Operations Coordinator

MISSION STATEMENT
Move Language Ahead is committed to providing industry leading safe, educational, and cultural programmes to students from around the world. Students, families, and agents from around the world have chosen MLA for the quality of our language courses, for the established trust of our brand, and for the meticulous attention to detail in our packages.

MLA WELFARE AND SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT
MLA is committed to the welfare and safeguarding of children, young people and adults at risk. All students should expect to feel safe within all areas of our seasonal programme. The primary concern at all times is the interests and safety of each student and the organisation takes all reasonable steps to protect children from harm, discrimination or degrading treatment and to uphold their rights.

POSITION OVERVIEW
Assist with the recruitment, selection and onboarding of UK & Ireland Operations personnel.
Support the creation and updating of Job Descriptions for all UK operational roles.
Support the posting and distribution of job advertisements.
Maintain accurate up to date applicant records.
Oversee seasonal operations.
Manage vendor relationships.
Provide support for operational programmes, including transport and logistics.
Manage bookings, organise timetables, coordinate attractions and transport.
Handle administrative and clerical tasks.
Represent MLA values.
Act as a liaison between UK Operations and other departments.

REQUIREMENTS

• Essential: Must have a UK passport/right to work in the UK, and a valid DBS (England & Wales) or PVG (Scotland). If you’re based outside the UK, also a Criminal Record Check from your country of residence. Proven suitability to work with students under 18: at least 2 references. Be proficient in the use of IT.
• Desirable: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Operations, Education, International Relations, or a related field. Experience in operations, programme coordination, education services, or international programmes. Experience working with students, host institutions, or international partners. Prior experience overseeing a strict operating budget.

Person Specification
Proven ability to coordinate multiple programmes or projects simultaneously. Strong planning, scheduling, and logistics management skills. Experience managing databases, documentation, and reporting. High attention to detail and ability to meet tight deadlines, especially during peak programme periods. Ability to establish excellent relationships with our clients and service providers. Team player. Excellent communication skills (verbal, written and interpersonal). Ability to work both independently and as part of a team. Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills. Ability to work long hours in a high-pressure environment. Flexibility and adaptability. Ability to multi-task. Proficiency in Microsoft Office / Google Workspace (Excel, Word, Sheets, Docs). Ability to be pleasant, polite, and cooperative.

SCHEDULE
This is a full-time, 40 hour a week position. Working in the education travel industry. A flexible schedule to meet operational demands is required especially during the summer high season. This could mean additional work hours to include weekends or evenings when necessary. Report to Senior Operations Coordinator UK & Ireland. 5 working days per week (Monday – Friday). Working hours: 8:30am – 5:30pm. 1 hour lunch break.

KEY POSITION ACCOUNTABILITIES
Review itineraries and become knowledgeable with all aspects of the programmes. Plan and organise activities and excursions. Use the MLA software effectively. Work with Head Office to ensure centre operations and programmes are properly planned and delivered. Attend meetings with the Operational team and Head Office. Assist with the contracting, booking confirmations, payment of excursions and transport services. Act as a liaison between the UK Operations team and other departments within the company. Manage the full recruitment cycle from initial enquiry to confirmed enrolment. Qualify leads, provide accurate programme information, and guide applicants through the application process. Ensure applications are completed accurately and in line with MLA policies and timelines. Verify documentation and ensure compliance with visa, safeguarding, and programme requirements.

Training & CPD
Complete all required pre-employment training. Read and understand MLA policies sent during the recruitment process. Be open to feedback during appraisals and set your own developmental goals for you to work on during your time with MLA. Request guidance on and actively seek professional development to improve your skills.

Safeguarding & Welfare
Promoting the welfare of students and adhere to and comply with the MLA Safeguarding Policy. Provide safety and welfare assistance to students. Be vigilant for possible welfare problems of students. Report any issues which may be affecting students’ safety, wellbeing and performance. Be aware of relevant fire, health and safety issues around the MLA centre.

MLA REPUTATION AND CODE OF CONDUCT
To actively support MLA in its mission to provide quality learning. To provide courses that will challenge the students (realise their potential) and work together to reach their academic targets and support them. To comply with management requests to follow the guidelines of external organisations such as British Council in a timely and accurate manner. To be dressed in a presentable professional way and always start on time and if this is not possible to inform your manager as early as possible. Develop a good rapport with the students and Group Leaders and avoid absences as much as possible.

MLA EQUALITY STATEMENT
MLA Move Language Ahead is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to excellence through diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of age, gender, marital status, being pregnant or on maternity leave, race (including ethnic or national origin, nationality and colour), disability, sexual orientation or expression, religion, beliefs, or any other non-job related criteria.