The AI-powered route is already approved.
Skills England closed government funding for new starts on the Operations Manager L5 standard (ST0385) on 1 September 2026. AI for Operations Leaders L4 is a Level 4 AI and automation apprenticeship for operations managers, with a CMI Level 5 qualification and leadership workshops as a complimentary add-on.
This Standard Has Been Defunded
Looking for the AI-Powered Replacement?
AI for Operations Leaders L4 develops the same operational leadership and change skills, enhanced by AI and automation. Comes with a CMI Level 5 qualification as a complimentary add-on. Funding for that route is confirmed on the discovery call.
View the AI-Powered ProgrammeOperations & Departmental Manager Level 5
Closed to new starts
Operations / Departmental Manager Level 5 has been defunded, so we cannot enrol new learners on a government funded start. Apprentices who started before 1 September 2026 continue to be funded through to completion. The standard remains available for privately funded apprentices. A strong option for the same people is AI for Operations Leaders (Level 4), with a CMI Level 5 as a complimentary add-on.
Master operational strategy, resource management, and departmental leadership. Transform team leaders into strategic operations managers with a CMI Level 5 qualification.
Built for Every Operational Role
Operations & Logistics
Streamline processes, manage supply chains, optimise resources, and lead teams to deliver consistent results.
Financial Operations
Manage budgets, forecasting, cost control, and P&L responsibility. Make data-driven financial decisions.
HR Operations & People
Master performance management, coaching, talent development, and employee engagement.
Project & Programme Management
Lead cross-functional projects from scoping to delivery. Apply agile and waterfall methodologies.
Change & Continuous Improvement
Champion operational transformation with Lean, Six Sigma, and change management models.
General Management
Governance, compliance, strategic planning, and decision-making for department heads and area managers.
Twelve Core Learning Modules
The comprehensive curriculum for advanced operations management, delivered across the 18-month programme.
Strategic Planning & Vision
Develop enterprise-level strategic thinking and long-term operational planning aligned with organisational vision and objectives.
Operations Excellence
Master systems, processes, and continuous improvement methodologies to drive operational efficiency and effectiveness.
Supply Chain Management
Optimize supply chain strategies and management to enhance resilience, efficiency, and strategic alignment.
Financial Management
Control operational budgets and financial resources strategically to support business objectives and growth.
Quality & Compliance
Establish and maintain quality standards, compliance frameworks, and risk management across operations.
Technology & Innovation
Leverage technology adoption and digital innovation to transform operations and competitive advantage.
Team Leadership
Build and develop high-performing teams with clear direction, motivation, and performance management strategies.
Change Management
Lead organisational change initiatives effectively, managing transitions and stakeholder engagement.
Stakeholder Management
Build strategic relationships across the organisation and manage stakeholder expectations effectively.
Performance Management
Implement systems for measuring, monitoring, and optimising operational performance and KPI delivery.
Health & Safety
Ensure compliance with health and safety standards while creating safe, inclusive working environments.
Strategic Leadership
Develop visionary leadership capabilities to shape organisational strategy and drive strategic execution.
Your Qualifications & Professional Memberships
CMI or ILM Level 5
ST0385 Certificate
Nationally recognised Level 5 qualification in management and leadership. Demonstrates strategic operations competence.
CMI Professional Membership
Full Member Status
Full CMI member status. Access to resources, events, CPD tools, and the UK's largest management community.
Route to Chartered Manager
CMgr MCMI
With 3+ years experience, graduates can apply for CMgr MCMI - the gold standard in UK management qualifications.
Your Learning Roadmap
Foundations & Self-Awareness
Building your management baseline: self-awareness, professional development, and operational fundamentals.
Operational Strategy
Strategic planning, P&L management, resource allocation, and departmental governance.
Leadership at Scale
Cross-functional team leadership, change management, continuous improvement, and data-driven decisions.
Advanced Practice
Advanced operational strategy, workplace project, and consolidation of learning.
EPA
End-Point Assessment: professional discussion, workplace project presentation, and competency assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
CMI or ILM Level 5 Certificate in Management & Leadership, plus CMI Professional Membership and pathway to Chartered Manager status.
18 months on-programme plus 5 months End-Point Assessment. Structured for distinction-level outcomes.
Government funding for new starts on Operations / Departmental Manager Level 5 (ST0385) ended on 1 September 2026. Apprentices who started before that date continue to be funded through to completion. New starts are not government funded. The standard remains available for privately funded apprentices.
Yes - the programme is sector-agnostic and applies to operations, finance, HR, projects, change management, and general management roles.
This is hands-on, workplace-applied learning with CMI accreditation. You lead real operational improvements while earning a nationally recognised qualification.
Ready to Master Operations Leadership?
Transform team leaders into strategic operations managers with CMI Level 5.