This is the first article in the Operations series.
By Corey Mobley, internal communications student assistant
If you ever wondered how Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) operates from day to day and who the behind-the-scenes team members are that maintain the functionality of the institution, this “Get to Know GGC” series will help you better understand the institution’s Operations team.
Our internal communications team interviewed Christopher Smith, executive director of operations, for insight into his department’s services and how they help GGC thrive.
Operations keeps the campus running — from large events to small classroom moves. The team supports faculty, staff, students and the community through a wide range of services.
“We oversee a variety of areas that serve the campus community and beyond. However, it’s important to note that we are not Facilities — we are Operations.” Smith said.
Operations oversees the following:
- Events and ceremonies
- Fleet management
- Grounds and custodial services
- Space management and scheduling
- Compliance policies
- On-campus signage
The team of over 20 creates a positive customer service experience for everyone who interacts with them.
“Our priority is delivering outstanding customer service,” Smith explained. “Every service area we manage interacts with both internal and external audiences, so we’re committed to creating exceptional experiences across the board.”
That customer service-centered approach shapes the team’s workplace culture. They keep work in perspective, enjoy having fun while helping others and hold each other accountable to deliver quality work on time with every project.
The team’s impact stretches across campus life.
“Whether it’s commencement, landscaping, custodial work or external events, we ensure the work we do align with GGC’s brand reputation,” Smith said.
Collaboration is key
According to Smith, “Operations, Facilities, IT and Academics all come together to find the best path forward to meet the college’s needs.”
For example, the Operations team consistently works on new projects. They are currently collaborating with the School of Health Sciences to expand the nursing program’s cohorts.
To keep faculty and staff informed, they also update and expand communication tools.
“We built an Operations channel in the Employee Resources Team section that links to our SharePoint site,” Smith said. “We’re also partnering with Communications to create a public webpage that supports event planning. With so many activities on campus, we want to make it easy for everyone — especially new employees — to know how to get involved or organize events.”
Every day, the Operations team drives GGC’s mission forward by combining efficiency, collaboration and care to create a campus that truly works for everyone.
For more information regarding Operations, csmith77 [at] ggc.edu (email Christopher Smith).
Stay tuned to Inside GGC for profiles on Operations’ subgroups.
Resource
Employee Resources Team>Operations channel (GGC login required).