Overview of the ESU
We believe every child should be able to make their voice heard, and that the ability to progress and to thrive in life relies on building speaking and listening skills. Our oracy, debate, public speaking and cultural exchange programmes help young people to engage with the world, to speak more confidently, and to listen to and understand different points of view.
The ESU was founded as a membership organisation, bringing together those who share a belief that better communication makes for better global understanding. Today, we have members across England and Wales who meet to socialise, gain new perspectives on the world and to help organise and raise funds for our educational work. There is also a strong international membership and global educational network. The ESU is currently going through a period of exciting growth and development.
Purpose of this role
The Receptionist is the first point of contact for visitors, members, guests and staff at Dartmouth House, providing a warm, professional and welcoming experience for everyone who enters the building. The role is responsible for the smooth day-to-day operation of reception, delivering high-quality administrative support and ensuring front-of-house services run efficiently. The Receptionist will also provide a concierge-style service for visitors, assisting with enquiries, refreshments and helping to maintain the high standards expected of Dartmouth House.
Responsibilities and Expectations
· Act as the first point of contact for all visitors, providing a professional, friendly and welcoming reception service.
· Answer and direct incoming telephone calls and respond to general enquiries.
· Welcome visitors, contractors, trustees, members and guests, ensuring appropriate sign-in and security procedures are followed.
· Manage the reception area, ensuring it remains tidy, welcoming and well presented at all times.
· Receive, sort and distribute incoming post and deliveries mail and couriers.
· Provide general administrative support, scanning, photocopying, data entry and document preparation.
· Provide refreshments for meetings and a small number of guests, including preparing tea, coffee and light refreshments.
· Offer a concierge-style service by assisting visitors with directions, local information, and other reasonable requests.
· Support the Chief Operating Officer and Executive Assistant with administrative tasks and projects.
· Assist with health and safety procedures, including reporting maintenance issues and helping to ensure reception and communal areas remain safe and presentable.
· Maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive information.
· Undertake any other duties appropriate to the role as reasonably requested
Behaviours
· Creates a welcoming and positive first impression for everyone visiting Dartmouth House.
· Takes pride in delivering excellent customer service.
· Remains calm, organised and professional when managing competing priorities.
· Builds positive working relationships with colleagues, visitors and suppliers.
· Takes ownership of tasks and follows them through to completion.
· Uses initiative to solve problems and identify practical solutions.
· Maintains discretion and confidentiality.
· Pays close attention to detail and works accurately
Skills and Knowledge
· Confident using Microsoft Office and other office systems.
· Able to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing.
· Able to organise work effectively and manage changing priorities.
· Able to prepare meeting rooms and provide hospitality to a high standard.
Pay: £28,000.00-£32,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Cycle to work scheme
- Health & wellbeing programme
- Life insurance
- Sick pay
Work Location: In person