ILSE VOLSCHENK
Operations Administration
Bredell, Kempton Park
Work Preference
Summary
Highly organized Office Management, Operations and Sales Support professional with more than 20 years’ experience keeping busy business environments running smoothly across administration, internal sales, financial administration, procurement, inventory control, logistics and export operations. Experienced in managing complex workflows, maintaining accurate systems, coordinating stakeholders and supporting the full sales cycle from enquiry and quotation through to invoicing, reporting, logistics documentation and customer follow-up. Recognized for taking ownership, solving problems proactively and bringing structure to fast-moving environments, with the ability to work independently while supporting teams across sales, finance, operations and logistics.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
2
2
Languages
Work History
General Office Manager
HYDRAMATICS CONTROL EQUIPMENT
Linbro Park, Gauteng
09.2024 - 07.2026
- Streamlined office operations by implementing efficient scheduling and resource allocation processes.
- Organized and updated databases, records and other information resources.
- Managed vendor relationships to ensure timely delivery of supplies and equipment.
- Supervised administrative staff, fostering a collaborative work environment and enhancing team performance.
- Developed and maintained office policies to improve workflow and productivity standards.
- Coordinated internal communications, promoting transparency and effective information sharing among departments.
- Oversaw budget management, ensuring adherence to financial policies while optimizing resource utilization.
- Analyzed operational workflows, identifying areas for process improvement and cost reduction strategies.
- Streamlined office operations by implementing efficient filing systems and organizational strategies.
- Coordinated events and meetings, ensuring all necessary arrangements were made in advance for successful execution.
- Maintained accurate financial records, contributing to better budget forecasting and resource allocation decisions.
- Ensured compliance with company policies and legal regulations through regular review of documentation and processes.
- Established a positive work culture by promoting teamwork, open communication, and recognition of employee achievements.
- Developed a strong team environment, fostering collaboration and communication among staff members.
- Improved cash flow management with timely invoicing and diligent follow-up on overdue accounts.
- Reduced operational costs by negotiating with vendors for more favorable contract terms.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by resolving complaints promptly and professionally.
Senior Internal Sales & Export Coordinator
CABLE FEEDER SYSTEMS AFRICA
Linbro Park, Gauteng
09.2018 - 08.2024
- Served as a key point of contact for clients throughout the entire sales process, ensuring their needs were prioritized and addressed promptly.
- Facilitated smooth order processing by liaising with various departments such as logistics, finance, and production teams.
- Developed strong working relationships with key clients to foster trust and loyalty, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
- Managed a high volume of inbound inquiries, providing timely and accurate information on products, pricing, and availability.
- Collaborated closely with external sales representatives to ensure seamless communication and coordination between teams.
- Tracked all sales activities using CRM software, ensuring data accuracy for reporting purposes and informed decisionmaking.
- Handled inbound prospect calls to provide product information, answer questions and resolve purchase hesitations.
- Built relationships with customers and community to establish long-term business growth.
- Achieved sales goals and service targets by cultivating and securing new customer relationships.
- Implemented systems and procedures to increase sales.
- Organized promotional events and interacted with community to increase sales volume.
- Coordinated logistics operations to optimize supply chain efficiency and reduce delays.
- Managed inventory systems to ensure accurate stock levels and timely replenishment.
- Developed shipping schedules that improved delivery times and customer satisfaction.
- Tracked orders and notified customers of status or potential delays.
Internal Sales
EVERITE BUILDING PRODUCTS
Kliprivier, Gauteng
02.2016 - 08.2018
- Managed inbound customer calls and general sales enquiries.
- Prepared quotations and processed customer orders.
- Provided customer service and administrative support throughout the sales process.
- Maintained accurate order information and customer correspondence.
Sales Assistant
PROJECTS IQ
Eastcliff, Gauteng
06.2014 - 01.2016
- Provided administrative support to external sales personnel.
- Coordinated and scheduled client appointments.
- Assisted with month-end reporting and sales administration.
- Maintained organised records and supported daily office operations.
Internal Sales Coordinator
PENNYWARE DISTRIBUTORS
Industria West , Gauteng
09.2010 - 05.2014
- Managed customer calls, quotations, order processing and correspondence while maintaining accurate customer and order records.
Restaurant & Booking Manager
LEOPARD ROCK COFFEE SHOP & LOOKOUT CHALETS
Oribi Gorge, KwaZulu Natal
01.2004 - 08.2010
- Managed restaurant and accommodation bookings, staff scheduling, cash-ups, stock control, housekeeping coordination, transport arrangements and customer service across daily operations.
- Part-time: 2004 / Permanent: 2006 – August 2010
Education
Matric - High School
Hoërskool Suid Natal
Port Shepstone, KwaZulu-Natal01.2005
Skills
Office administration
Staff training and development
Budgeting and finance
Customer service
Clear oral/written communication
Organizational skills
Inventory control
Document management
Bookkeeping
Accomplishments
- Built an export sales and logistics administration function from the ground up.
- Supported international business operations and expansion into multiple regions.
- Improved administrative workflows and turnaround times by introducing better systems, structured processes and organised document control practices.
- Implemented and maintained organised digital filing and document management systems.
- Centralised procurement activities and supported cost-conscious sourcing and supplier negotiations.
- Improved financial administration through accurate invoicing, payment allocation and follow-up processes.
- Developed a reputation for reliability, initiative and the ability to bring structure to complex, fast-moving environments.
Timeline
General Office Manager
HYDRAMATICS CONTROL EQUIPMENT
09.2024 - 07.2026
Senior Internal Sales & Export Coordinator
CABLE FEEDER SYSTEMS AFRICA
09.2018 - 08.2024
Internal Sales
EVERITE BUILDING PRODUCTS
02.2016 - 08.2018
Sales Assistant
PROJECTS IQ
06.2014 - 01.2016
Internal Sales Coordinator
PENNYWARE DISTRIBUTORS
09.2010 - 05.2014
Restaurant & Booking Manager
LEOPARD ROCK COFFEE SHOP & LOOKOUT CHALETS
01.2004 - 08.2010
Matric - High School
Hoërskool Suid Natal
Work Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Quote
Between two evils, I generally like to pick the one I never tried before.
Mae West
References
References available on request.
Languages
English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Afrikaans
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Personal Information
Driving License: Code B Driver's Licence
Interests
Home improvement & DIY
Visiting Hardware stores to find everything I never needed
Cover Letter
- Dear Hiring Manager
- I am excited to submit my application for an office management, operations administration, sales support or logistics coordination role.
- With more than 20 years’ experience across administration, internal sales, financial administration, procurement, inventory control, import and export logistics, I offer the practical business support needed to keep busy teams organised, responsive and moving forward.
- In my recent roles, I have managed end-to-end sales administration from quotation and order processing through to invoicing, payment follow-up, customer communication and accurate record keeping. I have also coordinated supplier communication, customs clearance, logistics documentation and delivery support, helping businesses maintain clear processes and reliable service across local and cross-border operations.
- One of my strongest achievements was building and managing an export sales administration function from the ground up, creating structure for customer communication, documentation, order processing and logistics coordination. I am confident working with systems such as Advanced Excel, Zoho CRM, Zoho Inventory, Zoho Books, Microsoft Dynamics Business Central, Accpac, Pastel and JD Edwards, and I bring a hands-on approach to improving workflows, document control and daily business administration.
- I am known for taking ownership, solving problems proactively and bringing structure to fast-moving environments. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience in office management, sales administration, financial administration and logistics support can contribute to your team.
- Kind regards
- Ilse Volschenk
References
References available on request.
Personal Information
Driving License: Code B Driver's Licence