Strategic Operations Management Program
Build inventive and integrated business operations
The Strategic Operations Management program from Wharton Executive Education enables business leaders and consultants to strengthen operations management, improve business operations, and address complex challenges through structured process improvement and problem-solving approaches. Today’s global business environment is shaped by disruption and evolving customer expectations. To remain competitive and resilient, organizations must rethink their strategies; integrate emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and automation; align priorities with sustainability trends; and optimize operations.
Led by esteemed Wharton faculty, this six-week online operations management course blends rigorous academic insights with practical learning through online modules, practical playbooks, and interactive activities. You learn to identify operational bottlenecks, strengthen supply chain management, and lead digital transformation initiatives while developing strategic decision-making capabilities to build adaptive and future-ready operations. You emerge from the program with the frameworks and perspective needed to guide resilient, high-performing operations in a rapidly evolving global business landscape.
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Faculty Insights
Get a firsthand look at how this program equips you to streamline operations and drive efficiency.
What you will learn
Effective leadership in operations requires more than intuition — it demands the ability to analyze complex processes, align organizational strategy, and apply structured process analysis to improve performance across the enterprise. The Strategic Operations Management program from Wharton Executive Education will enable you to:
Identify key business operations concepts
Assess your organization’s operations, and determine their potential for improvement
Analyze organizational resources and constraints to scale your operations
Apply tools and strategies for supply chain management, ensuring resilience and agility amid global disruptions
Develop strategic operational decision making to foster robust operations
Identify key trends in sustainability with respect to operations management
Identify, assess, and manage the challenges of delivering value efficiently within environmental constraints
Articulate the business drivers and critical technologies relevant to digital transformation in operations
Who is it for?
The Strategic Operations Management program from Wharton Executive Education is designed for business leaders and professionals across functions and industries who want to strengthen their understanding of operations management, improve business operations, and develop practical approaches to managing supply chain complexity and operational challenges. The program is particularly beneficial for:
Senior executives, including senior vice presidents of operations, CEOs, CTOs, and CFOs, with more than 15 years of work experience
Entrepreneurs striving to equip themselves with the latest knowledge to implement digital transformation and optimize operational processes
Strategic planning leaders, including business development managers and heads of corporate strategy, aiming to align operations with business goals, improve process analysis, identify bottlenecks, and reduce supply chain risks for lasting product or service success
Functional managers, including operations managers, plant managers, and quality control managers, focusing on enhancing their operational skill set, implementing efficient processes, and preparing for leadership roles
Strategic consultants aiming to understand the latest trends in operations, supply chain resilience, digital transformation, and sustainability
Comprehensive curriculum
The Strategic Operations Management program is designed with the needs of busy business leaders and professionals like you in mind. You will learn through video lectures, live webinars, case studies, and interactive discussions guided by Wharton faculty. The six-week online program’s curriculum combines practical frameworks, real-world applications, and peer collaboration to help you strengthen strategic planning, apply capacity planning and resource allocation approaches, and implement continuous improvement to address complex operational challenges.
Learn to assess your organization’s operational performance, identify strengths and weaknesses, and align improvement efforts with overall business strategy. Apply quality control, determine strategic positions, identify bottlenecks, and optimize flow rates by applying real-world business administration principles.
Use a systematic approach to improve business efficiency by cutting waste, optimizing processes, and creating customer value. Measure waste with OEE and %-VAT, and connect operational factors to financial performance using a KPI tree.
Learn to analyze organizational resources and constraints to scale technology, identify resources that provide value to customers, assess resource limitations, develop a risk forecasting model, and create a backcasting plan for your organization.
Hone your skills in managing supply chains to ensure resilience and agility, focus on assessing vulnerabilities, apply mitigation strategies, and use frameworks and tools to address operational risks for goods and services amid global disruptions.
Identify and manage key sustainability trends in operations management to deliver business value within environmental constraints. Understand how sustainable operations benefit the business, recognize trade-offs in environmental improvements, and assess the impact of ESG reporting requirements on your organization.
Understand key technologies driving digital transformation in operations. Learn about AI/ML applications, including predictive, generative, and reinforcement learning, and how they enhance operational agility and visibility. Address AI/ML challenges, including bias, explainability, data privacy, and ethics.
The Strategic Operations Management playbook
The Strategic Operations Management playbook consists of self-study activities in each module that allow you to demonstrate your knowledge of key learning outcomes and strengthen your problem-solving and process management capabilities. This unique playbook will help you apply program concepts, evaluate operational excellence, and translate insights into practical strategies within your own organization.
Identify and capture efficiencies, create cost savings, and measure improved financial performance
Identify the pathways and actions needed to scale business operations
Undertake a risk assessment to identify, mitigate, and respond to probable business risks
Identify the main enablers and barriers to sustainable operations, trade-offs in improving environmental outcomes, and benefits of sustainable operations
Address AI challenges of bias, explainability, data privacy, and ethics
Apply AI in business to measure its impact on the employees, workforce reorganization, and computation needs
Program highlights
Leverage a live online session to interact with and gain advanced knowledge from expert faculty
Glean insights from world-renowned faculty who are at the cutting-edge of business management and innovation
Learn at your own pace with a weekly commitment of four to six hours
Learn with accomplished peers from around the globe, and gain new approaches to leadership
Participate in practical exercises to elevate your strategic impact
Create solutions for real-world challenges, and apply the concepts to your organization
Learn from real-world case studies, and apply theoretical concepts to practical scenarios
Assignments and case studies
The program effectively utilizes assignments and case studies to help you understand the key operations concepts and address constraints and bottlenecks.
In this two-part case study, map the operations process to compute capacity levels, locate bottlenecks, calculate flow rate and resource utilization, identify and measure waste using OEE and %-VAT, and develop a KPI to enhance profitability.
Apply the risk forecasting model to your organization to identify risks and make assumptions to determine the possibility of quickly scaling your operations.
Complete the Supply Chain Risk Management Maturity Model to evaluate and determine whether your organization is as resilient as it might be.
Choose a product that your organization procures, assess the sustainability practice, suggest how to make this procurement more sustainable, and identify any trade-offs in improving environmental outcomes that are part of this procurement process.
Identify the data needed, challenges they will likely face (i.e., bias, explainability, data privacy, and ethics), and how they will be effective, as well as how to manage the people impacted through this AI X-Ray process.
Meet the faculty
Andrew M. Heller Professor at the Wharton School; Professor and Department Chairperson of Operations, Information and Decisions; Professor of Health Policy, Perelman School of Medicine; Co-Director, Mack Institute of Innovation Management
Christian Terwiesch’s research on operations management and innovation has appeared in top journals such as Management Science and The New England Journal of Medicine. ...
Jeffery A. Keswin Professor; Professor of Operations, Information and Decisions; Director of the Jerome Fisher Program in Management and Technology
Gad Allon’s research interests include operations management in general and service operations and operations strategy in particular. His articles have appeared in leading jou...
Professor of Operations, Information and Decisions, The Wharton School; Faculty Co-Director of AI at Wharton
Prasanna (Sonny) Tambe’s research focuses on the use of data science and AI in all aspects of HR (from hiring to retention) and the economics of technical labor markets, parti...
Certificate
Upon successful completion of the program, you will earn a digital certificate of completion from the Wharton School.
Note: After successful completion of the online program, your verified digital certificate will be emailed to you in the name you used when registering for the program. All certificate images are for illustrative purposes only and may be subject to change at the discretion of the Wharton School.
This online certificate program does not grant academic credit or a degree from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
Global Supply Chain and Operations Strategy
FAQs
The Strategic Operations Management program from Wharton Executive Education is an executive operations management certificate program designed for professionals who want to strengthen their understanding of modern business operations and improve organizational performance. This online operations management certificate learning experience introduces participants to core operations management concepts, including inventory management, process management, and quality management, while connecting them with practical business applications.
Through structured modules and real-world analysis, the program explores how leaders can optimize supply chain management, improve service operations, and align operational decisions with organizational strategy. The program focuses on developing strategic thinking, improving processes, and helping leaders develop strategies that support operational efficiency across their organization.
The value of any executive education program depends on an individual’s career goals, professional development plans, and the operational challenges their organization faces.
The Strategic Operations Management program from Wharton Executive Education helps participants build knowledge across key areas, including inventory control, quality assurance, and operational resources management. Through case studies and applied learning, the program enables professionals to strengthen their operational capabilities and achieve operational excellence in complex business environments.
Choosing the best operations management course depends on the type of operational expertise you want to build. The Strategic Operations Management program from Wharton Executive Education integrates frameworks from operations research, and quality standards to help professionals evaluate operational challenges across organizations.
The program emphasizes practical tools, structured problem-solving, and applied process improvement to help leaders manage complex systems in manufacturing, services, and digital business environments. Participants learn how operational decisions affect materials, production, and service delivery across global supply chain networks.
The tuition for the Strategic Operations Management program is listed on the official program page. The program fee covers faculty-led online classes, course materials, case studies, and access to learning resources.
Participants enrolled in this executive course gain access to structured online learning, real-world assignments, and peer discussions that support professional growth. In some cases, flexible payment options or financial aid may be available depending on eligibility.
An operations management course can equip you with the skills required to successfully manage operational complexity across modern organizations. Leaders responsible for operational performance must coordinate activities, including warehouse management, capacity planning, and supply chain planning, to ensure efficient operations.
The Strategic Operations Management program strengthens effective decision making and leadership capability by helping you apply analytical frameworks, operational tools, and strategic analysis to improve your organizational performance.
Professionals from a wide range of backgrounds pursue advanced management courses to deepen their understanding of operational systems. Participants come from diverse roles, including operations manager, project manager, or production supervisor, where managing complex processes is a core responsibility.
The program is also well-suited for individuals with experience in project management, agile project management, or strategic leadership roles who want to strengthen their operational capabilities and expand their leadership impact across the organization.
Developing leadership capability in operations management requires understanding how operational systems interact with broader business priorities. You must learn to balance operational performance with resource allocation, continuous improvement, and organizational change initiatives.
The Strategic Operations Management program provides a structured learning experience that will help you study operations management, strengthen your operational skills, and improve your ability to guide complex business processes.
Choosing the right executive management course requires evaluating various factors, including faculty expertise, curriculum depth, and opportunities for applied practice. A strong executive program should help you strengthen operational thinking while exposing you to real-world operational challenges.
The Strategic Operations Management program from Wharton Executive Education focuses on equipping you to improve operational systems across your organization while developing your strategic operational capabilities.
A high-quality operations management course helps professionals build the expertise needed to manage operational complexity while driving measurable results. The Strategic Operations Management program equips leaders with frameworks to improve efficiency, strengthen processes, and save time across operational workflows.
Through structured case discussions and applied learning, participants gain insights that help them improve performance and strengthen operational leadership capabilities.
Preparing for leadership roles in operations management requires a strong foundation in analytical thinking, operational systems, and strategic leadership. You must understand how operational decisions affect organizational performance and long-term growth.
This executive program will help you strengthen your operational expertise and expand your leadership capabilities through applied learning and structured analysis of operational systems.
An executive operations management program is designed for experienced professionals who want to deepen their understanding of operational systems and strategic business execution. These programs emphasize strategic thinking rather than technical implementation, helping leaders guide operational transformation across organizations.
Such programs combine academic insights with practical applications so participants can strengthen operational leadership and improve business performance across industries.
An operations management course is suitable for professionals responsible for improving operational performance across organizations. Leaders overseeing operational systems, transformation initiatives, or supply chain networks can benefit from structured executive education in this field.
The Strategic Operations Management program is particularly valuable for professionals who want to strengthen their operational leadership and improve organizational efficiency.
How do I know if this program is right for me?
After reviewing the information on the program landing page, we recommend you submit the short form above to gain access to the program brochure, which includes more in-depth information. If you still have questions on whether this program is a good fit for you, please email learner.success@emeritus.org, and a dedicated program advisor will follow-up with you very shortly.
Are there any prerequisites for this program?
Some programs do have prerequisites, particularly the more technical ones. This information will be noted on the program landing page, as well as in the program brochure. If you are uncertain about program prerequisites and your capabilities, please email us at the ID mentioned above.
Note that, unless otherwise stated on the program web page, all programs are taught in English and proficiency in English is required.
What is the typical class profile?
More than 50 percent of our participants are from outside the United States. Class profiles vary from one cohort to the next, but, generally, our online certificates draw a highly diverse audience in terms of professional experience, industry, and geography — leading to a very rich peer learning and networking experience.
What other dates will this program be offered in the future?
Check back to this program web page or email us to inquire if future program dates or the timeline for future offerings have been confirmed yet.
How much time is required each week?
Each program includes an estimated learner effort per week. This is referenced at the top of the program landing page under the Duration section, as well as in the program brochure, which you can obtain by submitting the short form at the top of this web page.
How will my time be spent?
We have designed this program to fit into your current working life as efficiently as possible. Time will be spent among a variety of activities including:
Engaging with recorded video lectures from faculty
Attending webinars and office hours, as per the specific program schedule
Reading or engaging with examples of core topics
Completing knowledge checks/quizzes and required activities
Engaging in moderated discussion groups with your peers
Completing your final project, if required
The program is designed to be highly interactive while also allowing time for self-reflection and to demonstrate an understanding of the core topics through various active learning exercises. Please email us if you need further clarification on program activities.
What is it like to learn online with the learning collaborator, Emeritus?
More than 300,000 learners across 200 countries have chosen to advance their skills with Emeritus and its educational learning partners. In fact, 90 percent of the respondents of a recent survey across all our programs said that their learning outcomes were met or exceeded.
All the contents of the course would be made available to students at the commencement of the course. However, to ensure the program delivers the desired learning outcomes the students may appoint Emeritus to manage the delivery of the program in a cohort-based manner the cost of which is already included in the overall course fee of the course.
A dedicated program support team is available 24/5 (Monday to Friday) to answer questions about the learning platform, technical issues, or anything else that may affect your learning experience.
How do I interact with other program participants?
Peer learning adds substantially to the overall learning experience and is an important part of the program. You can connect and communicate with other participants through our learning platform.
What are the requirements to earn the certificate?
Each program includes an estimated learner effort per week, so you can gauge what will be required before you enroll. This is referenced at the top of the program landing page under the Duration section, as well as in the program brochure, which you can obtain by submitting the short form at the top of this web page. All programs are designed to fit into your working life.
This program is scored as a pass or no-pass; participants must complete the required activities to pass and obtain the certificate of completion. Some programs include a final project submission or other assignments to obtain passing status. This information will be noted in the program brochure. Please email us if you need further clarification on any specific program requirements.
What type of certificate will I receive?
Upon successful completion of the program, you will receive a smart digital certificate. The smart digital certificate can be shared with friends, family, schools, or potential employers. You can use it on your cover letter, resume, and/or display it on your LinkedIn profile.
The digital certificate will be sent approximately two weeks after the program, once grading is complete.
Can I get the hard copy of the certificate?
No, only verified digital certificates will be issued upon successful completion. This allows you to share your credentials on social platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter.
Do I receive alumni status after completing this program?
No, there is no alumni status granted for this program. In some cases, there are credits that count toward a higher level of certification. This information will be clearly noted in the program brochure.
How long will I have access to the learning materials?
You will have access to the online learning platform and all the videos and program materials for 12 months following the program start date. Access to the learning platform is restricted to registered participants per the terms of agreement.
What equipment or technical requirements are there for this program?
Participants will need the latest version of their preferred browser to access the learning platform. In addition, Microsoft Office and a PDF viewer are required to access documents, spreadsheets, presentations, PDF files, and transcripts.
Do I need to be online to access the program content?
Yes, the learning platform is accessed via the internet, and video content is not available for download. However, you can download files of video transcripts, assignment templates, readings, etc. For maximum flexibility, you can access program content from a desktop, laptop, tablet, or mobile device.
Video lectures must be streamed via the internet, and any livestream webinars and office hours will require an internet connection. However, these sessions are always recorded, so you may view them later.
Can I still register if the registration deadline has passed?
Yes, you can register up until seven days past the published start date of the program without missing any of the core program material or learnings.
What is the program fee, and what forms of payment do you accept?
The program fee is noted at the top of this program web page and usually referenced in the program brochure as well.
Flexible payment options are available (see details below as well as at the top of this program web page next to FEE).
Tuition assistance is available for participants who qualify. Please email learner.success@emeritus.org.
What if I don’t have a credit card? Is there another method of payment accepted?
Yes, you can do the bank remittance in the program currency via wire transfer or debit card. Please contact your program advisor, or email us for details.
I was not able to use the discount code provided. Can you help?
Yes! Please email us with the details of the program you are interested in, and we will assist you.
How can I obtain an invoice for payment?
Please email us your invoicing requirements and the specific program you’re interested in enrolling in.
Is there an option to make flexible payments for this program?
Yes, the flexible payment option allows a participant to pay the program fee in installments. This option is made available on the payment page and should be selected before submitting the payment.
How can I obtain a W9 form?
Please connect with us via email for assistance.
Who will be collecting the payment for the program?
Emeritus collects all program payments, provides learner enrollment and program support, and manages learning platform services.
Are there any restrictions on the types of funding that can be used to pay for the program?
Program fees for Emeritus programs with Wharton Executive Education may not be paid for with (a) funds from the GI Bill, the Post-9/11 Educational Assistance Act of 2008, or similar types of military education funding benefits or (b) Title IV financial aid funds.
What is the program refund and deferral policy?
For the program refund and deferral policy, please click the link here.
Didn't find what you were looking for? Write to us at learner.success@emeritus.org, schedule a call with one of our academic advisors, or call us at +1 680 205 5118 (US) / +44 185 845 9995 (UK) / +65 3135 1422 (SG)
Flexible payment options available.
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