Description
Course Overview
The Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Operations Management is a nationally recognised qualification designed for aspiring and practising operational managers across all sectors.
This programme develops the leadership, project management and strategic planning expertise required to manage teams, deliver projects, drive performance and align operations with organisational goals.
Learners complete eight mandatory modules, covering the full operational management skillset.
What You Will Learn
Managing and Leading a Team
Develop strong leadership capability by learning how to:
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Set clear goals and accountabilities
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Apply leadership styles effectively
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Manage conflict and mediate disputes
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Coach, mentor and motivate teams
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Lead ethically and professionally
Planning a Project
Build analytical and planning skills to:
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Identify business problems and provide solutions
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Research, analyse and interpret data
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Manage stakeholder relationships
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Influence and negotiate effectively
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Apply recognised change management models
Project Implementation
Gain practical project delivery expertise by learning to:
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Use digital tools to monitor performance and budgets
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Apply financial management techniques (ROI, cost-benefit analysis)
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Manage resources within budget
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Apply structured project management tools (WBS, Gantt charts, RACI)
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Drive continuous improvement
Organisational Governance
Understand compliance and inclusive leadership by:
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Interpreting key legislation and regulations
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Applying organisational policies
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Promoting equality, diversity and inclusion
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Supporting employee wellbeing
Operational Planning
Align operational delivery with strategy by learning to:
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Analyse sector and market impact
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Develop business continuity plans
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Conduct risk assessments
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Deliver sustainable services and solutions
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Create operational plans aligned to strategic goals
Communicating Relevant Information
Strengthen your communication and presentation skills by:
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Adapting communication techniques to different audiences
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Selecting appropriate communication media
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Delivering impactful presentations
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Evaluating project outcomes to support decision-making
Building Relationships with Stakeholders
Enhance your relationship management skills by:
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Mapping and prioritising stakeholders
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Building trust and collaboration
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Managing resistance and conflict
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Demonstrating fairness and respect
Continued Professional Development
Support long-term career growth by:
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Analysing personal and team development needs
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Using performance data (KPIs, balanced scorecards)
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Identifying industry trends
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Facilitating learning and continuous improvement
Assessment
This qualification is assessed via a portfolio of evidence, allowing learners to demonstrate competence in real workplace settings.
Evidence may include:
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Business improvement plans
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Reports and assignments
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Professional discussions
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Presentations
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Observations and witness testimony
Learners must achieve all assessment criteria to achieve a Pass. Distinction is awarded based on performance descriptors.
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Who Is This Qualification For?
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Aspiring Operations Managers
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Existing Operational Managers seeking formal recognition
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Department Managers
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Project Managers
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Team Leaders progressing into senior roles
Suitable for professionals in any sector.
Progression Opportunities
Successful learners may progress to:
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Level 6+ Management Qualifications
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Coaching and Mentoring qualifications
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Senior leadership roles






