Bioenergy Career Map: Business Operations Manager

• Ability to coordinate and develop innovative strategies and recommendations for initiating and establishing goals, timetables, and procedures for expediting the priorities of the organization
• Ability to monitor program planning, resource and fiscal management, training, manpower management, and automated data processing to meet the logistics plan and identify delays or problems
• Knowledge of complex accounting systems and software
• Skill in managing, leading, directing, and supervising staff towards meeting an organization's objectives and programs.

The business operations arm of the bioenergy supply chain plays a key role in the development of a resilient bioenergy industry. Individuals in this sector work to make continual improvements to the overall operations of the business (e.g., biorefinery) in order to improve profitability and maximize customer value, and in doing so help biofuels and bioproducts achieve a competitive advantage.
 
Business operating activities can include negotiating contracts, addressing budget matters, making strategic marketing decisions, and helping various departments within an organization coordinate to meet end goals. In the bioenergy sector, they may be involved in acquiring investors for development activities, managing feedstock supply, and facilitating end product distribution and sales.
 
At the senior of supervisory level, the business operations manager serves as the lead manager coordinating the organization's financial and budget activities to fund operations, maximize investments, and increase efficiency. A Ph.D. in business administration or a related degree is valuable. Equivalent experience or training may substitute for the degree. Experience with the energy sector is recommended.