Operational/Departmental Manager Apprenticeship - CMI Level 5

What will I learn?

The apprenticeship covers a wide range of business management skills and knowledge, including organisational performance, interpersonal skills and personal effectiveness.

Study method

Online lessons can be accessed at any time, using a mobile, tablet or desktop – meaning apprentices can fit their study around work commitments, minimising disruption in the workplace. Each lesson lasts around 45 minutes and is accompanied by animations and motion graphics to bring concepts to life. Exercises, interactive case studies and analytical tools help to enhance the learning experience further.

On campus, apprentices benefit from face-to-face classes at college with an experienced tutor. A combination of classroom-based lessons, group exercises and discussion encourages apprentices to apply theory to real-life workplace situations.

Example modules

• Principle of Management and Leadership in Context
• Principles of Developing, Managing and Leading Individuals and Teams to Achieve Success
• Managing Stakeholder Relationships
• Managing Projects to Achieve Results
• Managing Change
• Creating and Delivering Operational Plans
• Managing Finance
• Using Reflective Practice to Inform Personal and Professional Development

How will I be assessed?

Apprentices must pass the end-point assessment in order to achieve the apprenticeship certificate.

The end-point assessment for the Operations / Departmental Manager Apprenticeship involves a review of the apprentice’s portfolio of evidence which is collated during their work/study time; an externally set knowledge test; presentation of a work-based project and question/answer session and an interview/competency-based discussion relating to the apprentice’s Continual Professional Development Log.

Entry requirements

Individual employers will set the selection criteria for their apprentices though most will be expected to hold 5 GCSEs at grade C or higher. Prior experience may also be considered. Apprentices should also have achieved qualifications in English and mathematics at a minimum of level 2 or equivalent. Where this is not the case, apprentices must complete these by the end of the Apprenticeship. It is also recommended that the apprentice is supported to become digitally literate where this is important to their role.

Progression

Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship, there is an opportunity to study CMI courses at higher levels.

Career opportunities

Learners who successfully complete the programme with a CMI approved centre have the option of working towards a CMI Level 5 Diploma in Management and Leadership. Subject to membership conditions, learners can also register to become a member of CMI.

Roles may include: Operations Manager, Regional Manager, Divisional Manager, Department Manager and specialist managers.

Key responsibilities may include creating and delivering operational plans, managing projects, leading and managing teams, managing change, financial and resource management, talent management, coaching and mentoring.

Additional information

This apprenticeship will typically take 2½ years to complete but can take less depending on the prior experience of the individual and the specification of the employer. Workshop attendance is one day per month during term time, some sessions may be virtual (this may vary depending on your chosen study centre).

The Diploma in Management and Leadership qualification is not mandated as part of the apprenticeship.

How to apply

If you are considering an apprenticeship, applications can be made via our partner colleges and training providers.