Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Hi, I’m

Yolandy Stander

Christchurch,CAN
Yolandy Stander

Summary

At Middleton Grange School, one of Canterbury's most respected education institutions, I've had the privilege of working in its vibrant International College, supporting a diverse community of students from around the world. In my role, I thrive in a fast-paced environment, embracing challenges with a positive attitude and a problem-solving mindset. I love streamlining processes, lightening the load for the Director and Assistant Director, and ensuring everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.

As a highly motivated self-starter, I take ownership of my work, staying proactive and efficient without the need for micromanagement. I bring energy and enthusiasm to managing daily operations, creating systems that make work easier for everyone. I'm a natural collaborator, always finding ways to foster teamwork and create a supportive, engaged workplace. Whether it's tackling complex tasks, refining workflows, or building strong relationships with stakeholders, I approach every challenge with adaptability, reliability, and a smile.

Overview

20
years of professional experience

Work History

Middleton Grange International College

Administration Manager
10.2017 - Current

Job overview

Executive Support & Coordination

  • Provided hands-on support to the Director and Assistant Director of MGS International College, managing schedules, booking travel, and organizing marketing materials for both local and international partners.
  • Handled FTE statistics, finance management for short-term student groups, budgeting, and planning school trips (e.g., Queenstown, Hanmer Springs), ensuring smooth logistics and great experiences for students.
  • Organized and managed all arrangements for the Director's overseas marketing trips, ensuring everything ran seamlessly.

Student Enrolment & Immigration Compliance

  • Managed the full student enrolment process from start to finish, including processing enrolment contracts, issuing acceptance letters and offers, invoicing, and preparing receipts and offers for Immigration New Zealand.
  • Ensured parents, agents, and students fully understood all policies and procedures, providing clear and timely communication at every stage.
  • Closely monitored student attendance and compliance with visa conditions, keeping records accurate and up to date.

Financial & Budget Management

  • Managed the department's budget, setting annual financial plans, preparing monthly forecasts, and ensuring accurate tracking of expenses.
  • Reconciled daily bank statements, processed payments, and handled expense coding, keeping everything running smoothly.
  • Monitored spending to ensure cost-effective decisions while maintaining high-quality service.

Office Operations & Administration

  • Oversaw the daily running of the office, including scheduling meetings, taking minutes, booking school vans and rooms, and coordinating staff tasks.
  • Delivered friendly and professional face-to-face customer service, ensuring a welcoming experience for students, parents, and visitors.
  • Planned and executed staff and agent events, including catering, to strengthen relationships and engagement.
  • Led the collection of photos and information throughout the year to create the International College department's chapter in the school yearbook, capturing key moments and highlights.

Systems & Process Improvement

  • Managed and maintained key administrative systems, including Microsoft Office 365 (Word, Excel, SharePoint), KAMAR, eSchool, Canva, and website maintenance.
  • Handled police vetting for agents, guardians, and Residential Caregivers, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with regulations.
  • Conducted an annual review of policies and procedures to ensure compliance with The Education (Pastoral Care of International Students) Code of Practice, keeping documentation audit-ready at all times.
  • Prepared and maintained documentation for various audits, ensuring all records met the required standards.

Agent & Contract Management

  • Managed agent records and contracts, ensuring timely renewals and accurate documentation.
  • Acted as a key contact between the Director and education agents (both local and international), organizing meetings, processing contracts, issuing certificates, and managing commission payments.

Student Wellbeing & Support

  • Provided immediate support and inclusion for all international students from day one, ensuring they felt welcomed and supported in their new environment.
  • Worked closely with students on a variety of issues, from assisting with insurance claims to providing guidance on personal and wellbeing matters.
  • Maintained an open-door policy, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where students felt comfortable seeking help when needed.

Team Support & Leadership

  • Supervised and supported a team of administrative staff, providing clear guidance and encouraging a positive, productive work environment.
  • Reviewed office processes regularly, identifying ways to improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary steps.
  • Fostered teamwork and morale by promoting a collaborative and supportive workplace.

Facilities & Resource Management

  • Worked closely with the building manager and maintenance team to keep office spaces and facilities in top condition for staff and visitors.
  • Managed office supplies, including stationery, cleaning products, and refreshments, ensuring a well-stocked and organized workspace.

IAG - Insurance Australia Group Limited

Advisor II - Business Operations
04.2014 - 10.2017

Job overview

  • Processed policies across multiple portfolios for top broking firms (AON-CPF, Brokerweb, Crombie Lockwood).
  • Managed accounts, including bordereaux, statements, cancellations, and placing requests.
  • Liaised with internal and external stakeholders to resolve urgent matters efficiently.
  • Oversaw daily operations—refunds, filing, client service, and managing the team inbox.
  • Mentored junior advisors, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team.

IAG - Insurance Australia Group Limited

Advisor I - Business Operations
02.2013 - 03.2014

Job overview

  • Processed policies across multiple portfolios for leading broking houses (Brokerweb, Crombie Lockwood, AON, and Marsh) with speed and accuracy.
  • Ensured high-quality data entry while meeting productivity targets.
  • Collaborated with internal and external stakeholders to resolve urgent queries efficiently.
  • Handled daily office operations, including client service, filing, and administrative support.
  • Built strong, lasting client relationships to drive retention and trust.
  • Stayed up to date on industry trends and regulations, providing accurate and informed client support.

Volksblad Deli/Canteen

Owner
01.2009 - 01.2011

Job overview

  • Led day-to-day operations, exploring my entrepreneurial side and managing all aspects of the business.
  • Built strong client relationships, leading to repeat business and valuable referrals.
  • Ensured smooth daily operations, delegating tasks to team members for efficient execution.
  • Boosted customer satisfaction by streamlining processes and delivering outstanding service.
  • Managed financial operations, including budgeting, financial reporting, and tax preparation.

HR Colour Coatings

Administration Officer
01.2006 - 01.2009

Job overview

  • Trained and supervised staff, ensuring high performance and adherence to standards.
  • Handled customer inquiries with professionalism, providing timely and effective solutions.
  • Ensured full compliance with licensing, hygiene, and health & safety regulations.
  • Planned and executed catering events, delivering memorable experiences.
  • Managed complex schedules and deadlines, ensuring all tasks were completed on time.

IBS Solutions

Administration Support and Data Capturer
01.2005 - 01.2006

Job overview

  • Maintained strict confidentiality while handling sensitive client information and records.
  • Identified and corrected data entry errors to ensure accuracy and prevent duplication.
  • Managed document organization, including filing, photocopying, preparing correspondence, and generating reports.
  • Contributed to company growth by consistently exceeding daily data entry targets.
  • Delivered tasks on time while maintaining professionalism, even under pressure and tight deadlines.

Education

ISANA NZ
Auckland And Christchurch

from International Student Experience
11-2020

Australian & NZ Institute of Insurance & Finance

ANZIIF Jnr Assoc CIP (certified insurance professional)
01.2015

Courses Direct NZ

Office Management Certificate
01.2014

Welkom-Gimnasium High School
South Africa

High School Diploma
01.2001

Skills

  • Teamwork
  • Self-management
  • Customer service/focus
  • Organisational ability
  • Time management
  • Attention to detail
  • Microsoft Word & Excel
  • Communication skills
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Office management
  • Documentation and reporting
  • Staff training and development

Timeline

Administration Manager

Middleton Grange International College
10.2017 - Current

Advisor II - Business Operations

IAG - Insurance Australia Group Limited
04.2014 - 10.2017

Advisor I - Business Operations

IAG - Insurance Australia Group Limited
02.2013 - 03.2014

Owner

Volksblad Deli/Canteen
01.2009 - 01.2011

Administration Officer

HR Colour Coatings
01.2006 - 01.2009

Administration Support and Data Capturer

IBS Solutions
01.2005 - 01.2006

Courses Direct NZ

Office Management Certificate

ISANA NZ

from International Student Experience

Australian & NZ Institute of Insurance & Finance

ANZIIF Jnr Assoc CIP (certified insurance professional)

Welkom-Gimnasium High School

High School Diploma
Yolandy Stander