The Operations & IT Administrator will provide advanced administrative and technical support to the Operations Officer and wider Operations Department, ensuring the smooth and efficient delivery of compliance, estates, health & safety, safeguarding, IT, and procurement functions. This role combines high-level administration with responsibility for first-line IT support, database management, and technical troubleshooting, escalating more complex IT issues to our Third-Party IT support service where required. The postholder will be a key point of contact across sites, ensuring effective communication, efficient processes, and proactive problem-solving to support organisational excellence.
Administration & Operations
* Supporting the operations department with the preparation of monthly operational reports, ensuring data accuracy and timely submission.
* Oversee and maintain the company's equipment and resource inventory, ensuring compliance with audit requirements.
* Manage procurement processes, including ordering stock, equipment, and IT consumables.
* Liaise with and process payments for suppliers and contractors.
* Compile and record reports from monthly site inspections.
* Coordinate calendars, schedule meetings, and provide professional minute-taking support.
* Manage and resolve queries efficiently via telephone, correspondence, and in person.
IT & Technical Support
* Act as first point of contact for day-to-day IT queries, diagnosing and resolving routine hardware and software issues (e.g. connectivity, printing, user access).
* Support staff with IT and phone support requests, liaising with external service providers to ensure timely resolution.
* Work closely with our third-party IT support service to submit Microsoft new user request forms, Leaver forms, account close downs, and amended systems & access requests in a timely manner.
* Assist with the installation, configuration, and optimisation of computer hardware, software, and peripherals, ensuring devices are operational and tailored to user needs.
* Maintain system security by supporting user audits, software updates, and backup processes.
* Set up and manage door access cards for new users where appropriate.
* Arrange training and distribute guidance to staff on common IT applications (Microsoft Office, Teams, 365) and equipment use.
* Collaborate with the Management Team on IT-related projects and process improvements.
* Coordinate with IT vendors for procurement and support.
* Track and manage IT assets and inventory.
* Evaluate, research and recommend new technologies to improve operations as needed.
* Liaise with external suppliers to obtain quotes for new devices as required.
* Minimum of two years' experience in a combined administrative or IT support role, ideally within education or a regulated environment.
* Practical experience of hardware, software, and peripheral installation and troubleshooting.
* Experience of diagnosing and resolving basic IT issues.
* Excellent IT proficiency, particularly Microsoft Excel and Office applications.
* Proven ability to interpret and communicate technical information to both technical and non-technical staff.
* Strong organisational skills with meticulous attention to detail.
* Effective communicator with strong interpersonal skills.
* Proactive, self-motivated, and solution-focused.
* Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to remain calm under pressure.
* Professionalism, patience, and empathy when supporting colleagues with IT or administrative queries.
* Ability to balance technical and administrative responsibilities with a flexible approach, managing multiple tasks and prioritising effectively.
Desirable qualifications
* Experience with inventory and stock control systems.
* Demonstrable experience of managing multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
* Understanding of GDPR, DSPT, and data security compliance requirements.
* Experience in building positive working relationships with internal teams and external suppliers.
* Enthusiasm and drive for improvement.
* Ability to work successfully as part of a team.
* Commitment to safeguarding and safe practice.
* Commitment to Equal Opportunities.
* Determination and the highest expectations of work and behaviour.
* Sense of humour.
* Forward‑thinking, English and Maths qualification at GCSE grade A‑C (4‑9), Functional Skills Level 2, or equivalent.
* Working knowledge of Microsoft Desktop OS.
* Strong knowledge of Microsoft 365 applications, including Teams, Outlook, SharePoint, and Excel.
* NVQ Level 3 (Business Administration, IT, or equivalent) desirable.
* Understanding of database structures and data management.
* Knowledge of Wi‑Fi and networking in a commercial environment.
* Relevant IT certifications (e.g. CompTIA, Microsoft Fundamentals).
About the Outdoors Group
The Outdoors Group is a pioneering 'for purpose' organisation based in the county of Devon, providing opportunities for children, young people and adults to access education, training and fun experiences in outdoor settings. We are all about creating a fun and fantastic place to work with a strong emphasis on work‑life balance as part of a community of like‑minded people, focusing on providing excellent opportunities for all our learners, customers and staff.
The Outdoors School is an Independent Special School that is based solely outside in a woodland setting for learners with SEMH and ASD needs. For all our roles, a DBS and reference checks are required. The Outdoors Group Ltd is committed to the safeguarding of all staff, children, young people and vulnerable adults involved in its activities and in promoting their welfare.
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