AI for Operations Leaders

Operations managers, supply chain leaders, logistics managers, production supervisors, facilities managers, warehouse operations leads, quality & compliance managers, and anyone responsible for processes, workflows, teams, or systems in operations. This is NOT for individual contributors - it's for leaders managing teams through AI transformation.

No. We start from the fundamentals: what AI is, where it delivers ROI in operations, ethics, governance. The programme assumes no prior technical knowledge. It's built for operations leaders, not data scientists. You'll learn alongside your team and emerge with practical, applied understanding.

£0 out-of-pocket. The £18,000 apprenticeship cost is 100% funded by your payroll levy. If you don't have a levy account or need help accessing funds, TESS can guide you. Apprentices over 19 at start cost 5% shared (£900). The government covers 95%. For smaller companies without levy, alternative funding routes exist - talk to us.

All sessions are delivered via live online workshops (Zoom or Microsoft Teams), so your team can learn from their desks - no travel or venue costs required. We deliver nationwide across England, running closed cohorts so your team learns together. Face-to-face delivery can be arranged on request.

15–18 months, including EPA (End-Point Assessment). The first 12–14 months cover the 15 modules and leadership development. Months 15–18 focus on the workplace AI project, portfolio building, and independent assessment. Pace adapts to your apprentice's progress and your business needs.

Your apprentice identifies and delivers a real AI or automation project in your operations. Examples: supply chain optimisation, demand forecasting, process automation, quality control enhancement, or logistics route optimisation. They own it end-to-end: scoping, implementation, measurement, and stakeholder communication. Real impact. Real ROI. Real proof of competence.

Yes. TESS handles training delivery, curriculum pacing, EPA coordination with 1st for Awarding, progress tracking, and compliance reporting. You manage the apprentice's day job and provide a workplace mentor. We guide you on all apprenticeship regulations, record-keeping, and support needed for successful completion. Full partnership.

EPA resits are available. TESS provides support and additional coaching to address gaps. Even if an apprentice doesn't achieve Distinction, they've completed the 15-module curriculum, earned 4 qualifications (CMI, NCFE, Microsoft), and developed significant AI and leadership capability. The programme delivers value beyond the EPA grade.

Absolutely. CMI Level 5, NCFE certifications, and Microsoft AB-730 are portable. Your apprentice can carry them to any employer. That's the power of industry-recognised credentials - they're not locked to your company. They improve career prospects and earning potential across the sector.