By

Dr Olaniyi Opanuga, FNIPM

Introduction

Operations Managers play a crucial role in driving supply chain performance. Supply Chain Management is a critical component of Operations Management.

At Nigerian Institute of Production Management (NIPM) we emphasize the importance of effective leadership, strategic planning, and continuous improvement in achieving operational excellence.

Supply Chain Management vs Operations Management

Supply Chain Management      Operations Management

Focus:  Managing the flow of goods, services, and information from raw materials to end customers.      Managing the production of goods and services within an organization and overseeing all internal processes.

Scope: External focus, involving multiple organizations and stakeholders. Internal and external focus, managing organizational resources and processes. Operations management encompasses supply chain management. It fosters the optimization of all supply chain processes.

Goals:  Delivering value to customers, reducing costs, and improving efficiency Maximizing productivity, quality, and efficiency within the organization and optimizing supply chains.

What Happens When Supply Chain Professionals Report to the Operations Manager?

When supply chain professionals report to the Operations Manager, it typically means that the Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day activities of the supply chain team. This includes:

– Coordinating and directing supply chain activities, such as procurement, inventory management, and logistics

– Providing guidance and support to supply chain team members

– Setting performance goals and objectives for the supply chain team

– Monitoring and reporting on supply chain performance metrics

– Identifying and addressing supply chain issues and opportunities

– Collaborating with other departments, such as sales and marketing, to ensure alignment and optimize supply chain operations

Key Responsibilities of Operations Managers

– Oversee daily operations, ensuring efficiency, quality, facility or plant maintainability and reliability, and overall productivity

– Develop operational plans, managing resources and supply chains

– Coordinate and supervise staff activities, reviewing performance and initiating corrective actions

– Ensure adherence to safety, health, and environmental standards and regulations

– Maintain relationships with key internal and external stakeholders

Driving Supply Chain Performance

– Set clear goals and expectations, providing feedback and coaching

– Foster a positive work environment, promoting employee engagement and motivation

– Implement lean principles, optimizing processes and reducing waste

– Monitor and analyze performance metrics, identifying areas for improvement

– Provide training and development opportunities, enhancing employee skills and knowledge

Key Areas of Contribution

– Resource Management: Procuring raw materials, managing inventory, and optimizing resource allocation to minimize costs and reduce waste.

– Process Optimization: Analyzing workflows, identifying bottlenecks, and implementing improvements to enhance efficiency and productivity.

– Supply Chain Coordination: Collaborating with suppliers, vendors, and internal teams to ensure smooth operations and timely delivery.

– Risk Management: Identifying potential risks, developing contingency plans, and implementing strategies to mitigate supply chain disruptions.

– Data Analysis: Monitoring performance metrics, analyzing data, and making informed decisions to drive continuous improvement.

Importance of Nigerian Institute of Production Management (NIPM)

Nigerian Institute of Production Management (NIPM) is the foremost supply chain and operations management institution in Nigeria.

NIPM plays a vital role in training and developing Operations Managers and supply chain professionals. Operations management involves the administration of day-to-day operations of an organization, including manufacturing and production operations, project operations, logistics operations, supply chain operations, and general business operations.

NIPM is responsible for regulating the standards of professional practice in production and operations management.

NIPM’s Contribution to Operations Managers and Supply Chain Professionals

– Professional Certification: NIPM offers certification programs, including:

    ■ Certified Operations Management Professional (COMP)

    ■ Certified Supply Chain Operations Manager (CSCOM)

    ■ Certified Logistics Manager (CLM)

    ■ Certified Procurement Manager (CPM)

    ■ Certified Operations Management Professional (COMP)

    ■ Certified Operations Manager (COM)

– Academic Programs: NIPM offers:

■ Professional Diploma in Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Logistics Management

    ■ Advanced Diploma in Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Logistics Management

    ■ Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) in Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Logistics Management

– Training and Development: NIPM provides training and development programs, workshops, and seminars that address the needs of industries, focusing on operations management, supply chain management, and logistics.

– Networking Opportunities: NIPM offers a platform for Operations Managers and supply chain professionals to network, share best practices, and learn from industry experts.

– Research and Benchmarking: NIPM conducts research and benchmarking studies, providing insights and recommendations for improving operations and supply chain management practices in Nigeria, Africa and Globally.

NIPM Membership Registration

Join NIPM today and benefit from our certification programs, training and development opportunities, and networking platforms.

As a member, you will:

– Enhance your professional skills and knowledge

– Stay updated on industry trends and best practices

– Network with industry experts and peers

– Access exclusive training and development opportunities

– Contribute to the development of the operations and supply chain management profession in Nigeria

Best Practices for Operations Managers

– Develop a strong leadership team, empowering supervisors and team leaders

– Implement a performance management system, tracking key performance indicators (KPIs)

– Encourage open communication, soliciting feedback from employees and stakeholders

– Foster a culture of accountability, recognizing and rewarding outstanding performance

– Stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices, driving continuous improvement

Conclusion

Operations Managers are critical to driving supply chain performance. By understanding their roles and responsibilities and leveraging the training and development opportunities offered by NIPM, they can optimize operations, enhance employee engagement, and achieve operational excellence.

■ Dr Olaniyi Opanuga, FNIPM is the President and Chairman of Council, Nigerian Institute of Production Management (NIPM) and a Professor of Supply Chain and Operations Management at the College of Production & Operations Management (COPOM).

Further Enquiries  

Tel./WhatsApp: 08069006671, 08023140750. E-mail: info@nipmnigeria.com.ng