Office Support Services Manager Overview

As an Office Support Services Manager, you play a vital role in ensuring the efficiency of daily operations within an organization. Your responsibilities encompass a diverse range of tasks that are essential for maintaining an organized and productive office environment. Here are several key elements of the role:

  • Team Leadership: You supervise administrative staff and resources, guiding them to meet organizational goals. Your leadership fosters a collaborative atmosphere that enhances overall performance.

  • Process Improvement: You assess existing office procedures and implement changes to enhance efficiency. This continuous improvement process not only streamlines operations but also contributes to a more effective working environment.

  • Facilities Management: Overseeing office space utilization and ensuring that facilities meet the needs of employees is part of your duties. This involves coordinating with vendors and ensuring a safe, comfortable workspace.

  • Budget Management: You are often responsible for managing the office budget, tracking expenditures, and ensuring cost-effective solutions are employed, contributing to the organization's financial health.

  • Support Services Coordination: You manage various support services, such as receptionist duties, mailroom operations, and IT support, ensuring that these services are delivered smoothly and efficiently.

  • Communication Facilitation: You act as a liaison between various departments, promoting effective communication and collaboration. This role is essential for ensuring that information flows freely throughout the organization.

Your function as an Office Support Services Manager is not just limited to operational aspects; it is also about creating an environment where teams can thrive, thereby enhancing overall productivity and morale within the organization.

Office Support Services Manager Salary

Annual Median: $106,470
Hourly Median: $51.19

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education and Training To Become an Office Support Services Manager

To become an Office Support Services Manager, you typically need a solid educational background along with specific training. Here are the common educational qualifications and degree programs that align with this career:

  • Business Administration and Management

    • A degree in Business Administration provides foundational knowledge in various aspects of business operations and management principles. This program often covers organizational behavior, finance, marketing, and strategic planning, which are essential for managing office support services.
  • Office Management and Supervision

    • This specialized degree focuses on administrative practices and managerial techniques relevant to office environments. It equips you with skills in supervising staff, managing office operations, and understanding workflow processes, all critical for a managerial role in office support services.
  • Business Operations Support and Secretarial Services

    • A program in Business Operations Support and Secretarial Services emphasizes the knowledge and skills necessary for effective administrative support. You will learn about office technologies, communication practices, and project coordination, preparing you for various responsibilities in office management.
  • Executive Assistant and Secretary

    • While traditionally aimed at preparing individuals for support roles, this degree can also provide insights into high-level organizational skills and administrative operations. Training includes advanced office software applications, communication skills, and project management, which are valuable for an Office Support Services Manager role.

In addition to formal education, gaining practical experience through internships or administrative roles can further enhance your qualifications in this field.

Best Schools to become a Office Support Services Manager in U.S. 2024

University of Phoenix-Arizona

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$9,552
Out-of-State Tuition:$9,552
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:18%
Total Enrollment:88,891

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

In-State Tuition:$15,000
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,000
Admission Rate:96%
Graduation Rate:41%
Total Enrollment:164,091

Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT

In-State Tuition:$7,404
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,404
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:49%
Total Enrollment:156,935

Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, CO

In-State Tuition:$12,036
Out-of-State Tuition:$12,036
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:20%
Total Enrollment:24,808

Grand Canyon University

Phoenix, AZ

In-State Tuition:$16,407
Out-of-State Tuition:$16,407
Admission Rate:78%
Graduation Rate:45%
Total Enrollment:101,816

Liberty University

Lynchburg, VA

In-State Tuition:$15,467
Out-of-State Tuition:$15,467
Admission Rate:99%
Graduation Rate:66%
Total Enrollment:96,709
Office Support Services Manager Job Description:
  • Plan, direct, or coordinate one or more administrative services of an organization, such as records and information management, mail distribution, and other office support services.

Required Skills and Competencies To Become an Office Support Services Manager

  • Organizational Skills: You must effectively prioritize tasks, manage schedules, and coordinate various office activities to ensure a smooth workflow.

  • Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication abilities are essential. You need to convey information clearly and effectively to both team members and external stakeholders.

  • Leadership Skills: Your capability to lead, motivate, and manage a team is vital. You need to inspire trust and foster a positive work environment that encourages productivity.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: Being able to identify issues, analyze situations, and develop solutions promptly is important in maintaining operational efficiency.

  • Technical Proficiency: You should be well-versed in office software applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, and database management. Familiarity with office equipment and technology is also important.

  • Time Management: Effectively managing your time and juggling multiple responsibilities is key to meeting deadlines and supporting the team’s needs.

  • Attention to Detail: You must possess a keen eye for detail to ensure accuracy in documentation, reporting, and overall office procedures.

  • Customer Service Orientation: A strong focus on service is necessary. You need to respond to inquiries and issues with professionalism and care, ensuring a positive experience for clients and colleagues alike.

  • Interpersonal Skills: You must work well with others, build relationships, and handle conflicts as they arise, facilitating collaboration within the team.

  • Adaptability: Being flexible and open to change allows you to navigate a dynamic work environment and adjust to new processes or technologies as they emerge.

  • Project Management Skills: Planning, executing, and overseeing specific projects related to office operations are important capabilities, enabling you to manage resources effectively and meet project goals.

  • Financial Acumen: A broad understanding of budgeting and financial management will enable you to assist in managing office expenses and resources efficiently.

  • Process Improvement Mindset: You should continuously seek ways to enhance office processes and procedures to increase efficiency and effectiveness in your role.

Job Duties for Office Support Services Managers

  • Acquire, distribute and store supplies.

  • Prepare and review operational reports and schedules to ensure accuracy and efficiency.

  • Set goals and deadlines for the department.

Technologies and Skills Used by Office Support Services Managers

Data base user interface and query software

  • Microsoft Access
  • Yardi software

Enterprise resource planning ERP software

  • Microsoft Dynamics
  • Oracle PeopleSoft

Word processing software

  • Google Docs
  • Microsoft Word

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Reading work related information

Resource Management

  • Managing your time and the time of other people
  • Selecting and managing the best workers for a job

Social

  • Bringing people together to solve differences
  • Changing what is done based on other people's actions

Current Job Market and Opportunites for an Office Support Services Manager

The job market for Office Support Services Managers is currently experiencing steady demand, driven by businesses seeking to enhance operational efficiency and improve overall office functionality. As organizations increasingly prioritize the management of their administrative resources, your role becomes more significant.

  • Demand:

    • Many companies recognize the value of having dedicated professionals overseeing office support services. This creates a consistent demand for skilled managers who can coordinate various administrative tasks and ensure smooth operations.
    • Industries such as healthcare, finance, and technology often require office support structures to manage their growing operations, increasing the necessity for experienced managers in these sectors.
  • Growth Potential:

    • The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a positive outlook for jobs in administrative services management, which includes the role of Office Support Services Manager. This growth is fueled by businesses expanding and hiring more staff, necessitating robust office support systems.
    • Organizational changes, such as the shift to remote and hybrid work models, also demand innovative management strategies and practices. This evolution may broaden your responsibilities and opportunities for advancement within the field.
  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Major metropolitan areas with dense corporate activity, such as New York City, San Francisco, and Chicago, typically offer a wealth of job opportunities. The concentration of diverse businesses in these regions drives the need for effective office management services.
    • Additionally, emerging tech hubs like Austin, Seattle, and Denver are reporting significant growth in office support roles due to the influx of startups and established companies alike. These cities are becoming increasingly attractive for professionals seeking career advancement opportunities.
  • Remote Work Opportunities:

    • The rise of remote work has led to an increase in flexible positions, allowing you to explore job opportunities beyond geographical limits. Many companies are willing to hire Office Support Services Managers for remote or hybrid roles, broadening your potential job search.

Your ability to adapt to changing organizational needs and leverage technological advancements positions you well within this evolving job market. The ongoing demand for effective office support services underscores the crucial role you play in maintaining organizational productivity and efficiency.

Additional Resources To Help You Become an Office Support Services Manager

  • International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP)
    A professional organization for administrative professionals that offers resources, networking opportunities, and professional development.
    IAAP Website

  • American Society of Administrative Professionals (ASAP)
    This organization provides training, resources, and a network for administrative and office support professionals.
    ASAP Website

  • Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
    Offers detailed information on job outlook, salary statistics, and job descriptions for office support services managers and other related positions.
    BLS Office and Administrative Support

  • Office Dynamics International
    A resource center dedicated to administrative professionals and office managers, featuring webinars, articles, and training material.
    Office Dynamics Website

  • LinkedIn Learning
    Provides a variety of online courses tailored to the skills needed for office support services management, including leadership and project management.
    LinkedIn Learning

  • National Association of Professional Women (NAPW)
    This network provides resources for women in various professional roles, including administrative support. Membership includes access to webinars and networking opportunities.
    NAPW Website

  • Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
    While primarily focused on HR, SHRM also offers insight into office administration best practices, compliance, and management strategies.
    SHRM Website

  • Harvard Business Review
    A publication that frequently includes articles and research on management practices, leadership, and organizational skills relevant to office support services.
    Harvard Business Review

  • Administrative Professional Certification (CAP)
    Explore certification programs such as the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) that can enhance your qualifications and career prospects.
    IAAP Certification

  • Project Management Institute (PMI)
    A leading organization for project management information and certification that can benefit office support services managers overseeing projects.
    PMI Website

Utilize these resources to expand your knowledge, enhance your skills, and stay informed about industry trends as an Office Support Services Manager.

FAQs About Becoming an Office Support Services Manager

  • What are the primary responsibilities of an Office Support Services Manager?
    As an Office Support Services Manager, your main responsibilities include overseeing administrative functions, managing office supplies and equipment, ensuring a productive work environment, coordinating support staff, and implementing office policies and procedures.

  • What skills are essential for success in this role?
    Key skills required for an Office Support Services Manager include strong organizational abilities, effective communication, project management, problem-solving, leadership, and proficiency in office software and technology.

  • What qualifications do I need to become an Office Support Services Manager?
    Typically, you will need at least a bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, or a related field. Relevant experience in office administration or support services is also highly beneficial.

  • What is the typical salary range for an Office Support Services Manager?
    Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and company size. On average, you can expect a salary range of $50,000 to $90,000 annually, with the potential for bonuses and benefits.

  • What industries commonly hire Office Support Services Managers?
    You will find opportunities across various industries, including corporate businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and non-profits.

  • How can I advance my career as an Office Support Services Manager?
    To advance your career, consider pursuing additional certifications in project management or administrative leadership, gaining experience in larger organizations, and developing your management and leadership skills.

  • Is certification important for Office Support Services Managers?
    While certification is not mandatory, obtaining credentials such as the Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) or the Project Management Professional (PMP) can enhance your qualifications and career prospects.

  • What are the challenges faced by Office Support Services Managers?
    Common challenges include managing diverse team dynamics, ensuring compliance with policies, adapting to new technologies, and maintaining productivity amid changing organizational needs.

  • What technologies should I be familiar with as an Office Support Services Manager?
    Familiarity with office productivity software (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Workspace), project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello), and communication platforms (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams) is essential.

  • What is the job outlook for Office Support Services Managers?
    The job outlook is generally positive, as organizations continue to value efficient office management. However, demand may vary by industry and geographic location.

  • Can I work remotely as an Office Support Services Manager?
    Many organizations offer flexible work arrangements, including remote work, especially for positions that primarily involve virtual management of office functions and support staff.

  • What personal attributes are important for an Office Support Services Manager?
    Important attributes include patience, adaptability, attention to detail, a customer-service orientation, and the ability to work under pressure while managing multiple tasks.