A branch manager manages a regional office, overseeing employees and day-to-day operations, including scheduling, staffing, equipment maintenance, and inventory management. They also handle mail distribution and may be responsible for human resource management.
A branch manager is hired by a company to fully manage a regional office. The exact scope of a branch manager’s responsibilities will change depending on the size of a company, but duties often include managing employees and handling the day-to-day running of an office. This can include answering phones, filing, scheduling, and handling pickups and deliveries. In larger offices, a branch manager will oversee the individual employees responsible for each of the above tasks. Basic human resource management, such as hiring and training, may also be part of a branch manager’s job description.
Companies can have multiple offices in one region or country to manage operations in different areas. Each branch needs an office manager to look after its function and operation. Inside an office, the branch manager sees that all work is done in the way that best suits the company’s needs. To that end, the branch manager may be responsible for determining the number of employees required for a specific task and may also be responsible for defining the specific job description for each job. Staff coordination is a primary responsibility of the branch manager.
Scheduling for each employee is also typically handled by the office manager. This is a juggling act that requires meeting staffing needs while allowing for individual employee scheduling conflicts. When an employee needs time off, such as vacation or maternity leave, the manager ensures coverage is provided. If a business grows with increasing profits or the number of customers, the branch manager hires additional staff. This includes reviewing resumes, scheduling interviews and conducting new training.
In addition to staff management, the branch manager will ensure that all the equipment needed for the job is in working order. Computers, copiers, fax machines and phone lines may be serviced by one member of the information technology team, but it is the office manager who is responsible for purchasing new equipment and scheduling service repair times. Inventory management and purchasing supplies are other areas handled by an office manager. This includes purchasing paper, pens, shipping and packaging products, and office break room supplies.
Mail is another important area overseen by a branch manager. Every day, company mail needs to be sorted, distributed, and archived. Usually, another employee is in charge of handling the mailroom. The manager supervises this employee and ensures that everything is handled correctly.
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