Receptionist (Fixed Term Contract – 12 months) in Durham

Do you want to be part of a successful family-owned North East business that has been helping to meet the changing needs of UK society since 1976? This role is working for one of the UK’s leading independently owned developers operating in mining, property and housebuilding. We are looking for a front of house receptionist for a fixed term period of 12 months, maternity cover, based at our Head Office in Meadowfield, Durham in the North East of England.

Overall Objectives: In your role you will be responsible for providing an efficient and professional reception and administrative support service with a strong focus on customer service to assist in the achievement of business objectives. You will take overall responsibility for the smooth running of the Banks Group Head Office reception function, including all associated duties, to ensure the Company’s image is promoted at all times.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Responsible for reception and associated duties, ensuring reception area is maintained to a high standard and always promote a professional image at all times.
• Receiving, sorting and logging of incoming and outgoing mail daily.
• Maintain a safe and clean reception area, including business lounge, meeting rooms and kitchenette.
• Ensure company literature is accurate/up to date and adequately displayed in the visitor’s lounge.
• Manage bookings for internal and external meetings.
• Deal with telephone calls/visitors and enquiries in an efficient and professional manner.
• Ensure telephone system is maintained and operated, liaising with the IT department as appropriate.
• Accurately maintain and update the Company website with internal and external press releases as required.
• Deal with all stationery ordering in a timely manner, making costs savings where possible.
• Deal with all hotel and travel bookings in a timely manner, making costs savings where possible for the Group.
• Liaise with Chairman’s PA to support the annual process of Christmas card and calendar orders for the Group.
• Ensure high standards of document control in line with the Company’s procedures.
• The above list is not exhaustive, and there will be a reasonable requirement for you to assist your fellow secretarial teams as well as other professionals, as and when required.

Qualifications, Knowledge & Experience:

• ESSENTIAL: Previous experience in a receptionist role.
• Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Office packages, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and Teams.
• Excellent communication skills both verbal and written.
• Ability to multitask, hitting key deadlines as required.
• Possess high attention to detail.

• DESIRABLE: Computer literacy.
• Experience of auditing procedures.
• Experience of working in a fast-paced and project-centric environment with multiple priorities.
• Experience of effective note / minute taking.

Personal Qualities / Competencies:

• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with absolute discretion.
• Professionalism and ability to interact effectively with a variety of internal and external stakeholders.
• Well organised, efficient and meticulous.
• Ability to handle conflicting priorities and work calmly under heavy workload pressure.
• A proactive and positive can-do attitude.
• A self-starter, with the willingness to continually develop professional skills.
• Resilient to change.
• Flexible & responsive.
• Comfortable with regular travel, sometimes at short notice.

Employee Benefits:

• Competitive Salary: Enjoy a competitive salary.
• Generous Leave: Benefit from generous annual leave plus public holidays to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Pension Scheme: Secure your future with our company pension plan.
• Parental Leave: Access enhanced maternity, paternity, and adoption leave to support your growing family.
• Wellbeing Support: Utilise our Employee Assistance Programme, health and wellbeing discounts, and the support of qualified health advocates and Mental Health First Aiders.
• Sustainable Initiatives: Participate in our Electric Vehicle salary sacrifice scheme, Cycle2Work scheme, and enjoy discounts through our e-voucher program with major retailers.
• Financial Security: Benefit from generous life assurance coverage for peace of mind.

How to Apply: Using the form below, or send your CV and covering letter detailing your relevant experience to: Don’t delay and apply today!! No recruitment agencies inquiries please.