The work

Database operations managers maintain the performance of a database (a system of storing related information digitally) and the information in it. They also oversee any changes in data that is stored and any changes to the functions of the database.

A bank might use a database to store information on its members, although the database operations manager would ensure that only the investments manager could see who has invested with them in shares, or only the branch manager could see which members owe money on mortgage repayments.

Just one day in this role might involve the following tasks:

• designing a database
• devising a solution to a problem with an existing database
• planning how a new database can be brought into a company
• maintaining the security of the information contained on the database
• dealing logically and effectively with problems as they occur
• educating users in the workings of the database and how they can access information they need quickly
• informing users about the database and how this change will affect them for the better
• collecting information from database users concerning improvements that can be made
• acting on the suggestions for improvements
• ensuring that the database has enough space for additional information by archiving older records.

A good database manager will devise a simple, user-friendly system of storing data that entitles all users to access it easily and work with it to create graphs, bar charts, pie charts, reports and tables.

Hours and Environment

The work is carried out during office hours (37-40 hours a week) from Monday to Friday. However, a database manager might be on-call if breakdowns occur outside normal hours. Some database operations managers may have their working days lengthened by travel to and from clients' premises to maintain local versions of a database.
Database operations managers work indoors in an office environment, either on one site or at a number of sites. If visiting clients, they may be away from home for variable periods. The ability to drive may be essential for some jobs.

Skills and Interests

Database operations managers should have the following skills and abilities:

• a desire to learn about developments in technology
• a high level of IT knowledge
• a logical and analytical mind
• excellent communications skills, to instruct those who will use the database and senior members of staff
• patience and confidence
• good team-working skills
• problem-solving abilities
• project management experience at more senior levels
• understanding of the business that the database will work for
• planning skills when devising a new database.

Entry

Adult entry is possible, particularly for those with relevant business experience and a solid grounding in IT. Entry may be more difficult after the mid-30s. A degree related to IT, whilst useful, is not essential. Many database operations managers perfect their knowledge and skills while working in other areas such as administration, finance, research and banking.

Training

There is no single route to becoming a database operations manager - the main requirements are having the right knowledge, skills and experience for the job.
While the larger graduate recruiters are usually happy to take trainees from any discipline, smaller employers generally require knowledge in specific computer languages, software packages or operating systems. Many employers require a good honours degree. For others, experience in programming will help.

Universities and colleges may accept mature applicants without the usual entry requirements, especially if they can demonstrate relevant experience and qualifications.
An Access course is another way to gain university entrance. Numerous colleges offer these courses on a one-year, full-time basis or over two years part time.
No formal qualifications are needed to take an Open University course. These can lead to a first degree in Computing and Mathematical science or in IT and Computing.
Employers are increasingly looking upon vendor qualifications, such as those provided by Microsoft, as favourable when looking for employees. And different routes, apart from the degree path, are becoming increasingly available to applicants.
Qualifications and entry requirements can change from those given so check carefully when making applications for college courses or jobs.

Opportunities

There are opportunities with companies that have traditionally relied on filing systems and huge research teams to store and collect information such as:

• schools
• universities
• banks
• retail businesses
• insurance companies
• manufacturing firms.
• Vacancies are not as numerous as in other areas of IT employment.

Annual Income

Further information

Sybase UK
http://www.sybase.co.uk

Microsoft UK
http://www.microsoft.com/uk

Oracle
http://www.oracle.com

IBM UK
http://www.ibm.com/uk