⚠️ This apprenticeship standard is being withdrawn from September 2026. New starts can still be enrolled until 17 December 2026, after which no new funded starts will be possible. Existing learners on programme will continue to be levy-funded to completion.

Looking for a funded alternative? See our AI for Operations Leaders L4 - includes CMI Level 5 Award. • Read more about defunding changes

This Standard Is Being Defunded

Looking for the AI-Powered Replacement?

The AI for Operations Leaders L4 combines operational management with AI strategy. Includes CMI Level 5 Award and covers digital transformation, automation, and data-driven decision making. 100% levy-funded.

View the AI-Powered Programme

Operations Manager Level 5 Apprenticeship

Develop advanced operational leadership and strategic management capabilities with our comprehensive Level 5 programme.

24
Month Duration
12
Core Modules
100%
Funded
CMI
Certified

Programme Overview

A strategic apprenticeship designed for experienced operational professionals seeking to advance their leadership capabilities. Combine CMI qualifications with hands-on operational excellence.

Your Qualifications

Earn recognised CMI qualifications while mastering advanced operational strategies and leadership excellence.

CMI L5 Strategic 18 months
What is the Operations Manager Level 5 apprenticeship? The Operations Manager Level 5 apprenticeship develops mid-level managers in strategic planning, operational delivery, project management, and team leadership. Fully levy-funded, includes CMI Level 5 qualification. Delivered by TESS Group - Ofsted Good, rated 4.9/5.
📊
99%
Apprentice Satisfaction
🎓
4
Portable Qualifications
⭐
Good
Ofsted Rated
💼
500+
Successful Apprentices

Why Choose This Apprenticeship?

Advanced operational leadership and strategic management development

Transform Your Operations Career

1

Advanced Strategic Thinking

Develop enterprise-level strategic planning capabilities aligned with organisational vision and long-term goals.

2

Operational Excellence

Master systems, processes, and methodologies that drive efficiency and continuous improvement across your organisation.

3

Leadership Mastery

Build the leadership skills needed to inspire teams, manage change, and drive strategic initiatives forward.

Skill Development Throughout Programme
Strategic Planning
95%
Leadership Skills
90%
Operational Excellence
92%

Twelve Core Learning Modules

Comprehensive curriculum for advanced operations management

Strategic Planning & Vision

Develop enterprise-level strategic thinking and long-term operational planning aligned with organisational vision and objectives.

Strategy Planning

Operations Excellence

Master systems, processes, and continuous improvement methodologies to drive operational efficiency and effectiveness.

Excellence Process

Supply Chain Management

Optimize supply chain strategies and management to enhance resilience, efficiency, and strategic alignment.

Supply Chain Strategy

Financial Management

Control operational budgets and financial resources strategically to support business objectives and growth.

Finance Management

Quality & Compliance

Establish and maintain quality standards, compliance frameworks, and risk management across operations.

Quality Compliance

Technology & Innovation

Leverage technology adoption and digital innovation to transform operations and competitive advantage.

Technology Innovation

Team Leadership

Build and develop high-performing teams with clear direction, motivation, and performance management strategies.

Leadership Teams

Change Management

Lead organisational change initiatives effectively, managing transitions and stakeholder engagement.

Change Leadership

Stakeholder Management

Build strategic relationships across the organisation and manage stakeholder expectations effectively.

Stakeholders Relations

Performance Management

Implement systems for measuring, monitoring, and optimising operational performance and KPI delivery.

Performance KPIs

Health & Safety

Ensure compliance with health and safety standards while creating safe, inclusive working environments.

Safety Compliance

Strategic Leadership

Develop visionary leadership capabilities to shape organisational strategy and drive strategic execution.

Strategy Leadership

Flexible Delivery Model

Learning that works with your busy operational schedule

🎯

Blended Learning

Combine online modules with face-to-face workshops and practical application in your workplace.

💻

Online Platform

Access learning resources anytime, anywhere through our interactive learning management system.

👥

Cohort Support

Learn alongside peers facing similar operational challenges in structured cohort groups.

🎓

Expert Mentoring

Receive one-to-one guidance from experienced operational leaders throughout your journey.

📚

Resource Library

Access comprehensive resources, case studies, and templates supporting your operational excellence.

⏰

Work-Paced Learning

Progress through modules at a pace that suits your professional commitments and learning style.

Recognised Qualifications & Standards

Four portable qualifications earned through completion

🏆

CMI Level 5 Diploma

Chartered Management Institute Level 5 qualification in operational management and strategic leadership.

📜

Level 5 Apprenticeship

Official Level 5 Apprenticeship completion certificate and transcript of achievement.

🎖️

Functional Skills

English and mathematics functional skills at appropriate level, certified by awarding bodies.

🌟

Recognised Standards

Compliance with apprenticeship standards and achievement of occupational competencies.

Occupational Duties: What You'll Demonstrate

Core competencies you'll develop throughout the apprenticeship

Strategic Analysis

Analyse market, competitive, and internal operational data to inform strategic decision-making and planning.

Operations Planning

Develop comprehensive operational plans aligned with organisational strategy and business objectives.

Process Optimisation

Design and implement operational processes that maximise efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Resource Management

Manage budgets, staffing, and operational resources strategically to achieve business targets.

Performance Monitoring

Establish KPI frameworks and monitoring systems to track and optimise operational performance.

Quality Assurance

Implement and maintain quality standards, compliance frameworks, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Team Development

Lead and develop teams, creating high-performing cultures and supporting career progression.

Stakeholder Communication

Build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders at all organisational levels.

Change Leadership

Lead organisational change initiatives, managing transitions and maximising stakeholder engagement.

End Point Assessment (EPA)

How your competencies are formally evaluated

Formal Assessment Methods

✓
Professional Discussion - In-depth conversation with independent assessor covering your operational achievements and strategic thinking.
✓
Work Portfolio - Compilation of evidence demonstrating your operational leadership and strategic management competencies.
✓
Practical Assignment - Strategic operations challenge requiring you to demonstrate problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about the Operations Manager L5 programme

Who is eligible for the Operations Manager Level 5 programme?
+
You should have operational experience at supervisor or middle management level, ideally 2+ years in operations, supervisory or management roles. GCSE English and maths (grade 4/C) or equivalent literacy and numeracy are required. You must be employed and able to commit 6+ hours per week to learning.
What is the time commitment required?
+
The apprenticeship typically requires 6-8 hours per week over 24 months. This includes online learning, workshops, mentoring sessions, and workplace application. The flexible delivery model allows you to fit learning around your operational schedule.
How is the programme funded?
+
The programme is levy-funded for levy-paying companies (companies with £3m+ payroll). The Apprenticeship Levy covers the cost. For non-levy companies, the government covers 95% of costs, with the employer contributing 5%.
What qualifications will I earn?
+
You'll earn four portable qualifications: CMI Level 5 Diploma in management, Level 5 Apprenticeship certificate, English and mathematics functional skills, and completion of the Operations Manager L5 Standard.
Can I continue working while doing the apprenticeship?
+
Yes, absolutely. The apprenticeship is specifically designed for working professionals. You continue in your operational role while developing and applying learning to your workplace, creating immediate value for your organisation.
What support is available throughout the apprenticeship?
+
Comprehensive support includes: assigned mentor/trainer, online learning platform access, regular check-ins and progress reviews, cohort workshops and networking, resource library access, and dedicated learner support team available throughout.

Ready to Advance Your Operations Career?

Join hundreds of operational leaders who've transformed their careers with our Level 5 apprenticeship. Take the next step in your professional development today.