Business Support Assistant

Description:

Surrey Fire and Rescue Service is hiring a Reception and Business Support Assistant on a 6-month fixed term contract to join their Business Support team based at Woodhatch Place, Reigate. This role serves as the first point of contact for visitors and callers to the headquarters, playing a vital role in managing reception duties and supporting the wider Fire and Rescue service.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and coordinate front desk and reception area operations

• Manage incoming calls via switchboard, directing callers appropriately, including occasional emergency calls

• Welcome visitors, ensuring health, safety, and security protocols are communicated and followed

• Produce and allocate service ID cards

• Administer room bookings and set up meeting facilities

• Manage incoming and outgoing mail and deliveries, including the post room

• Maintain stationery supplies and necessary tools for staff use

• Answer and route emails from personal and generic inboxes promptly

• Support administrative tasks and projects such as typing reports, letters, meeting minutes, and finance requests

• Collaborate with colleagues across the service to support teamwork and knowledge sharing

Rewards and Benefits

• 26 days’ holiday (pro-rated), increasing with years of service to 31 days

• Option to purchase up to 10 additional annual leave days

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) supporting health and wellbeing

• Up to 5 days of carer’s leave annually

• Paternity, adoption, and dependents leave

• Local government pension scheme

• Lifestyle discounts (gym, travel, shopping, etc.)

• 2 paid volunteering days per year

• Access to learning and development resources

Shortlisting Criteria

• Proven experience using switchboard systems efficiently

• Strong customer service skills with a natural, friendly, and welcoming manner

• Confidence and experience with Microsoft Office365 applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

• Ability to communicate clearly and calmly, especially in challenging situations

• Capability to remain composed and methodical under pressure

Application Process

Applicants must upload a CV and answer specific questions related to motivation for applying, experience with switchboards, handling dissatisfied customers, and communication in challenging environments.