An operations coordinator is 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 schedules, meetings and goals of each department work in harmony. Her job is to spot conflicts early on and resolve them to the satisfaction of all involved parties. Depending on the industry and the discretion of the human resources director, the position may also be referred to as an events coordinator, information coordinator or center coordinator.

A coordinator of operations must be a master communicator to be effective and successful. If even one of the departments or managers she deals with has a change in plans, goals or objectives, it could significantly affect the company’s overall operations. Her role requires that she be able to quickly assess the effects of changing circumstances and develop coping strategies that minimally influence other departments. The ability to quickly and independently process ideas and implement changes is an invaluable attribute for an operations coordinator.

Proactively planning and scheduling projects is another important part of an operations coordinator’s job. This requires interacting with a myriad of outside agencies and organizations as well as making sure 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 numerous outside contractors, service providers and vendors to iron out details.

Excellent computer software skills are great assets for an operations coordinator. Being able to electronically communicate internally and externally saves time, and planning schedules is simplified through utilizing computer spreadsheet and calendar software. Expertise in creating visual presentations with multimedia software is also helpful.

An operations coordinator is often expected to administratively assist the operations manager in addition to her other responsibilities. This generally requires regular reviewing and sometimes revising of the manager’s schedule. The position also may require her to make travel and hotel arrangements for the operations manager and confirm itineraries.

Educational requirements for an operations coordinator vary greatly from company to company. A bachelor’s degree is sometimes required, but the requirement may be deferred if comparable work experience is evident. This work background could include clerical or administrative support positions that proved the candidate to be an excellent communicator and have proficient multi-tasking skills.