What are the major skills Operation manager must have to manage multiple branches?

The Operation Manager is expected to possess the following major skills:

1.     Technical skill: Expertise in operational issues such as Administration, Finance, Procurement, Human Resources and Information Technology as he/she has to supervise, advice and provide decision on these functional areas

2.     Analytical skill: Must be able to analyze complex issues and provide decision accordingly

3.     Soft Skills: Good Interpersonal skill, Communication skill, Team working skill, listening skill and motivational skill

4.     Leadership skill: Shall be able lead the entire operational Team

1.      Understands Customer Needs: A successful operations manager needs to have a deep acknowledgment of customer needs and understanding of what is a true measure of satisfaction to a customer. By knowing what makes your customers happy, he/ she needs to connect with them and provide guidance to your subordinates to take care of customers' needs.

2.      Communicates Effectively: An effective operations manager knows that communication needs to be done at different levels with all types of people. The ability to get your message across to your staff, your superiors and, most importantly, your customers is an essential skill that will be put to the test each day. Using a wide array of communication vehicles, including verbal, written and body language techniques, will allow you to establish a rapport with each audience.

3.      Understands The Organization's Financial Performance: Operations managers are directly responsible for contributing to their organizations' financial performance. A successful operations manager knows how to prepare sales projections and expense budgets, and analyze profit & loss statements and balance sheets. To simplify the process of creating financial projections, an efficient operations manager should utilize business planning software, which allows one to build a comprehensive set of financial projections, reports and charts in less time.

4.      Motivates The Team: A successful operations manager knows the importance of building a strong team and developing positive relationships among team members. This can be achieved by understanding and addressing the individual needs and concerns of your staff.

5.      Tracks And Measures Staff Performance: It's essential to set work objectives for each of your team members and be able to measure their progress. This will provide you with the clear base for employee recognition, but also for staff development. An effective operations manager should streamline the process of setting performance goals, evaluating employees and maintaining up-to-date training and certification information.