Manager, Area Manager, General Manager, Department Manager and Specialist Manager.

Units of study/what is involved

The apprenticeship standard covers a wide range of management skills and knowledge, including organisational performance, interpersonal skills and personal effectiveness, comprised of a range of duties which include:

  • Managing self
  • Awareness of self and others
  • Leading and managing others
  • Governance
  • Resource and Finance management
  • Operational Planning
  • Stakeholder Management
  • Change and risk management
  • Project Management

There is the potential to complete an additional CMI L5 Diploma in Management and Leadership at an additional cost of £609

Course Overview

Course Overview

Operations managers undertake leadership and management duties with teams and senior managers where there is a requirement to ensure that teams carry out their role to meet organisational goals. They are a key component of all types of business model where there is an operational area or department with a workforce to lead, manage and support.

The broad purpose of the occupation is a leadership role, with operational and project responsibilities. An operations manager will have responsibility for managing individuals or a team. They provide direction, instructions, and guidance to ensure the achievement of set goals. They are vital for the smooth functioning of all departments in any organisation and are often responsible for ensuring their function is correctly administered and maintained in line with legislation and the organisation’s policies and procedures.  Operations managers will provide clear, and inclusive leadership and direction relating to their area of responsibility within an organisation. Typically, this involves setting, managing, and monitoring achievement of core objectives that are aligned to the overall strategic objectives of their organisation. In a smaller organisation they are also likely to contribute to the execution and achievement of the strategic objectives.

Roles may include Operations Manager, Regional Manager, Area Manager, General Manager, Department Manager and Specialist Manager.

Units of study/what is involved

The apprenticeship standard covers a wide range of management skills and knowledge, including organisational performance, interpersonal skills and personal effectiveness, comprised of a range of duties which include:

  • Managing self
  • Awareness of self and others
  • Leading and managing others
  • Governance
  • Resource and Finance management
  • Operational Planning
  • Stakeholder Management
  • Change and risk management
  • Project Management

There is the potential to complete an additional CMI L5 Diploma in Management and Leadership at an additional cost of £609

Student Spotlight

Samuel Winchester, Operations/ Departmental Manager Higher Apprenticeship Level 5

This apprenticeship has taught me a new level of academic writing, which has given me confidence to write effective professional communications. My team is responsible for key organisational relationships with our partners in the Middle East; a high-pressure department and by undertaking this apprenticeship I feel better equipped for the challenges the role brings.

Assessment

Assessment Methods

  • Attendance at planned online sessions using MS Teams which will take place on Thursdays in accordance with the learning journey for those completing the Apprenticeship Standard only, or on Tuesdays using a hybrid delivery of online sessions and attendance at the Taunton campus for those completing the additional optional CMI Diploma in Management at Leadership.
  • Regular progress reviews and assessment feedback (involving your employer and your assessor / trainer)
  • Creation of a portfolio demonstrating learning and development activities within the workplace, underpinned by research and learning activities using CMi Management Direct.

Throughout the apprenticeship, you will work towards the End Point assessment (EPA) which will include:

  • Professional discussion, underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
  • Project report, presentation and questioning.

Entry Requirements and Progression

Progression

  • On completion, apprentices can register as full members with the Chartered Management Institute and/or the Institute of Leadership and Management, and those with 3 years of management experience can apply for Chartered Manager status through the CMI
  • L6 Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship for those in a suitable position.

Entry Requirements

  • You should have achieved qualifications in English and Mathematics at a minimum of level 2 (GCSE) or equivalent
  • You may hold management and leadership qualification such as the CMI Certificate in First Line Management, L3 ILM/ CMI, NVQ Level 4 in Management
  • You must be employed in a suitable position, or be progressing to a suitable role as part of your career development.

Fees

The course fee is £397.50* per year of study.

For more information regarding course fees, please read our 'Fees and Funding' page.

*Fees are subject to review annually. The fees for existing students may be increased annually in line with the Retail Price Index.

Policies and Regulations

Taunton Open Event - October

8th October 2025