At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver exceptional customer service and create a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
- Company: Join The Donkey Sanctuary, a leading animal welfare organisation dedicated to improving donkey lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy 31 days holiday, life assurance, and health benefits including a 24/7 GP service.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for additional shifts during busy periods.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team making a real difference in animal welfare while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Experience in high-volume catering and excellent customer service skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 15 € per hour.
The Donkey Sanctuary is an international animal welfare organisation, offering care and protection to donkeys worldwide. Our vision is a world where every donkey has a good quality of life, and our mission is to improve the lives of donkeys every day. We will achieve this by transforming the lives of donkeys in need worldwide by fostering greater understanding, collaboration and support, and by promoting lasting, mutually life‑enhancing relationships.
We are heading into our busy season and are looking for friendly and proactive team players with a strong customer service ethic to join our team at our award‑winning restaurant, The Kitchen. As Front of House Assistant, you will ensure excellent customer service is delivered by giving a warm welcome to all visitors, engaging them in the charity at every opportunity and ensuring that service exceeds customers’ expectations at all times.
About you
- Experience of working front of house in a high-volume catering operation.
- Excellent customer service skills, including experience of dealing with enquiries and complaints from members of the public.
- Good organisational skills.
- Self‑motivated.
- Great interpersonal skills – able to establish, build and maintain successful relationships with staff, supporters and visitors.
About the role
- Serving food and beverages to customers, including barista coffee, to a consistently high standard.
- Delivering food and beverages to tables and clearing trays.
- Ensuring secure cash handling and efficient and accurate use of the till.
- Keeping the front of house and counter areas clean, cleaning and maintaining equipment and keeping records as required in compliance with food hygiene regulations.
- Assisting with putting away deliveries and ensuring stock rotation.
- Assisting with food preparation as required.
- Carrying out dishwashing duties to a high standard.
The role is based on site at our Sidmouth location, which is not easily accessible via public transport, so a current UK driving licence would be desirable. This role will not include evening working or split‑shifts.
What we offer in return
- This is a part‑time, permanent contract starting as soon as possible, working a guaranteed minimum of 12 hours per week across a 7-day rota.
- The working hours and pattern will be agreed between the line manager and post-holder, but flexibility will be required for weekend working.
- It is anticipated that additional hours will be available during busy periods.
- Life Assurance.
- 31 Days holiday (including Bank holidays), rising to 34 with each full year of service.
- Recorded Pilates classes.
- Long Service Awards.
- Healthshield Plan – including reimbursement of some medical expenses up to the specified limits per membership, offers, discounts and cashback on shopping, travel and entertainment from participating outlets and access to a 24/7 GP and counselling service.
- Free Parking.
- Subsidised restaurant and shop.
The Donkey Sanctuary is a Disability Confident Employer. The Donkey Sanctuary is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable people (children and adults), and expects all staff and volunteers to undertake this commitment. Applicants will be subject to safer recruitment processes, including an application for a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check where required for the post. The Donkey Sanctuary also participates in the Inter Agency Misconduct Disclosure Scheme and, for relevant posts, may request information from applicants’ previous employers about any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment, or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment. The Guaranteed interview scheme is only applicable to candidates who consider themselves to have a disability applying for roles based within the United Kingdom.
Front of House Assistant (2220) in Devon employer: The Donkey Sanctuary
The Donkey Sanctuary is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where employees can thrive while making a meaningful impact on animal welfare. With generous benefits such as 31 days of holiday, health plans, and opportunities for personal growth, our team members enjoy a fulfilling career in a unique setting that fosters collaboration and community engagement. Located in beautiful Sidmouth, our award-winning restaurant, The Kitchen, provides a vibrant atmosphere for those passionate about customer service and animal care.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Front of House Assistant (2220) in Devon
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Before your interview, dive into The Donkey Sanctuary's mission and values. This will help you connect with the team and show that you're genuinely interested in their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills! Think of examples from your past experiences where you went above and beyond for a customer. Be ready to share these stories during your interview to demonstrate your proactive approach.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your teamwork spirit! The role is all about collaboration, so be prepared to discuss how you've successfully worked with others in high-pressure situations. Highlight your interpersonal skills and how you build relationships.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows that you’re tech-savvy and comfortable with online processes, which is a bonus in today’s job market.
We think you need these skills to ace Front of House Assistant (2220) in Devon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Personality:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for working with us at The Donkey Sanctuary and your passion for customer service.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight any relevant experience you have in front of house roles or customer service. We love seeing how your past experiences can contribute to our mission of improving the lives of donkeys and providing excellent service at The Kitchen.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Use bullet points if it helps, and make sure to answer any specific questions in the job description directly!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at The Donkey Sanctuary. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Donkey Sanctuary
✨Know the Mission
Before your interview, take some time to understand The Donkey Sanctuary's mission and values. Familiarise yourself with their work in animal welfare and how they aim to improve the lives of donkeys. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your answers with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
As a Front of House Assistant, excellent customer service is key. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully handled enquiries or complaints. Highlight your ability to engage with visitors warmly and proactively, as this is crucial for creating a welcoming atmosphere.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
The role requires a friendly team player, so be ready to discuss how you work well with others. Share specific instances where you collaborated with colleagues to enhance customer experience or resolve issues. This will illustrate your interpersonal skills and commitment to teamwork.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your organisational skills and ability to handle a busy environment. Think about how you manage tasks like serving food, handling cash, and maintaining cleanliness under pressure. Practising these scenarios can help you respond confidently during the interview.
