An operations coordinator is the person in charge of organizing and synchronizing the activities of various managers and departments within a company. Unlike an operations manager, who directs the company’s actual operations, an operations coordinator makes sure that the schedules, meetings and goals of each department work in harmony. His or her job is to spot conflicts early on and resolve them to the satisfaction of all of the involved parties. Depending on the industry and the discretion of the human resources director, the position might also be referred to by another title, such as events coordinator or information coordinator.
Communication Skills
This person must be a master communicator to be effective and successful. He or she also must be able to adapt quickly to change. If even one department changes its plans, goals or objectives, it could significantly affect the company’s overall operations. The coordinator's role requires him or her to quickly assess the effects of changing circumstances and develop strategies that will minimally influence other departments. The ability to quickly and independently process ideas and implement changes is an invaluable attribute for an operations coordinator.
Planning and Scheduling
Proactively planning and scheduling projects is another important part of an operations coordinator’s job. This requires interacting with outside agencies and organizations as well as making sure that the company’s key personnel are available as needed. Many times, the job entails simultaneously arranging multiple projects, which requires exemplary scheduling and time management skills. It also requires meeting with outside contractors, service providers and vendors to settle on specific details.
Computer Skills
Having excellent computer software skills is a great asset for an operations coordinator. Being able to electronically communicate internally and externally saves time, and planning schedules is simplified by the use of computer spreadsheet and calendar software. Expertise in creating visual presentations with multimedia software also can be helpful.
Supporting the Operations Manager
An operations coordinator is often expected to assist the operations manager in addition to his or her other responsibilities. This generally requires regular reviewing and sometimes revising the manager’s schedule. The position also might require him or her to make travel and hotel arrangements for the operations manager and to confirm itineraries.
Qualifications
Educational requirements for an operations coordinator position vary greatly from one company to another. A bachelor’s degree is sometimes required, but the requirement might be waived if comparable work experience is evident. A suitable work background might include clerical or administrative support positions that proved the candidate to be an excellent communicator and to have proficient multitasking skills.