What does a Director of Operations do?

Operations managers ensure a company or organization’s operations run smoothly and on time. They work with people, core operations, budgets, project delivery, and in company strategy. They are responsible for engaging and developing the members of the teams that they manage. Operations managers are involved in financial procedures, including invoicing. They must manage margins, costs, budgeting, and forecasting at the company.

Operations managers must match individuals to clients’ needs and balance objectives and goals equally from both sides, and they must strive to drive growth strategy and balance global needs. Sometimes they are called upon to support the production planning process or ensure key performance indicators are in place, and production targets are met. Operations managers need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in business or management or related fields.

What responsibilities are common for Director of Operations jobs?
  • Assist the Store Manager in protecting and securing all company assets, including store cash.
  • Manage internal product support systems and train all staff.
  • Assist the Store Manager in ensuring proper staffing coverage on a daily basis.
  • Assist with all store functions and day-to-day store activities as directed by the Store Manager.
  • Adhere to cash, key and dual control policies and procedures.
  • Assist with merchandising and maintain, the checkout area to maximize impulse sales.
  • Inventory supplies and complete restock of supplies on hand.
  • Collaborate with all corporate functions to ensure program success (HR, IT, Payroll, Finance, etc).
  • Provide support to the customer, including development of support automation tools.
  • Apply project management to assist operational projects as assigned.
  • Motivate, coach, mentor and develop frontline (hourly) staff.
  • Ensure load quality, timelines, and work efficiency goals are met.
  • Manage the development, tracking and reporting of annual MM/PS KPIs.
  • Report all accidents and injuries in a timely manner.
  • Plan, direct, control, and monitor the Operations department budget(s).
  • Involved in the hiring process and customer meetings as necessary.
What are the typical qualifications for Director of Operations jobs?
  • Bachelor's or Graduate's Degree in business or operations management or equivalent experience.
  • Excellent leadership skills.
  • Good at problem solving.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Collaborate well with others.
  • Focused on continuous improvement for the business and personal growth.
  • Excellent critical thinking and decision making skills.
  • Strong time management skills.
  • Understand and is experienced in budgets and budget planning.
  • Is able to multitask effectively and efficiently.
EducationBachelor's Degree
Work/Life Balance
3.5 ★
Salary Range--
Career Opportunity
3.7 ★
Avg. Experience5-7 years

Director of Operations Salaries

Average Base Pay

$108,365 /yr
Same as national average
Not including cash compensation
See More Insights
$70K
Median: $108K
$168K
See More Insights
Glassdoor Estimated Salary

Director of Operations Career Path

Learn how to become a Director of Operations, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

Director of Operations
$108,365/yr
Senior Director of Operations
$140,915/yr
Director of Operations

Years of Experience Distribution

0 - 1
4%
2 - 4
21%
5 - 7
49%
8+
26%
Not including years spent in education and/or training

Director of Operations Insights

Read what Director of Operations professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
AmazonAmazon
Operations Manager
Aug 2, 2021

“If you are not careful it is easy to lose a good work and life balance.”

SwimplySwimply
Operations
Oct 25, 2022

“Most of the people that work here are good people and great to work with.”

WayfairWayfair
Sr. Manager, Operations
Mar 22, 2023

“The operations team was incredible and we were doing so many fun and amazing projects.”

CompAsiaCompAsia
Executive Operations
Oct 26, 2022

“hoc projects going on which is challenging but brings a new experience for me and develops my skills.”

Favor TechConsultingFavor TechConsulting
Collection Operations Manager
Jun 2, 2021

“Pay and good mission (tho first contract in this field from what I was told)”

Schindler Elevator CorporationSchindler Elevator Corporation
Operations Manager
Dec 13, 2022

“Strong brand name Good low rise elevators and the best escalator in the market Great compensation”

Cosmetic Physician Partners
Regional Director of Operations
May 30, 2023

“Kindness matters and I am grateful that I get to work with this amazing team each day!”

Atomic DAtomic D
Operations
May 5, 2022

“Everyone is accepted and here to support one another in getting things done right and well!”

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Director of Operations Interviews

Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of operations managers

The typical day of an operations manager includes management of all aspects of a business's operations, including hiring, contracting, budgeting, and scheduling. They may also implement training programs. They're in charge of optimizing the day-to-day operations of a business, ensuring the company is able to meet its goals.

The best part about being an operations manager is that it's an important position in any business, making them in demand. Their work environment is versatile and may include both office and field time. Operations managers typically work a normal business schedule but may occasionally work weekends or evenings.

Yes, the average pay for an operations manager is $108,365 per year. Highly experienced operations managers who oversee multiple locations may earn even more, up to $168,319 per year. An operations manager position can also come with other benefits like retirement or insurance.

Working as an operations manager can be stressful at times. One of the challenges of the job is that the company relies on them to ensure the company is well-staffed with qualified employees and that they have the resources they need. It can also be a rewarding career.

Related Careers

Manager
$81,305
50% skills overlap
General Manager
$78,541
25% skills overlap
District Manager
$76,811
13% skills overlap
Store Manager
$52,318
38% skills overlap

Director of Operations jobs