At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver world-class customer service and support administrative operations at Kew Wakehurst.
- Company: Join the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and discounts on gyms and museums.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission to protect plants and fungi for future generations.
- Qualifications: Experience in customer service and strong administrative skills required.
Customer care is a vital component for the success of RBG Kew. Offering a 7-day service to a diverse audience encompassing day visitors, event ticket holders and a pool of over 100,000 members, customer service is central to what we do and Kew’s mission and values.
Reporting to the Customer Care Team Leader, the Customer Support Assistant plays a key role in delivering a world-class customer experience across multiple touchpoints. You will act as a vital link between Kew Wakehurst, Kew and its visitors, helping to build and maintain positive, long-term relationships, particularly with returning visitors and members.
This part-time role primarily involves handling telephone and email enquiries through a CRM system, alongside supporting day-to-day administrative operations within a busy office environment at Kew Wakehurst.
Applicants should demonstrate excellent customer service and administrative skills with experience dealing with a variety of customers and topics. This part-time role (21.6 hours) includes a shift pattern across 7 days a week and work hours are typically between 9am and 5:15pm, although additional paid hours outside of this may be required depending on seasonal events needing support.
Previous experience in a customer service/customer-facing role is essential. Experience with ticketing systems, membership services, or financial processes would be advantageous. We are looking for candidates with the ability to prioritise effectively, maintain confidence in a dynamic environment, and remain proactive and solutions focused. A high level of attention to detail and accuracy in data entry is crucial, as the role involves working across multiple systems daily. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and the ability to quickly learn new systems and processes would be a plus.
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth.
We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.
Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi.
The salary for this position is£29,692 per annum [Band B]
- opportunities for continuous learning
- a generous annual leave entitlement
- flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance
- an Employee Assistance Programme
- other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership
- a competitive pension
- an employee discount scheme
- free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries
- access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst
At Kew, our strength lies in the diversity of our people and the insights they bring. When you join us, you will find an organisation that values your perspective and lived experience. You will receive support to achieve your full potential and access opportunities to develop and progress. Our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion is ongoing, shaped by the people who work here and the communities we serve. As a disability confident employer, we are breaking down barriers to be an inclusive workplace for everyone.
Whoever you are, and however you experience the world, there is a place for you to grow and belong at Kew.
No agencies please.
Customer Support Assistant (Wakehurst) in East Grinstead employer: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, perfect for those passionate about digital product development. With a focus on employee growth and a competitive benefits package, you will have the opportunity to lead a talented team in creating impactful digital services that enhance user experience while contributing to Kew's ambitious Digital Strategy. Located in a world-renowned botanical garden, this role offers a unique environment where your work can truly make a difference.
Contact Details:
Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Customer Support Assistant (Wakehurst) in East Grinstead
✨Connect with the Community
Get involved in customer support communities online! Platforms like Reddit and specific Facebook groups can be goldmines for sharing opportunities and tips. You can find out about part-time roles that might not even be advertised yet — it's all about who you know!
✨Attend Local Job Fairs
Job fairs are perfect for snagging part-time gigs! Keep an eye out for local hiring events and career expos in your area. It’s a brilliant chance to meet representatives from companies like Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and show off your personality in person.
✨Boost Your Visibility
Showcase your skills in online customer support forums or by offering help on platforms like Zendesk Community. A strong online presence can catch the eyes of recruiters and hiring managers looking for genuinely passionate candidates.
✨Apply Directly Through Us!
Don’t forget, applying through our website is one of the best ways to catch our attention. Tailor your application for the part-time customer support role at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and let us see your personality shine through!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Communication Skills:In customer support, communication is key! Make sure your CV and cover letter highlight your ability to clearly convey information and resolve issues. Use examples that illustrate how you've helped customers or colleagues in the past.
Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Abilities:Employers want to see how you tackle challenges. Include specific instances where you resolved a tough issue for a customer or improved a process. Real life scenarios are a great way to showcase your critical thinking and adaptability.
Tailor Your Application to Part-Time Work:Since this is a part-time role, be upfront about your availability in your cover letter. Highlight how you can balance work with your other commitments. It shows you're organised and committed to making the role work for both you and Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Get Familiar with Our Brand:Before applying, take some time to learn about Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and our approach to customer support. Mention in your cover letter why you're excited about supporting our customers specifically. It’ll show your enthusiasm and that you've done your homework!
How to prepare for a job interview at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew
✨Show Off Your Communication Skills
In customer support, being able to communicate clearly and effectively is key. During the interview, make sure to demonstrate your listening skills and your ability to explain solutions simply. Use examples from past experiences where you resolved customer issues successfully.
✨Know the Tools of the Trade
Familiarise yourself with common customer support tools like ticketing systems (think Zendesk or Freshdesk) and chat software. If you’ve used any of these in previous roles or during your studies, be ready to chat about your experiences. Showing you can hit the ground running with these tools will impress Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
✨Highlight Your Flexibility
Since this is a part-time role, emphasise your ability to adapt to different shifts and your willingness to handle varying customer volumes. Share any experiences where you thrived in a fast-paced environment or juggled multiple tasks, which can highlight your time management skills.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Interviewers often love scenario-based questions in customer support roles. Be ready to tackle common customer situations, like how you'd handle an unhappy customer. Practising responses to these scenarios will showcase your problem-solving ability and customer service mindset, which Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew will surely appreciate.
