Processing logic may obtain a resource of a platform fora containerized application. The platform may include custom resources, and an operator that manages the custom resources during runtime of the containerized application. In response to an indication being defined in the resource, processing logic may schedule an upgrade to a new operator. Processing logic may perform one or more pre-installation actions or post-installation actions that are defined in the resource to manage the installation of the new operator in a controlled manner and reduce the risk of incompatibilities between the new operator and the custom resources.