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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Greet visitors, monitor security systems, and ensure a safe environment.
- Company: Join Sodexo, a company that values your individuality and purpose.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, mental health support, discounts, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Be the first line of defence in creating a secure and welcoming space.
- Qualifications: SIA licence, strong communication skills, and experience in security roles.
- Other info: Enjoy a supportive team culture with opportunities for personal growth.
Job Description
Join Sodexo as a Security Receptionist at Merville Barracks Colchester, CO2 7UT, where you will play a crucial role in creating a safe, professional, and welcoming environment for all staff, visitors and military personnel. As the first point of contact, you’ll combine excellent customer service with strong administrative and security awareness to ensure smooth and compliant entry to the site.
Please Note: Due to the festive period, applications will not be reviewed or shortlisted until 5 January 2026.
What you’ll do
- Welcome, engage with and support all visitors, checking entry documentation and ensuring compliance with MoD entry criteria.
- Provide first-class customer service and maintain a professional, well-kept reception area that creates a positive first impression.
- Operate reception systems, process site passes, and maintain accurate manual and digital records in line with service standards.
- Monitor access control systems, respond to incidents in line with procedures, and follow correct reporting processes at all times.
- Manage incoming queries, relay messages, and provide clear guidance to visitors, contractors, staff and stakeholders.
- Ensure compliance with GDPR, Sodexo policies, client site rules, and relevant legislation.
- Maintain the highest standards of personal presentation and wear the provided uniform at all times.
- Support additional administrative or office tasks as required.
What you bring
- Ability to interact with employees, contractors, consultants, visitors, and management as well as local police and fire authorities
- Standard SIA license
- Ability to provide a continuous 5-year UK employment and residency history.
- Previous experience in a customer-facing role.
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Excellent attention to detail and ability to follow set standards.
- Good IT skills and confidence using digital systems.
- Ability to work independently and within a team.
- Resilience when dealing with conflict, aligned with SIA-based training.
- Working knowledge of GDPR.
- Flexible, proactive and professional approach.
Desirable
- Experience within a military or security environment.
- Security Clearance (SC).
- Full UK Driving Licence.
Please Note: Due to the festive period, applications will not be reviewed or shortlisted until 5 January 2026.
What we offer
Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater. You’ll belong in a company and team that values you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way. In addition, we offer:
- Mental health & wellbeing support
- Employee Assistance Programme for personal, legal, and financial advice
- 24/7 virtual GP & lifestyle rewards
- Discounts for you & family
- Financial tools & retirement plan
- Cycle to Work & Paid volunteering day
Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today!
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Security Receptionist employer: Sodexo Ltd
Contact Detail:
Sodexo Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Security Receptionist
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the security industry, especially those who work at Merville Barracks or similar places. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your communication skills. As a Security Receptionist, you'll need to interact with various people, so practice how you’d greet visitors and handle different scenarios. Role-playing with a friend can help!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your SIA licence! Make sure to highlight your qualifications during interviews. It’s a key requirement for this role, so don’t be shy about mentioning it and any relevant experience you have.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it super easy for you to submit your application directly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Sodexo. Don’t miss out on being part of something greater!
We think you need these skills to ace Security Receptionist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially in security and customer service. We want to see how your skills match the role of a Security Receptionist, so don’t hold back!
Craft a Catchy Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for our team at Merville Barracks. Keep it friendly and professional, and let us know what excites you about this role.
Show Off Your Communication Skills: As a Security Receptionist, communication is key. In your application, give examples of how you've effectively interacted with visitors or handled tricky situations. We love to see those skills in action!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sodexo Ltd
✨Know Your Security Protocols
Familiarise yourself with common security protocols and procedures relevant to the role. Be prepared to discuss how you would handle various situations, such as visitor verification or responding to incidents, to show that you understand the importance of safety in a reception environment.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Security Receptionist, you'll need to interact with a variety of people. Practice clear and confident communication. During the interview, demonstrate your ability to convey information effectively and maintain a friendly yet professional demeanour.
✨Highlight Relevant Experience
If you've worked in similar roles before, be ready to share specific examples of your experience. Discuss any previous responsibilities related to monitoring security systems, managing visitor access, or providing customer service to illustrate your suitability for the position.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the company culture, team dynamics, or specific challenges faced by the security team. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
