Careers for Operations Management MBA Graduates

Operations management is a business subject that deals with ensuring products are obtained in the most efficient, cost-effective manner while meeting customer standards. This article deals with possible careers operations management MBA grads may take.

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What are Career Options for an Operations Management MBA Graduate?

A graduate of an MBA in Operational Management may pursue careers in management of supply chain, consulting, operations strategy, logistics planning, inventory control, strategic planning and manufacturing strategy.

Operations Management MBA: Overview

Operations management MBA programs are designed to help students earn the qualifications required to work as an executive overseeing company operations. In addition to the core classes typically associated with a Master of Business Administration (MBA), the operations management concentration may include courses in quality, supply chain, global operations and project management, operations planning and service operations strategy.

Supply Chain Manager

Individuals working in management of supply chains may be called purchasing agents, buyers or purchasing managers. Their job entails buying services and goods for the company or organization that employs them. It is their job to get the best products for the lowest price. They must be knowledgeable about various suppliers, both domestic and foreign, and the factors that may affect supply. They usually are experienced in a particular type of merchandise and know how to analyze the buying preferences of customers.

BLS (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) predicts that jobs in this area will see average growth from 2008-2018, although some sectors may see faster growth in jobs. Purchasing managers made a median yearly wage of $91,440 in 2009, according to BLS (www.bls.gov).

Logistics Manager

A logistics manager works with the departments of purchasing, marketing and manufacturing to implement and manage supply chains (both export and import) that are cost-effective. They are responsible for developing strategies for distribution and creating and maintaining contacts with logistics intermediaries. They make sure that goods coming into the country from foreign markets meet U.S. and international export and import laws. In August 2010, logistics managers made $47,919 - $79,186 yearly (Payscale.com data).

Consultant

A consultant may work with a company to improve various aspects of its operations associated with logistics and supply chain management. He or she may bring into play information technology and use strategic planning to effect changes. A consultant may work on global optimization of a supply chain, selecting software and strategic sourcing. They may also assist clients in implementing a knowledge base along with logistical processes and tools to increase the client's profitability. A business consultant with an MBA made between $66,662 - $111,573 in Aug 2010, according to Payscale.com.

Inventory Control Manager

It is the job of an inventory control manager to create, perfect and put in place plans that minimize costs associated with inventory but meet customer service expectations. They oversee the system used for inventory management as well as any actual, physical inventory processes. They are responsible for inventory quality and the flow of inventory through the system. Payscale.com reports that inventory control managers made between $35,177 - $61,557 per year in Aug 2010.

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Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics