This apprenticeship develops confident operational leaders across the NHS who want to strengthen their management capabilities and make a meaningful impact on patient care within their Trust. Operational managers play a crucial role in keeping clinical and non‑clinical services running smoothly, supporting their teams to deliver safe, high‑quality care and meet Trust priorities.
NHS Leadership Academy
The prestigious Mary Seacole Leadership Programme from the NHS Leadership Academy is embedded within this apprenticeship, giving learners access to nationally recognised leadership development as part of their training.
Key responsibilities
Creating and delivering operational plans, managing projects, leading and managing teams, managing change, financial and resource management, talent management, coaching and mentoring.
Example occupations
- Operations Manager, Department Manager, Regional Manager, National Manager, Divisional Manager, Service Lead, Office Manager.
Knowledge, skills and behaviours
Successful apprentices will achieve:
- Level 5 Operations Manager Apprenticeship Standard
- Mary Seacole Award in Healthcare Leadership Foundations
- CMI Level 5 qualification in Management & Leadership
- Full member of CMI. Apprentices with 3+ years of management experience can apply for CMI Chartered Manager (CMgr) status.
Progression
- Level 6 Chartered Manager (Degree) Apprenticeship
- Level 7 Senior Leader Apprenticeship.
Programme length
15-28 months
Independent learning
3-4 hours per week
Off-the-job training
6 hours per week
Assessment organisation
Chartered Management Institute (CMI)
Assessment components
- Professional discussion, underpinned by a portfolio of evidence
- Written Project Report, presentation and questions
Delivery model
Open and closed cohorts available
It's a good networking opportunity, there's a sense of connecting with other people in the organisation, which I enjoy. Decision making and understanding the type of manager I am, has changed my management style as the apprenticeship gives you the skills to do that. It's about confidence, it's helped me see what I'm good at, to see my strengths."
