Program Overview

The Level 5 Operations Manager Apprenticeship develops high-performing managers capable of leading teams, driving operational performance, improving processes, and delivering strategic objectives.
This programme gives apprentices the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to manage people, budgets and projects while ensuring operational excellence, continuous improvement, and long-term organisational success.

It is suitable for individuals already in a supervisory, team leader or lower-management role who are ready to step into full operational responsibility.

Who This Programme Is For

This apprenticeship is ideal for:

• Aspiring or existing operations managers
• Departmental managers, team leaders, supervisors or project managers
• Individuals responsible for people leadership, resource planning or operational delivery
• Organisations looking to develop confident, capable managers who can deliver measurable performance improvements
• Private, public and third-sector employers of all sizes

What Apprentices Will Learn

The programme covers the full breadth of operational management responsibilities, including:

Operational Leadership & Management

• Translating strategy into operational plans
• Setting KPIs and performance standards
• Managing change and driving improvement

Project Management

• Planning, delivering and reviewing projects
• Risk management and problem-solving
• Using project tools and data to inform decisions

People Leadership

• Leading, motivating and engaging teams
• Coaching, mentoring and developing staff
• Managing performance, capability and conflict

Finance & Resource Planning

• Budget setting, forecasting and financial control
• Managing resources effectively to maximise efficiency
• Understanding financial implications of decisions

Relationship Management

• Building strong stakeholder relationships
• Effective communication, negotiation and influencing
• Managing third-party and cross-functional relationships

Governance, Compliance & Ethics

• Legal, regulatory and organisational compliance
• Equality, diversity and inclusion
• Sustainability, ethics and social responsibility

Key Skills Developed

• Decision-making and critical thinking
• Effective delegation
• Analytical skills
• Communication and presentation skills
• Operational planning and prioritisation
• Problem-solving and innovation
• Leadership presence and confidence

End-Point Assessment (EPA)

At gateway, the apprentice must have:

• Completed their portfolio
• Achieved Level 2 English & Maths (if required)
• Evidence of consistent performance in role

EPA Components:

1. Project Report & Presentation– a work-based project demonstrating operational improvement
2. Professional Discussion– underpinned by a portfolio of evidence

Grading:

Pass or Distinction.