An Operations Coordinator is responsible for ensuring that the daily activities of a business or organisation run smoothly and efficiently. This role involves managing schedules, liaising between departments, handling logistics, and supporting project delivery. Operations Coordinators often support managers and teams by organising meetings, maintaining records, and helping to solve problems that arise during day-to-day operations. Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate well with others are essential in this career. Operations Coordinators work in a variety of sectors, including retail, logistics, healthcare, and hospitality.
The average salary for an Operations Coordinator in the UK ranges from £22,000 to £32,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
There were over 8,000 job postings for Operations Coordinators across the UK in 2023, with demand highest in London, Manchester, and Birmingham.
Operations Coordinators usually work full-time hours, typically 37 to 40 hours per week, with occasional overtime required to meet business needs.
Handles the organisation and tracking of deliveries, shipments, and inventory to ensure goods move efficiently within a business.
Assists with the planning, scheduling, and administration of projects, ensuring tasks are completed on time and resources are well managed.
Manages the day to day operations of office spaces or buildings, coordinating maintenance, supplies, and office services.
Achieve at least five GCSEs at grades 4 to 9 including English and Maths.
GCSEs are the basic entry requirement for most administrative and office-based roles in the UK. English and Maths are particularly important because the role involves communication and numeracy skills. Consider taking subjects like Business Studies or ICT to gain relevant knowledge.
Get involved in activities that build your teamwork, communication, and planning abilities.
You can develop these skills by joining clubs, volunteering, or taking on leadership roles in school projects. Consider part-time work in retail or hospitality to practise dealing with people and managing tasks.
Complete A-levels or a Level 3 vocational qualification, such as a BTEC in Business Administration or Management.
A-levels in subjects like Business, Economics, or ICT can be beneficial. Alternatively, a BTEC or similar vocational course offers practical experience and knowledge directly related to business operations.
Apply for a business administration or operations apprenticeship to gain practical, on-the-job experience.
Apprenticeships are a great way to learn while you earn. You will work in a real business environment, learn from experienced colleagues, and gain recognised qualifications, often leading to permanent positions.
Look for jobs such as Administrative Assistant, Office Junior, or Operations Assistant.
These roles provide experience in the day-to-day running of an organisation. You will gain valuable insights into how businesses operate and develop practical skills needed for an Operations Coordinator role.
Use your experience and training to apply for an Operations Coordinator position.
After gaining a few years of experience and demonstrating your organisational abilities, you can progress to an Operations Coordinator role. Continue to develop your skills through further training, short courses, or even a university degree in business management if desired.
Manages the transportation and storage of goods, ensuring products move efficiently through supply chains.
Provides administrative support to project managers, helping to organise resources, track progress, and communicate with stakeholders.
Oversees the day-to-day running of an office, including supervising staff, managing budgets, and ensuring smooth operations.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Operations Coordinator. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
An Operations Coordinator shares similarities with an Operational researcher as both roles involve analysing processes, improving efficiency, and coordinating various activities within an organisation. Both positions require strong organisational skills, problem-solving abilities, and a focus on streamlining operations to achieve set objectives.
You can get into this job through:
You'll usually need a degree in maths and operational research, or a related subject that contains a high proportion of maths, for example:
Some employers may prefer you to have a postgraduate qualification in operational research or management science.
You'll usually need:
You could apply to do an Operational Research Specialist Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship.
This apprenticeship typically takes 2 years to complete.
Most trainee operational researchers are graduates with strong maths and analytical skills.
Most people following this route have:
a degree in a relevant subject
You could apply for a place on the Government Operational Research Service Fast Stream scheme.
To be eligible, you'll need a degree in maths, or a combined degree or degree apprenticeship that has a high maths content. A postgraduate award in a maths related subject may also be acceptable.
You could join The Operational Research Society for professional development opportunities.
You can find out more about careers in operational research from The Operational Research Society.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
01603 273515
Email
[email protected]
Copyright 2025 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.
Unlock expert-designed lessons, resources, and assessments tailored for educators. No credit card required.
Claim Your Free Trial →
