Operations Management

Kritika Mathur | Manager | Envecologic

What is Operations Management?

There are many nuances of a Career in Operations Management. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to find information about What Operations Management actually is. Most pages on the internet just talk about How to get into Operations Management. The internet is a great source of information on Operations Management, but it is second best to learning about the same from a real professional.

Manager Kritika Mathur has 1 year & 7 months of professional experience in Operations Management. Manager Kritika Mathur describes Operations Management as:

Operations management is an area of management concerned with designing and controlling the process of production and redesigning business operations in the production of goods or services. It involves the responsibility of ensuring that business operations are efficient in terms of using as few resources as needed and effective in terms of meeting customer requirements.

How Manager Kritika Mathur got into Operations Management?

After graduating from Sri Venkateshwara College, DU with Bcom (Hons) degree, I worked with an audit firm and later with PFC Consulting Ltd as part of their Finance team. Currently, I am the Operations Manager at Envecologic.

Manager Kritika Mathur's Talk on Operations Management

Understanding Operations Management: Insights from Kritika Mathur In the vast world of business, Operations Management stands as a crucial pillar that drives efficiency and effectiveness in various organizational processes. Kritika Mathur, an experienced Operations Manager, shares her insights and experiences in this dynamic field, offering a glimpse into what it takes to excel in operations management. With her well-rounded background and a commitment to continual learning, Kritika provides a compelling overview that illustrates the intricacies of this multi-faceted role. What Is Operations Management? Operations Management Defined Operations Management involves the planning, organizing, and supervising of production processes, ensuring that a company effectively converts resources into goods and services. Kritika emphasizes that it is not limited to a single domain; instead, it encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, from human resources and data management to finance and administration. It requires a holistic approach and an in-depth understanding of various facets of the business, making it vital for organizational success. This broad scope of operations management ensures that all elements of the business function seamlessly. For instance, Kritika's role involves overseeing different operational aspects while maintaining an organized flow of information and resources, demonstrating how comprehensive management can contribute to a smooth operational environment. Education General Management A deep understanding of general management principles is essential for anyone looking to enter operations management. This foundational knowledge helps managers oversee various business functions effectively. Kritika notes that aspiring operations managers must familiarize themselves with multiple disciplines to balance the needs of each area and contribute to a cohesive business strategy. Having a well-rounded educational background equips professionals with the insight needed to handle complex situations. For instance, during her tenure at PFC Consulting, Kritika was required to apply her knowledge from her B.Com Honours program to navigate various operational challenges, reinforcing the importance of general management education. Resource Management Resource management pertains to the efficient and effective allocation of a company’s resources, which is vital in operations management. Kritika explains that this includes both human resources and other tangible assets, ensuring that they are utilized optimally to meet organizational goals. For example, as an Operations Manager, Kritika must analyze the available resources and strategize their usage to ensure that various projects run on time and within budget. This skill not only enhances productivity but also ensures that the organization functions smoothly, highlighting the core responsibility of an operations manager. Finance Management Understanding finance is another critical component necessary for operations management, especially in smaller organizations or startups. Kritika notes that operations managers often need to be knowledgeable about basic accounting principles, taxation, and financial models. This knowledge facilitates better decision-making when it comes to budgeting and resource allocation. For instance, her experience in handling the finances at EnvecoLogic involved developing financial models that supported operations, emphasizing the integral connection between finance and effective operations management. Business Administration Administrative knowledge complements the operational role by ensuring that every facet of the organization runs smoothly. Kritika describes how operations managers are responsible for everything from logistics to office administration, emphasizing the versatility required in this position. Effective business administration ensures that the team has the necessary tools and resources to perform their jobs efficiently. By managing daily administrative tasks, Kritika helps maintain a productive environment, demonstrating how essential administration is to operations management. Domain Knowledge Having expertise in the specific domain of the organization is crucial, even for those without a technical background. Kritika stresses that an operations manager should know enough about their industry to engage with technical staff and understand the services offered by the business. This domain knowledge not only facilitates better communication but also increases the operational manager's effectiveness. Kritika's role in the energy sustainability sector, despite her non-technical background, showcases the significance of understanding the industry deeply to drive operational success. Skills Communication Effective communication is foundational in operations management. Kritika highlights that successful operations managers must articulate their thoughts clearly and engage in active listening. Good communication facilitates collaboration across departments and enhances relationships with external partners. For instance, when handling client communications, Kritika's ability to express ideas succinctly ensures that all stakeholders remain aligned on project goals. This skill is vital for fostering a cohesive work environment and for effective business communication. Networking Kritika underscores the importance of networking in operations management as a catalyst for business growth. Building connections can lead to strategic partnerships, collaborations, and new business opportunities, making networking an essential skill. She emphasizes that effective networking is not just about meeting people, but rather establishing meaningful relationships that can benefit the organization. By actively engaging with industry professionals, Kritika has been able to expand her circle and, consequently, the reach of her organization. Strategic Alliances Creating strategic alliances is an integral part of operations management. According to Kritika, forming mutually beneficial partnerships can enhance the organization's capability to meet project requirements effectively. For example, partnering with another organization that possesses complementary skills allows both parties to leverage each other’s strengths. Kritika’s understanding of strategic alliances illustrates how operations managers can collaborate with others to enhance service offerings and capture new business opportunities. Research Research skills enable operations managers to stay informed about industry trends and best practices. Kritika emphasizes that while being the lead researcher may not be part of her role, the ability to conduct research ensures effective decision-making and strategic planning. By staying updated with the latest developments, Kritika can implement innovative practices in her operations. This proactive approach allows her organization to adapt to changes in the market, ensuring a competitive edge. Time Management Effective time management is crucial in operations management, where juggling multiple responsibilities is the norm. Kritika notes that the ability to prioritize tasks and allocate time efficiently is vital for meeting deadlines and maintaining productivity. In her day-to-day activities, Kritika demonstrates sound time management by creating to-do lists and checking off completed tasks, ensuring that she remains focused and organized. This discipline is key to achieving operational goals in a fast-paced environment. Presentation Skills Being able to present ideas clearly and confidently is a vital skill for operations managers. Kritika believes that effective presentation skills significantly impact an operations manager’s ability to convey important information to both internal and external stakeholders. For instance, whether preparing PowerPoint presentations for strategic meetings or communicating project updates, Kritika's ability to present information articulately ensures that key messages are delivered effectively. This skill supports her role in promoting the organization’s operational achievements. People Management Managing people effectively is central to operations management. Kritika emphasizes that knowing how to delegate appropriately and understanding team members' strengths and weaknesses is key to successful leadership. In her position, Kritika engages in regular check-ins with her team to delegate tasks that match their individual capabilities. This approach not only enhances team productivity but also fosters a supportive work environment, highlighting the importance of strong people management skills. Continuously Updating The field of operations management is ever-evolving, and continuous learning is essential for success. Kritika stresses that staying updated with new technologies, methods, and industry trends is critical for maintaining relevance and performing effectively. By regularly attending workshops and engaging in professional development, Kritika ensures her skills remain sharp. This commitment to learning contributes to innovative problem-solving and effective management strategies in her role. Positives Multi-dimensional Field One of the most significant advantages of pursuing a career in operations management is its multi-dimensional nature. Kritika appreciates that her role requires engagement in various aspects of the business, preventing monotony and fostering continuous learning. This variety keeps her work engaging and stimulating, as she collaborates with different teams and handles diverse tasks. For those who thrive in dynamic environments, operations management presents exciting opportunities for growth and exploration. Travelling For travel enthusiasts, operations management offers the potential for frequent travel. Kritika mentions that her role allows her to explore new locations and interact with various stakeholders, which adds an adventurous element to her career. This aspect not only satisfies her wanderlust but also enriches her professional experience by exposing her to diverse business practices and cultures. The opportunity to travel for work is a notable perk that many find appealing in this field. Intellectual Stimulation Kritika enjoys the intellectual stimulation that comes from the challenges faced in operations management. The necessity to adapt and innovate ensures that she remains constantly engaged and on her toes. This continuous challenge fosters a mindset of personal growth, pushing her to develop new skills and strategies. The intellectual rigor required in operations management is a fulfilling aspect that attracts many professionals to this career path. Job Satisfaction A significant benefit of working in operations management is the inherent job satisfaction derived from effective performance. Kritika believes that as she tackles various challenges and achieves operational goals, her sense of accomplishment fuels her desire to continue in the field. With every successful project or efficient operational overhaul, she gains a renewed sense of purpose and fulfillment, emphasizing how job satisfaction is one of the most motivating factors for professionals in this domain. Challenges Technical Alignment Navigating the technical aspects of operations management can present challenges, especially for those from non-technical backgrounds. Kritika acknowledges that a fundamental understanding of technical data and systems is necessary for effective management. She shares that even though her expertise is from a commerce background, she has taken the initiative to learn about the technical dimensions of her industry. This commitment to understanding technical requirements enhances her ability to manage those elements effectively. Accountability Operations managers bear a high level of accountability, overseeing multiple facets of the business. Kritika points out that with the freedom to manage various operations comes the responsibility to ensure all tasks are completed satisfactorily and on time. This accountability can be demanding as it involves managing expectations from different stakeholders while ensuring deadlines are met. Operations professionals must balance this pressure with their responsibilities efficiently to thrive. No Fixed Hours The unpredictable nature of operations management can lead to irregular working hours. Kritika highlights that the need for availability across different time zones or for urgent client issues often extends her working hours. While this flexibility can be a double-edged sword, effective operations managers must be prepared to adapt to unpredictable demands. This challenge underscores the need for strong time management and the ability to prioritize tasks. A Day Of Operations Management Kritika's typical workday illustrates the multifaceted responsibilities of an Operations Manager. She begins by checking emails and addressing outstanding issues while organizing her tasks for the day. Engaging with team members and interns keeps her connected to ongoing projects and ensures everything runs smoothly. Throughout her day, Kritika performs various tasks, from maintaining financial records to strategizing with her superiors on operational plans. She keeps track of what needs to be accomplished and regularly assesses her progress, ensuring that her team remains on target. This structured approach at work not only exemplifies effective time management but also shows the dedication required of operations managers to oversee a complex and dynamic operational environment. Conclusion Operations management offers a fulfilling and dynamic career path rich with opportunities for personal growth and professional development. With insights from Kritika Mathur, it is clear that this field demands a unique blend of skills, knowledge, and adaptability. The various roles intertwine creativity, responsibility, and the necessity for continuous improvement, making operations management an invaluable component of any successful organization. For those who embrace the challenges and opportunities within this domain, the rewards of job satisfaction and ongoing intellectual engagement are well worth the effort.

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How to get into

Operations Management?

If you are want to get into Operations Management, start by investing in a Career Plan.

The 14 hour process, guided by a LifePage Career Advisor, will help you introspect and check whether your interest in Operations Management is merely an infatuation or is it truly something you wish to do for the rest of your life.

Next, your Career Advisor will help you document how you can get into Operations Management, what education and skills you need to succeed in Operations Management, and what positives and challenges you will face in Operations Management.

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LifePage Plan will not stop at saying "to become an Architect study Architecture". It will guide you on which Certifications, Trainings and Other items you need to do along with your Architecture education to become the world's best Architect.

Links for this Talk

Manager Kritika Mathur's LifePage:

[LifePage]
https://www.lifepage.in/page/kritikamathur

LifePage Career Talk on Operations Management

[Career]
https://www.lifepage.in/careers/operations-management-1

[Full Talk]
https://lifepage.app.link/20180118-0005

[Trailer]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ooq22Ha1ag8

(Operations Management, Kritika Mathur, Envecologic, Business, Management, Operations, Business Administration)

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