Career opportunities

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Operations Manager

Taxi and private hire operations managers are responsible for the overall running of the business; managing staff, processes and even finances.

Operations managers have to make sure that the business runs smoothly and operates effectively. They monitor performance (for example, making sure that waiting times for pre-booked customers are not too long) and make sure that enough drivers are working to meet demand.

Operations managers also look into potential ways of developing a business. They may decide on marketing and advertising and may also investigate new technology that can help the company keep up-to-date and competitive. Managers may also be involved in training new staff in procedures and how to use equipment.

The starting salary for an operations manager can be from around £20,000, although this can be higher depending on responsibilities and experience. Some operations managers' can earn up to approximately £45000; salaries will vary according to the size and success of the business.
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Working environment

Operations managers will spend most of their time in the taxi/private hire booking office. They may have a separate office space and may work on the computer for a lot of their time.

Operations managers also have to spend time with their staff, providing support for them and giving them assistance if neccesary.

Hours of work can vary for operations managers; some may work a 37-40 hour week, but others may work more. Some managers may work shifts, including early mornings and late nights to cover the hours that the company is open.
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Skills and interests

A good operations manager has a sound understanding of business principles. They should know how to manage people and performance and should be interested in working closely with staff to ensure the company is performing as best it can.

The skills and abilities that an operations manager requires are wide and various; they include:
- a good head for business and the ability to spot opportunities
- excellent communication, both verbal and written
- ability to lead and motivate others
- willingness to multitask
- good organisational and planning skills
- ability to make quick decisions under pressure
- strong people management and interpersonal skills.
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Entry into the role

Usually no formal qualifications are required to work as an operations manager. However a good standard of general education is useful, and business qualifications could be valuable. Experience of working in business, especially at a management level, can sometimes be expected.

Practical experience of the taxi and private hire industry, or of similar work in other passenger transport industries, can be of great help especially in terms of being able to come up with new development ideas for the business.

Jobs are available in every part of the country, but most work is in large towns and cities. Jobs can be advertised in the local press or at employment agencies or organisations such as Jobcentre Plus. Larger taxi and private hire companies may use their own websites for recruitment as well.
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Opportunities

Operations managers can take on additional responsibilities within the management of the business. They can also move into managing their own companies, or into other passenger transport industries in similar management positions.

Operations managers can also study for some industry related qualifications. These include:
- EDI level 3 NVQ in road passenger transport operations
- Edexcel level 3 in managing road passenger transport
- Edexcel level 4 in managing road passenger transport.
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Useful links

• Taxi and Private Hire Monthly (magazine)

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Case Studies

• TAXI & PRIVATE HIRE - company owner
  Paul McLaughlin, the owner of Delta Merseyside, speaks about his work.
  Download case study document

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