How to become An Operations Analyst

Operations Analysts use their hard-earned mathematical, engineering, scientific, and computer programming skills to analyse complex data sets, identify opportunities/flaws, and make recommendations to enhance their organisation’s operational efficiency.

• Operations Research Analyst
• OR Analyst
• Operations Researcher

What do Operations Analysts do?

An Operations Analyst would typically need to:

• Use data analysis and statistical forecasting to enhance the efficiency of business operations through innovative solutions
• Observe workflows, read company reports, and conduct employee interviews to identify operational requirements and define operational issues
• Gather and organise data from valid sources such as computer databases, sales histories, and customer feedback
• Accumulate input on the issue from all stakeholders and experts to help solve the problem
• Study the data to retain the relevant matter and hit upon the best way to analyse it
• Use statistical analysis, simulations, and predictive modelling to review the data and develop feasible solutions to business problems
• Offer advice on the consequences of specific courses of action taken to rectify an issue
• Prepare and submit memos and reports to explain their findings and recommendations to higher management and end-users
• Develop new processes and procedures to enhance operations; work with managers and employees to implement changes
• Train employees in using the new systems or following new processes; determine the effectiveness of the new systems/processes
• Establish, maintain and ensure adherence to valid quality standards
• Undertake diverse calculations, analyses, and audits of financial and operational results involving supply chain principles
• Review, classify, audit, and record information in the correct files systems to guarantee data integrity
• Seek professional advice and interpretation to ensure processes and operations comply with current laws, rules, and regulations
• Develop metrics and goals for programs and present the data to all stakeholders; prepare templates to ensure operations meet expectations without fail

Operations Analysts work for the most part at their desks or in computer rooms, although they may need to spend time in the field to gather data and observe business processes first hand.

They usually work in multidisciplinary teams to develop practical solutions to complex issues. Travel may be necessary to work with clients and company executives and attend conferences.

Most Operations Analysts work full-time, around 40 hours a week, except when they put in extra time to meet deadlines.

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Operations Analysts can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies.

Operation Analysts are generally employed by: 

• Finance & Insurance Sector
• Professional, Technical & Scientific Consultancies
• Management of Companies & Enterprises
• The Manufacturing Industry
• Government Agencies
• The Military
• Transportation & Logistics Firms
• The Healthcare Industry

Professional associations and organisations are crucial for Operation Analysts interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Health issues due to the passive nature of the job
• Significant time spent on spreadsheets and maths 

Candidates with at least three years of experience in an executive assistant, business operations specialist, or business office specialist role will stand a better chance of being selected as Operations Analysts. Their experience would have included using Microsoft Office applications, Mac OS (operating systems), iOS, and statistical and database software.

Read about the profession and interview/job shadow experts working in operations analysis to prove your commitment to prospective employers. 

Although an accredited bachelor's degree or an HND(Higher National Diploma) is typically sufficient for entry-level work, employers increasingly prefer to recruit candidates with an accredited master's or doctoral degree in business administration, management science, or operations research.

A thorough grounding in applied mathematics, computers, and data processing systems will further help you stand out among your peers. An MSBA (Master of Science in Business Analytics that covers software, modelling, machine learning, and analytics methods in greater depth has become a popular choice lately.

However, applicants with degrees in engineering, computer science, economics, analytics, or mathematics also stand a fair chance of getting the job. If you plan to work in a specific field, combine a mathematics degree with a bachelor's degree in that field.

Focus on mathematics, economics, and computer science in high school.

Certification demonstrates an operational analyst's competence in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, and passing an examination.

Certifications in Lean Six Sigma methodology, financial analysis, accounting, financial management and project management from an objective and reputed organisation can help you stand out in a competitive job market, increase your chances of advancement, and become an independent consultant. Successful certification programs protect public welfare by incorporating a Code of Ethics.

Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications drive the career progression of Operations Analysts who can steadily advance to more sophisticated roles.

You may begin as a junior member of an operations analysis team and work your way up to Operations Manager or Ops Supervisor. Branching out on your own as a Consultant is a viable option once you have gained adequate experience and built a solid network.

Planning and management skills that you will acquire as an Operations Analyst will facilitate your transition into a Corporate Executive role such as Senior Financial Analyst or even VP of Operations.

Candidates with extensive knowledge of mathematics, computers & electronics, English, engineering & technology, and administration & management have the best job prospects.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Operations Analyst build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning. 

All newly hired analysts with or without prior experience are frequently given on-the-job training by their employers. An insight into the organisation’s work will provide a running start when tackling its operational challenges.

Make the most of any opportunities your employer may offer to obtain advanced degrees or enhance your communication, analytical, problem-solving, time management, consulting, and project management skills to continue to achieve exceptional results in a fast-paced and challenging environment.

The icing on the Cake

Not only does an Operations Analyst have a stable career that teaches long-lasting skills, but they also enjoy attractive benefits such as paid holidays and vacations, health and life insurance, and pension plans.

The Current Scenario

Technological advances make data more accessible to companies whose desire for increased efficiency and cost savings keeps pushing the demand for competent Operational Analysts, especially in analytics, where they can enhance business planning and decision making.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Operations Analysts have more flexible work schedules and locations. They have full ownership of the business and select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort, and risk.

On the other hand, Full-time Operations Analysts have company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

It seems highly technical, but the execution of operational analysis is pretty simple and well worth the effort.

A job as an Operations Analyst comes with an awesome paycheck, incredible job satisfaction, and guaranteed promotions. And if those aren't enough to make up your mind, take a moment to think about how you will facilitate the decision-making process to help the organisation grow efficiently. 

“I need employees to have an intellectual curiosity about data as well as a true understanding of business problems and real company experiences, and that comes from an advanced degree and from doing internships to get exposure to real data and real problems."

Anne Robinson, CSO Kinaxis