A support coordinator is a professional who specializes in one of several areas within a business, and helps with the organizing, planning, and directing of activities within that area. He may work under a head coordinator or manager and act as a second-in-command for the direction of major projects. Other tasks may include directing others and planning company events.
One of the main jobs of the coordinator is that of manager or director. This person often works over several team members to guide them on what things need to be done and how they should be carried out. Nearly any department of a company could have a support coordinator, and in many large companies every department does have one.
Support coordinators also must work together with other department coordinators to discuss common company goals. For example, a new product launch may involve coordinators from the marketing, sales, design, and accounting departments. All of these people work together in order to make the product launch a success.
In some cases, the coordinator will help with the hiring of subcontractors for projects and events, as well as new employees, although this depends on the department he or she works in. An example of this would be a support coordinator working in the marketing department of a firm. He or she may help with the hiring of contractors who may provide graphic design, programming, or writing services to the company. He or she will also be partially responsible for overseeing the jobs these people do.
Sometimes, the support coordinator will help with the planning of a corporate event, such as a networking function. He or she may help find subcontractors to provide food, entertainment, and other additions. Other aspects such as planning a guest list may also be taken care of by the coordinator.
Most coordinators work under a general manager, supervisor, or head coordinator. They help to take some of the burden off of their superiors so that the company as a whole benefits. This requires a great amount of organization, team work, and drive to succeed.
To become a support coordinator, most people should receive a four-year college degree in business, marketing, accounting, or a related field. This is not the only way to land a job, but it is generally the fastest and most efficient way of doing so. Those who do not attend a four-year college may consider getting a lesser degree form a two-year school, or starting in a lower position and working up within the company.