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

A career in management can offer many opportunities for growth and development. Two common management positions are that of a program manager and an operations manager. Though these roles share some similarities, there are several key differences between them.

In this article, we discuss the differences between a program manager and an operations manager, and we provide additional management professions you may be interested in pursuing.

What is a Program Manager?

Program Managers are responsible for planning, executing and monitoring programs or projects within an organization. They work with all stakeholders to ensure that the program or project is on track and within budget. They also create and maintain project schedules, communicate updates to stakeholders and track project milestones. In some cases, Program Managers may be responsible for leading a team of project managers. They typically report to a Senior Program Manager or Director.

What is an Operations Manager?

Operations Managers are responsible for the day-to-day operations of a company or organization. They oversee and coordinate the activities of various departments, such as production, marketing, and human resources. Operations Managers develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure that the company runs smoothly and efficiently. They also develop and monitor budgets, and they may be responsible for hiring and training new employees. Operations Managers typically work in office settings, but they may also travel to different locations to oversee the operations of a company’s various branches.

Program Manager vs. Operations Manager

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

Job Duties

Program managers and operations managers share some job duties, but also have unique responsibilities. Program managers develop the project’s goals and objectives, then create a project plan to meet those goals. They also oversee the budget for the program and make sure that the team is using resources efficiently.

Operations managers ensure that the daily tasks are completed effectively. They monitor the work of their team members to ensure quality and efficiency. Additionally, they communicate with stakeholders outside of the company about issues that could affect the project and resolve problems that arise during production.

Job Requirements

Program managers and operations managers typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in business administration, engineering or another relevant field. Some employers prefer candidates to have a master’s degree as well, but it is not required for entry-level positions. Additionally, many program managers and operations managers pursue certifications through professional organizations like the Project Management Institute (PMI) or the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). These organizations offer training programs that teach professionals how to use project management software and other tools they might need on the job.

Work Environment

Operations managers typically work in an office setting, but they may also travel to different locations. They often spend their days at the workplace overseeing employees and making sure that production is running smoothly.

Program managers usually work in an office environment as well, but they may also travel to attend meetings with clients or vendors. They may also visit sites where projects are being completed to ensure that everything is going according to plan.

Skills

There are several similarities in the skills used by program managers and operations managers. Both roles require excellent communication skills, as they need to be able to interact with a variety of stakeholders, including team members, clients and upper management. They also both need to have strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects or initiatives at one time.

Program managers typically need to have more technical skills than operations managers, as their job involves overseeing the development of new products or software. They need to be able to understand complex technical information and provide clear instructions to their team. Operations managers usually don’t need as much technical knowledge, as their focus is on ensuring that existing systems are running smoothly. However, they may benefit from having some technical skills, as they can be helpful in troubleshooting issues that arise.

Salary

Program managers earn an average salary of $95,919 per year, while operations managers earn an average salary of $75,844 per year. Both of these average salaries may vary depending on the size of the company at which you work, location of your job and the level of experience you have prior to pursuing either position.