The town of Rhayader in Powys is claiming bragging rights for having the UK’s tallest ‘handled’ Christmas tree for the 60th year running. 

Every year since 1959, volunteers have collected a 35ft tree, which is now donated by Welsh Water and Elan Estate, and placed it in front of the town clock. 

Meanwhile, the UK’s tallest living tree has once again been lit up with decorations. 

The 110ft tall redwood, which was planted in 1890 at Wakehurst Place, near Ardingly in Sussex, has been draped with 1,800 lights. Two huge mobile elevated platforms were needed to carry out the decorations. 

While residents of most of the UK’s villages, towns and cities are enjoying the wonderful sights and sounds of decorated trees, carols and Christmas lights, during this busy holiday period admin staff are still hard at work keeping businesses running smoothly. 

They can be thought of as the UK’s elves, an entire army who make sure Christmas is fun for everyone and whose roles are incredibly varied. 

If you’re a skilled administrator, secretary or PA, you can find a match for your talents in almost every sector – as a quick look at the vacancies online reveals. 

Land a new job in admin and in many ways you’ll be taking your cues from Santa Claus himself. 

Keeping Record 

Santa studies the name of every child in the world and takes notes about whether they’ve been naughty or nice. This means he can deliver the correct presents to the correct address…and more importantly, the present they deserve! 

The art of accurate record keeping is equally important for admin pros in every industry. 

Admins who work in universities and colleges need to know in the students and their teachers in detail – maintaining an up-to-date database while ensuring all records meet the new GDPR standards.  

They also manage diaries, make travel arrangements and direct recruitment activities.  

Planning Ahead 

In order to visit every home with presents, Santa must first chart his voyage around the planet.  

While not as complex as Santa’s schedule, logistics can be a big challenge in any business, especially during the holidays. 

A secretary will often work alongside company managers to ensure the smooth delivery of products or services. They’re also first-class administrators and receptionists. 

Taking Stock 

Not even Rudolf can fly around the globe without stopping for carrots. That’s why Santa is excellent at organising enough food for all of his reindeer. 

Similarly, working in admin in the hospitality and tourism sectors can involve managing stock for restaurants and hotels – ensuring there is enough fresh produce over the holiday period is a top priority.  

This admin post can also involve taking care of reception, bookings, payments, payroll and invoicing. 

And, just like Rudolf, if you love travelling the globe, the role often offers opportunities to work abroad. 

Staying Healthy 

He may be known for being big and jolly but Santa actually sticks to a strict exercise regime that balances mince pies with workouts. 

Many admin staff recognise the importance of a good work-life balance because they work in healthcare. 

A medical receptionist, for example, has strong admin skills and excellent customer service. As the first person patients meet when they come to a clinic or hospital, having people skills is a must. 

Alternatively, if you prefer to operate behind the scenes, working with medical records could be for you. 

Supporting Learning 

Even when the schools are still on holiday for Christmas, admins who work in education can be busy preparing for the return of the little ones. 

A school can be a great place to put admin talents to work, with duties that include general admin and finance, data management and even giving IT support.  

If you enjoy feeling part of a community, a school admin role will be highly satisfying. 

Don’t be the elf left on the shelf . . . if you’d like to work in admin you can find a huge variety of vacancies online now.