Your First Six-Figure Role: Resumes for Emerging Leaders in Operations & Project Management

So, you’re at a crossroads in your career—maybe you’ve been managing small teams or handling key projects, and now you’re ready to take the next step into a six-figure role in operations or project management. You’ve got the experience, the leadership chops, and the drive, but how do you make sure your resume reflects that and attracts the attention of top employers?

It’s all about positioning yourself as an emerging leader who is ready to take on more responsibility and drive results at a higher level. Let’s dive into what your resume needs to show—and how to avoid the common pitfalls that can hold you back.

Showcase Your Leadership Skills—Without Being Overbearing

Leadership is about influence, not just authority. For emerging leaders, this means showcasing your ability to manage teams, guide projects, and influence outcomes—without necessarily having the formal title.

If you’ve been leading projects, heading cross-functional teams, or stepping in to mentor colleagues, make sure that’s front and center on your resume. Think: “Project Manager,” “Lead Coordinator,” or “Team Lead.” Use bullet points to highlight how you’ve driven projects to completion, made decisions under pressure, and supported team development.

Amanda Clark, CEO of Grammar Chic, puts it this way: “Resumes for emerging leaders need to strike a balance. You have to show you’re ready for the responsibility of a six-figure role, but you also need to make sure the experience you highlight is relevant to the senior-level responsibilities you’re aiming for. Don’t just tell them you led a project—tell them how your leadership changed the outcome of that project.”

Quantify Your Impact

The number one way to prove your worth? Numbers. When you’re aiming for a six-figure salary, employers want to see how you’ve added tangible value. Whether it’s streamlining processes, cutting costs, increasing efficiency, or boosting team productivity, make sure to include metrics and quantifiable outcomes.

For example:

• “Increased project efficiency by 20% by implementing agile project management strategies.”
• “Managed a team of 10+ employees across three departments, delivering projects on time and under budget.”
• “Saved the company $500K annually by restructuring vendor contracts.”

This not only makes your experience stand out but gives hiring managers a concrete sense of how you’ll contribute to their bottom line.

Highlight Your Strategic Thinking

As an emerging leader, you’re not just executing day-to-day tasks—you’re thinking strategically about long-term goals and company growth. Whether it’s improving workflows, forecasting future needs, or contributing to high-level decision-making, show how you’ve added strategic value.

Don’t just mention your technical skills—speak to how you’ve used them to drive company-wide initiatives. For example, instead of just stating that you managed a project management tool, explain how you implemented it across departments, improving overall company operations.

Don’t Overload Your Resume with Junior-Level Experience

At this stage, your resume should focus on your most recent and relevant experiences. While you may have started your career in a more junior position, it’s time to leave that behind. Keep your early career experience minimal—edit it down—unless it directly supports your current trajectory.

Instead, focus on your achievements in leadership roles. Even if you haven’t held the title of “Director” or “VP” yet, make sure your resume highlights the skills, achievements, and responsibilities that align with senior-level roles.

Tailor Your Resume to the Role

Every six-figure role is different, and you’ll need to customize your resume for each application. Tailor your resume to the specific job description by pulling out key skills and qualifications the employer is looking for—and matching them with your experience. Use industry-specific keywords that align with the role, but be sure to stay authentic to your experience.

One of the most common mistakes people make when applying for high-level roles is using a generic resume. In the competitive world of project management and operations, you need to go the extra mile to stand out. Make sure your resume speaks to your ability to contribute at a senior level, not just at entry-level or mid-level.

Professional Development and Certifications

If you’re aiming for a six-figure role, show that you’re committed to professional growth. Certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional), Six Sigma, or even advanced courses in leadership, business administration, or operations management can make a big difference.

Including these on your resume demonstrates that you’re not just qualified for the role, but that you’re actively working to expand your expertise and readiness for even greater responsibility.

Avoid Gimmicks and Keep It Professional

While some industries and roles may benefit from a creative resume design, when you’re aiming for a six-figure role, professionalism is key. Keep your resume clean, concise, and focused on your results and skills. Avoid unnecessary gimmicks or overly flashy elements that might distract from your qualifications.

Your resume needs to tell a story of leadership, impact, and strategic vision. It’s not just a list of past jobs, but a blueprint for your future contributions.

Ready to Take Your Career to the Next Level?

At Grammar Chic, we specialize in helping emerging leaders craft resumes that stand out in a competitive job market. We understand what recruiters and hiring managers are looking for—and we know how to position you for success.

Whether you’re targeting your first six-figure role or ready for an executive leap, our team of expert resume writers can help you put your best foot forward. Reach out today to schedule a consultation!