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- Tasks: Be the friendly first point of contact for patients and staff at Colchester Hospital.
- Company: Join Sodexo, a global leader in improving Quality of Life services.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, mental health resources, and discounts on high street brands.
- Why this job: Make a real difference every day in a supportive and dynamic team environment.
- Qualifications: Good education and customer-facing experience; Health & Safety Passport preferred.
- Other info: Opportunities for learning, development, and community involvement await you!
Job Description
Healthy outcomes start with positive patient experiences.
- 15 Hours per week / 06:00-14:00 & 11:00-19:00, Occasional 14:00-22:00 cover
- £12.51 per hour plus Sodexo Benefits
- Discounted parking permit
- Location is Colchester Hospital
Check your local transport links here: Plan Your Journey | Traveline – the destination you should input is: CO4 5LJ
Please take the time to read the attached job description
Job Introduction
Healthy outcomes begin with great patient experiences.
As an Helpdesk Operative at Sodexo, based in Colchester Hospital, you’ll play a key role in delivering a seamless and supportive experience for patients and visitors. You’ll be highly organised, an excellent communicator, and thrive in a dynamic healthcare environment. Our hospitals rely on skilled administrative professionals like you to keep things running smoothly behind the scenes. Join Sodexo and be part of something greater. You belong in a team where you can act with purpose and thrive in your way.
What you’ll do:
- Welcome patients and visitors with warmth and professionalism
- Handle incoming phone calls and direct them appropriately
- Manage email communication efficiently and accurately
- Prepare, format, and distribute reports
- Support HR-related tasks as needed
- Provide essential administrative assistance to the wider team
What you bring:
- Confidence using Microsoft Office and other basic IT systems
- A strong team spirit and excellent communication skills
- The ability to stay calm, focused, and organised under pressure
- Previous admin experience is preferred
What we offer:
Working at Sodexo isn’t just a job — it’s a chance to make a difference every day. You\’ll be part of a supportive team, act with purpose, and thrive in a role where your work matters. We also offer a range of benefits to support you and your loved ones:
- Mental health and wellbeing resources
- Employee Assistance Programme (including financial/legal advice & personal support)
- Free health & wellbeing app with 24/7 virtual GP access
- Discounts on high street brands for you and your family
- Salary finance tools and financial wellbeing resources
- Retirement savings plan and life insurance
- Full training and protective uniform provided.
- Opportunities to gain experience through learning and development.
- Cycle to Work scheme & volunteering opportunities.
- Flexible working and a dynamic team environment
- Competitive pay
Ready to be part of something greater? Apply now and bring your energy, purpose, and passion to Sodexo.
We may close this advert early if we receive a high number of applications — so don’t wait!
About Sodexo
At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better every day for everyone to build a better life for all. As the global leader in services that improve the Quality of Life, we operate in 55 countries, serving over 100 million consumers each day through our unique combination of On-Site Food and FM Services, Benefits & Rewards Services and Personal & Home Services.
We are committed tobeingan inclusive employer. We are a forces friendly employer.We welcome and encourage applications from people with a diverse variety of experiences, backgrounds, and identities.We encourage our employees to get involved with our Employee Networks such as Pride, Sodexo Parents & Carers, Sodexo Disability, Ability network, So Together, Generations and Origins.
We’re a Disability Confident Leader employer.We’re committed to changing attitudes towards disability, and making sure disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations.We run a Disability Confident interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria for the job.
Click hereto read more about what we do to promote an inclusive culture.
Sodexo Disability, Ability network, So Together, Generations and Origins.
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Helpdesk Operative employer: Sodexo Ltd
Contact Detail:
Sodexo Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Helpdesk Operative
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the healthcare environment, especially the specific operations of a hospital. Understanding how a helpdesk functions within this context will help you demonstrate your knowledge during any interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills, particularly in handling sensitive situations. Role-playing scenarios where you interact with distressed patients or visitors can prepare you for the real-life challenges of the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Get to know the local transport links to Colchester Hospital. Being able to discuss your commute and showing that you can arrive punctually will reflect your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight any previous experience in customer service or administrative roles during your conversations. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed enquiries or handled sensitive information.
We think you need these skills to ace Helpdesk Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Helpdesk Operative. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences that align with these duties.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV is up-to-date and clearly outlines your customer service and administrative experience. Use bullet points to make it easy to read, and include specific examples of how you've handled similar tasks in the past.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention your ability to communicate effectively with patients and staff, and provide examples of your organisational skills and adaptability in a busy environment.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sodexo Ltd
✨Show Your Customer Service Skills
As a Helpdesk Operative, you'll be the first point of contact for patients and visitors. Make sure to highlight your previous customer service experience and how you handle difficult situations with empathy and professionalism.
✨Demonstrate Organisational Abilities
This role requires a calm and organised approach. Be prepared to discuss how you manage multiple tasks efficiently, especially in a busy environment like a hospital. Use examples from past experiences to illustrate your organisational skills.
✨Familiarise Yourself with IT Systems
Comfort with IT systems is essential for this position. Brush up on any relevant software or tools you might encounter, and be ready to discuss your proficiency with technology during the interview.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle sensitive situations, such as dealing with distressed patients. Think of specific scenarios where you've successfully navigated similar challenges and be ready to share those stories.
