Front Desk Receptionist

Buckles Solicitors LLP is an award-winning firm, that provides world-class client experience and services on a comprehensive range of legal services to both businesses and individuals in the UK and internationally.

Delivering effective and cost-efficient legal solutions from our offices based in Cambridge, London, Nottingham, Peterborough, Stamford, Bristol, Swindon, with international presence in Paris and Milan.

We recognise that all this is possible due to our team of highly dedicated, enthusiastic professionals across our locations. We pride ourselves on providing a positive work environment where independent thinking and new ideas are actively encouraged and where every member of the team genuinely can make a difference.

Buckles carries the LawNet Mark of Excellence and is Investor in People Gold accredited.

The role purpose:

We are looking for a highly organised and personable Front of House (FOH) Associate to be the welcoming face of our Cambridge Office and to manage the smooth operation.

The FOH Associate will be responsible for providing a warm and professional greeting to all visitors, managing front desk activities, and overseeing various office administration tasks.

This role requires excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask effectively. You will play a key part in ensuring a positive experience for clients, visitors, and staff while maintaining a well-organised and efficient office environment.

This position is a full-time permanent office-based opportunity (37.5 hours per week) and working Monday – Friday 08:30 -17:00 with a 1-hour lunch break each day.

Key responsibilities:

• Meet and greet visitors and clients in a professional and courteous manner, ensuring they are properly directed or announced.

• Understand client needs, follow up to ensure expectations are met or exceeded, and proactively develop client care strategies in line with the company vision. Provide tea, coffee, and other refreshments to clients attending meetings or appointments, ensuring their comfort and a welcoming experience.

• Responsible for unlocking or locking up the main reception door and ensuring the reception area is always tidy and presentable.

• Set up and clear down client meeting rooms at the end of meetings and assist with events or larger internal meetings as directed by the Office Manager. Perform daily checks of meeting rooms for tidiness and supply levels.

• Book and arrange UK travel and accommodation for staff members via the Facilities portal, ensuring all arrangements meet company standards.

• Process client payments by cheque, providing clients with relevant receipts and maintaining accurate records.

• Scan, copy, and certify client identification documents as required. Manage the internal delivery of documents and deliveries daily.

• Book couriers upon request through the Facilities portal, ensuring timely and accurate deliveries.

• Perform weekly fire tests to ensure compliance and that the alarm is audible throughout the building.

• Maintain a visitor log, manage visitor badges, and ensure visitors follow security protocols.

• Prepare the client list for the following day and carry out any other administrative duties as required.

• Support sustainability efforts by administering energy-saving measures, recycling programs, and promoting environmentally friendly practices within the office.

• Arrange catering and provide refreshments for internal and external client meetings and events as required.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in a front-of-house or client-facing role and basic knowledge of health and safety (H&S) protocols.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a professional and friendly demeanour.

• Strong organisational skills and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.

• Proficient in using office and facilities management software.

• Attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team.

Personal Attributes:

• Committed to delivering high standards of client care and hospitality.

• Ensures all tasks, from meeting room setups to administrative duties, are completed accurately and efficiently.

• Takes initiative in managing front desk operations and maintaining a welcoming environment.

• Approaches all interactions with a positive, can-do attitude and remains calm under pressure.

• Able to adjust to changing priorities and handle a variety of tasks.

Reward and development:

Buckles recognise the success of every employee; working with you to ensure you have what you need to maximise your potential and develop your career.

Alongside a host of development, professionally and personally, we offer some fantastic benefits, which include (but not limited to):

• Enhanced annual leave + all UK Bank Holidays.

• An additional day for your birthday each year (or closest working day to your birthday).

• Additional annual leave on Christmas Eve (1 full day) and New Years Eve (half day PM) if these days fall on a normal working day.

• Private healthcare options for you and your family – via Bupa.

• Free healthcare cash back plans for you and your family.

• Enhanced pension – 5% matched contribution by Buckles.

• Ability to buy additional holiday – up to 5 days per year.

• Group Life Assurance – 4 x your annual salary.

To apply:

Please submit a CV that demonstrates the skills and experience you have that is suitable for this role.

We are an equal opportunity and disability-inclusive employer and value diversity across the firm. We do not discriminate based on age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation or parental or caring status.