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We are Hestia. We make a difference.

At Hestia, we are guided by our core values and are dedicated to fostering an equitable, diverse, and inclusive organisation. Our mission is to empower individuals to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. Right now, we are looking for a Receptionist / Administrator  to play a pivotal role in our Central Services team in London.

Sounds great, what will I be doing?

You'll be working alongside a small, friendly and fun team in our head office – some days will be pressured, some will be relaxed. Everyone is very approachable; we work hard but we enjoy what we do and go home knowing we are helping Hestia deliver fantastic support to some very vulnerable people.

Your role is essential to the smooth running of head office and includes management of the reception area, welcoming and guiding visitors, oversight of head office facilities and ensuring our new offices and meeting areas are maintained to a very high specification. 

The role involves delivering excellent customer service to staff and visitors at Hestia's Head Office, while ensuring the reception area remains secure, clean, and tidy. Responsibilities include managing all incoming and outgoing mail and deliveries, monitoring and responding to the Corporate Services email accounts, conducting inductions for new starters, and overseeing desk and room bookings.

In terms of facilities support, the role requires carrying out regular health and safety checks and maintaining updated documentation. The post holder acts as the lead Fire Marshal for the Head Office, coordinating a team of three marshals. They are responsible for ensuring all required health and safety compliance tests and inspections are completed, arranging maintenance and repairs as needed, and managing the office's supplies, including stationery and kitchen refreshments. They oversee the functioning of photocopiers and printers, support staff in using office equipment, and ensure the smooth daily operation of the Head Office by addressing any material faults and liaising with cleaning contractors to maintain standards.

Administratively, the role includes monitoring corporate invoices, processing payments with correct coding, and escalating any overspending or discrepancies to the Contracts Manager. It also involves managing orders for goods and services, updating the Corporate Services section of the intranet, and providing general administrative support to the Corporate Services Team. The post holder contributes to team reporting, offers guidance on sourcing goods and services, and participates in meetings with suppliers and other stakeholders when required.

What do I need to bring with me?

You'll need to be able to demonstrate the core skills this role requires as well as match our values and mission. You don't have to tick all the boxes right away; the important thing is that you're willing to learn. We also value lived experience of the areas we support, so if you feel comfortable, please do mention this on your application.

Here's what the team will be looking for

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of GCSEs in Maths and English (or equivalent), along with previous experience in a similar role or a customer service environment. They should possess a basic understanding of workplace health and safety, and have experience working collaboratively as part of a team. Proven ability to follow and improve administrative processes is essential, as are clear communication and strong interpersonal skills. The role requires competent IT skills, the ability to quickly learn new software, excellent attention to detail, and strong numeracy skills, particularly with MS Excel. Candidates must also be capable of managing and prioritising their workload effectively to meet deadlines and should be physically able to lift weights of up to 5kg.

Interview Steps

We keep our interview process simple, so you know exactly what to expect.

Shortlisting call: We have a team of dedicated recruitment specialists who will speak to you about your experience, motivations and values. They will also tell you about all the great work we do!

Face to face interview: Now you will have face to face interview with the hiring manager. Our interviews are value and competency based.

Don't be alarmed if there are other stages in the process, it's all part of the plan for some of our roles.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our services users come from all walks of life and so do we. We hire great people from a wide variety of backgrounds because it makes us stronger. We are committed to creating and maintaining a diverse and inclusive workforce and value the skills, abilities, talent and experiences, different people and communities bring to our organisation.

We are a disability confident employer

Hestia is proud to be a disability confident employer, dedicated to the employment and career development of individuals with disabilities. We offer a guaranteed interview scheme for all applicants with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria for the role they have applied for. We also provide reasonable adjustments during the selection and interview process, and throughout your employment with us.

Safeguarding Statement

Hestia is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of adults, children and young people who are potentially at risk, and we therefore expect all staff and volunteers to do the same. We require all staff to undertake internal and external safeguarding training throughout their employment with Hestia