Account Security Problems

How to Reassign Microsoft 365 and SharePoint Administrator Rights

Maira Mehtab Sep 20, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user needs to assign Microsoft 365 or SharePoint administrator permissions to another user, typically required when the primary organization administrator is unavailable.

Product: Microsoft 365
Device & OS: not provided
Scenario: The current organization administrator is unavailable, and administrator capabilities must be transferred or shared with another user.
Observed behavior: Another existing administrator must navigate the Microsoft 365 admin center to grant the necessary Global or SharePoint Administrator roles to the designated user.

Before you start

Ensure you currently have Global Administrator privileges in your Microsoft 365 tenant, as only an existing global admin can assign or modify other administrator roles.

Solution 1Recommended

Reassign Administrator Rights via Microsoft 365 Admin Center

Use the active users list in the admin center to manage and assign specific administrator roles like Global Administrator or SharePoint Administrator.

This method allows any existing Global Administrator to manage permissions and ensure that business operations continue smoothly even when the primary administrator is absent.

Access the Admin Center

Navigate to Active Users

In the left navigation pane, click on 'Users' and then select 'Active users'.

Select the Target User

Scroll through the list or use the search bar to find and click on the name of the user you want to grant administrator rights to.

Manage Roles

In the user's details pane that slides out, navigate to the 'Roles' section and click 'Manage roles'.

Assign the Appropriate Role

Select the appropriate role, such as 'Global Administrator' or 'SharePoint Administrator', and click 'Save changes' to apply the new permissions.

Principle of Least Privilege: Assign only the administrator role required for the user's specific responsibilities instead of unnecessarily granting full Global Administrator access. This helps maintain tenant security.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I assign multiple administrator roles to a single user in Microsoft 365?

Yes, you can assign multiple specific roles to a single user in the Microsoft 365 admin center by checking the boxes next to all the roles they require under the 'Manage roles' section.

What happens if the only Global Administrator leaves the company?

If the sole Global Administrator leaves and you cannot access their account, you must contact Microsoft Data Protection support to verify your identity and business ownership to regain admin access to the tenant.

Does a SharePoint Administrator also have access to Exchange admin centers?

No, the SharePoint Administrator role only grants access to manage SharePoint and OneDrive environments. To manage Exchange, the user needs the specific Exchange Administrator role or the overarching Global Administrator role.

Can I assign a role temporarily?

Yes, if your organization uses Azure AD Privileged Identity Management (PIM), you can assign time-bound administrator roles that automatically expire after a set duration.

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