Career roadmap
How to Become a General and Operations Manager
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a general and operations manager, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a general and operations manager: (1) earn a bachelor’s, (2) start as a supervisor, (3) manage a department, (4) learn finance and operations, (5) become a GM. Most people need about 5+ years of experience. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a general and operations manager
Earn a bachelor’s
Business or related.
Start as a supervisor
Lead a shift or team.
Manage a department
Build results.
Learn finance and operations
Cross-train.
Become a GM
Run the site.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree in business or a related field is typical, plus years of experience.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | 5 years or more |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 5+ years of experience |
Certifications and licenses
- Lean Six Sigma: Process improvement.
- PMP: Project management.
- APICS CPIM: Operations planning.
- MBA: Optional graduate degree.
Skills to build now
Start with operations management, budgeting, and process improvement, and practice leadership and problem-solving. Learning the general and operations manager vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Supervisor: Lead a team.
- Department Manager: Lead a function.
- General Manager: Run a site.
- Regional or VP Operations: Lead many sites.
Get a head start
Our self-paced General and Operations Manager training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do I need a degree?
Usually a bachelor’s, though experience can count heavily.
How long does it take to become a general and operations manager?
Most people need about 5+ years of experience of training. A bachelor’s degree in business or a related field is typical, plus years of experience.
Do you need a degree to be a general and operations manager?
Usually, yes. BLS lists a bachelor's degree as the typical entry-level education, although skills, certifications and experience can sometimes substitute.
What certifications are available for general and operations managers?
Common credentials include Lean Six Sigma, PMP, APICS CPIM, and MBA. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 11-1021 (General and operations managers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for General and operations managers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.