Administrative Services Manager

Administrative Coordinator, Administrative Manager, Administrative Officer, Business Administrator
Job Description

Administrative Services Managers are responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating supportive services of an organization. They oversee various functions, including mail distribution, recordkeeping, facility maintenance, and office upkeep.

Typical Preparation

Education: Bachelor's degree

Years in related career: Less than 5 years

On-the-job training: None

Outlook

Projected Growth: 5.6% (above average)

Annual job openings: 23,200

Direct AI exposure: 26% of tasks

Potential AI exposure: 74% of tasks

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $114K per year.
Bottom 10%Bottom 25%Median (average)Top 25%Top 10%
$67K
per year
$86K
per year
$114K
per year
$157K
per year
$208K
per year
Compared to other careers: Median is $63K above the national average.

What does an Administrative Services Manager do?

Intro video

(less than 2 minutes)

Duties

  • Oversees administrative operations such as mail distribution, recordkeeping, and office supply management.
  • Manages facility maintenance and ensures compliance with health and safety regulations.
  • Supervises administrative staff, including secretaries, assistants, and receptionists.
  • Develops, reviews, and improves administrative systems and procedures.
  • Handles space allocation, building security, and maintenance services.

Work environment

These managers typically work in office settings but may oversee physical facilities in multiple locations. The role often involves interacting with a range of staff and departments within an organization and requires a versatile approach to managing a diverse array of administrative functions.

Typical Schedule

Areas of specialization

  • Facilities Management: Focusing on the maintenance and functioning of physical buildings and facilities.
  • Records and Information Management: Specializing in the management and security of company records and data.
  • General Office Administration: Overseeing daily administrative operations of an office environment.
  • Health and Safety Compliance: Ensuring that workplace practices adhere to health and safety regulations.

Description

Administrative Services Managers are key to the smooth running of an organization's daily operations. They need to have a broad understanding of various administrative functions and the ability to coordinate these effectively. This role requires strategic planning skills to develop efficient administrative processes and systems. The ability to manage budgets, negotiate contracts with vendors, and oversee purchasing processes is also crucial.

Leadership and interpersonal skills are essential in this role. Administrative Services Managers must be capable of leading a diverse team, providing clear direction, and resolving conflicts. They need to be effective communicators, able to liaise between different departments and levels of management, ensuring that all administrative needs are met efficiently.

Staying organized and being able to multitask are key attributes for success in this role. Managers often have to juggle multiple responsibilities simultaneously, requiring excellent time management and prioritization skills. They must also be adaptable, able to respond to changing organizational needs and challenges.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

You might make a good Administrative Services Manager if you are...

Pros:

  • Diverse Responsibilities: This role involves a variety of tasks, ensuring a dynamic and interesting work environment.
  • Leadership Opportunities: It offers the chance to lead teams and manage operations, which can be very fulfilling for those with leadership inclinations.
  • High Demand: With businesses of all sizes needing efficient administration, there's a steady demand for administrative services managers.
  • Career Growth: There are opportunities for advancement into higher management roles.

Cons:

  • High-Stress Environment: The role can be demanding, with responsibility for ensuring smooth operation of multiple functions.
  • Long Hours: Managers often work beyond standard hours, especially during critical periods such as financial year-ends or project deadlines.
  • Constant Need for Adaptation: Keeping up with changes in technology, regulations, and best practices requires continual learning and adaptability.
  • Balancing Multiple Tasks: Managing several operations simultaneously can be challenging.

How to become an Administrative Services Manager

Typical education

A bachelor's degree in business administration, management, or a related field is commonly required. Some organizations may prefer candidates with a master's degree or relevant professional certifications.

High school preparation

Courses:

  • Business Studies: Offers foundational knowledge in business principles and management.
  • Computer Science: To gain proficiency in common office software and understand basics of information technology.
  • Mathematics: Useful for budget management and data analysis.
  • Psychology or Sociology: For understanding workplace dynamics and improving communication skills.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

  • Leadership Roles in Clubs or Teams: Developing leadership and organizational skills.
  • Volunteering for Organizational Roles: In events or community services, to gain practical experience in planning and coordination.
  • Part-Time Jobs or Internships in Office Settings: Provides exposure to a professional environment and develops workplace etiquette.

Preparation after high school

  • Bachelor's Degree: In business administration, management, or a related field.
  • Internships: Gain experience in administrative roles; internships are often a stepping stone to full-time positions.
  • Certifications: Such as the Project Management Professional (PMP) or Certified Administrative Professional (CAP), which can enhance job prospects.
  • Workshops and Seminars: In leadership, time management, and other relevant topics, to develop specific skills needed for the role.

More resources

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.