Operations Manager vs. Sales Manager: What Are the Differences?

Operations managers and sales managers are both responsible for ensuring their company’s products or services are successful. However, their day-to-day responsibilities and skillsets differ. If you’re interested in a management position, learning more about these roles can help you decide which one is right for you. In this article, we compare and contrast operations managers and sales managers, including their job duties, skills and education requirements.

What is an Operations Manager?

Operations Managers are responsible for the day-to-day running of a company or organization. They develop and implement processes and procedures to ensure efficient and effective operation. Operations Managers also develop and monitor KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) to assess the performance of the organization against specific goals. They work closely with other managers to ensure that all departments are coordinated and working towards the same objectives. Operations Managers typically have a background in business administration or management.

What is a Sales Manager?

Sales Managers are responsible for leading and motivating a team of salespeople in order to achieve specific sales targets and objectives. They oversee the sales process from start to finish, ensuring that their team is using best practices and staying on track. Sales Managers develop and implement strategies to increase market share and grow the customer base. They also work with other departments within the company to ensure that the sales team has the resources and support they need to be successful. Sales Managers typically have a background in sales, and they use their experience and knowledge to train and mentor their team.

Operations Manager vs. Sales Manager

Here are the main differences between an operations manager and a sales manager.

Job Duties

Operations and sales managers share some job duties, but each role has its own specific duties as well. An operations manager oversees the daily functions of a business, making sure that all employees complete their tasks efficiently. They determine which processes work best for the company and ensure those processes continue throughout the day. Operations managers often delegate tasks to other managers, ensuring that each department works smoothly together. Sales managers oversee a particular aspect of a company’s business by creating and maintaining relationships with customers. They create strategies to increase overall sales and contact clients regularly to remind them to make purchases.

Job Requirements

Operations managers typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field. However, some employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Additionally, many operations managers have experience working in the area they will be managing, such as manufacturing, human resources or logistics. Some operations managers also pursue certifications through professional organizations, such as the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) or the Institute for Supply Management (ISM).

Sales managers usually need at least a bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field. However, some employers prefer candidates with a master’s degree, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA). Additionally, sales managers often have experience working in sales before moving into management. They might also pursue certifications through professional organizations, such as the National Association of Sales Professionals (NASP) or the American Society of Training and Development (ASTD).

Work Environment

Operations managers typically work in an office setting, but they may travel to visit clients or attend conferences. They also spend time working with employees and overseeing the daily operations of their department. Sales managers often work in a sales environment, such as a car dealership or retail store. They may travel to meet with clients and attend trade shows and conventions.

Skills

Operations managers and sales managers share some similar skills, such as leadership, communication and problem-solving. However, they also have skills that are specific to their respective roles.

An operations manager needs to be able to plan and organize effectively in order to manage the day-to-day operations of a company. They need to be able to delegate tasks and oversee projects to ensure that deadlines are met and goals are achieved. They also need to have strong analytical skills to be able to identify areas of improvement within their department or company.

A sales manager needs to be able to motivate their team and help them set and achieve goals. They need to have excellent negotiation skills to be able to get the best deals for their products or services. They also need to have strong people skills to be able to build relationships with potential customers and close sales.

Salary

Operations managers earn an average salary of $75,844 per year, while sales managers earn an average salary of $83,778 per year. Both of these salaries can vary depending on the size of the company, the location of the job and the level of experience the manager has.