How to Become a Banking Operations Manager
Career News December 30, 2013There are many necessary positions in the banking industry. A lot of work goes down behind the scenes to keep the bank operating properly. This is where a Banking Operations Manager comes in to play. Basically, they are responsible for everything that allows the bank to operate.
Before working towards this position, you should ask yourself some questions. Do you manage your time well? Do you have good computer skills? Can you handle an upset employee while keeping the work flow going strong? If you can do these while balancing a full work load, and answering to your higher ups, this may be a good fit for you.
Typically, if a bank needs to hire a new Operations Manager, it would first do an internal posting and hire from within. The requirements would be a Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business, or something related. But that’s not all. They would also ask that you come with 5-8 years of experience, depending on the bank.
As with many Management positions there are typically two ways to get there. Working in the industry, polishing your skills, and moving on up is one option. The second option, getting your education and gaining experience, is typically a much faster way to attain a management position. Let’s explore both options to see what fits you.
Let’s say you began working as a teller as soon as you graduated from high school. Every time there is a new job posting, you apply. You master each job, and their responsibilities. While gaining your experience, you take a certification, or licensure program. Maybe you get your state life insurance license, or an accounting certificate. You keep gaining the knowledge required to qualify as an Operations manager. You will need a lot of experience to make up for the lack of education, but it is not uncommon to work your way up.
The fast track option is to get your degree. Before you obtain your bachelors, you should begin inquiring to banks to see if they have any management programs. Many banks offer recent graduates intensive management programs that require little to no experience. You may be offered a job that would propel you to assistant manager in just a few short years. To get into management even faster, work part time in the bank while you are still working toward your degree.
Which option is right for you? In the finance world, an education goes a long way. Whatever path you choose, you should work to acquire some keys skills. You will need to know all the legal aspects of banking, as compliance is one of your job duties. Your analytical skills should be sharp, and you need to be good with people. Computer proficiency is absolutely necessary, as you will need to be able to use many different programs.
Once you have chosen your path, you need to refine your skills continuously. You will need to call upon your knowledge on a daily basis to make decisions. Even with a formal education, it doesn’t hurt to continue learning and growing.
