At a Glance
- Tasks: Deliver exceptional customer service and serve food and drinks in a vibrant restaurant.
- Company: Join The Donkey Sanctuary, a leading animal welfare organisation making a difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, 31 days holiday, and a supportive wellbeing team.
- Other info: Flexible hours, casual contracts, and opportunities for personal growth await you.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team while helping donkeys and engaging with visitors.
- Qualifications: Experience in high-volume catering and strong customer service skills required.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 26000 £ per year.
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 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.
- Strong communication skills.
- 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.
What We Offer In Return
- These are casual fixed-term contracts starting as soon as possible until 30 September 2026, working 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.
- Please note: This role will not include evening working or split-shifts.
- This role is based on site at our Sidmouth location, which is not easily accessible via public transport, therefore a current UK driving licence would be desirable.
Benefits
- Competitive pension.
- Life Assurance.
- 31 days holiday (including Bank holidays), rising to 34 with each full year of service.
- Wellbeing Team.
- 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.
Front of House Assistant in Devon employer: The Donkey Sanctuary
Contact Detail:
The Donkey Sanctuary Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Front of House Assistant in Devon
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on The Donkey Sanctuary. Understand their mission and values, and think about how you can contribute to their vision of improving the lives of donkeys. This will show your genuine interest and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills! Since this role is all about delivering excellent service, think of examples from your past experiences where you’ve gone above and beyond for customers. Be ready to share these stories during your interview to demonstrate your strong customer service ethic.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! When you’re heading to the interview, make sure you look smart and presentable. First impressions matter, especially in a front-of-house role. A neat appearance shows that you take pride in your work and are ready to represent The Kitchen.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation for the opportunity and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Front of House Assistant in Devon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for the role and the mission of The Donkey Sanctuary.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. Mention any previous front of house roles or customer service experiences that align with what we're looking for in a Front of House Assistant.
Keep It Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use bullet points if it helps to make your skills and experiences stand out more clearly.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Donkey Sanctuary
✨Know the Organisation
Before your interview, take some time to research The Donkey Sanctuary. Understand their mission and values, especially their commitment to animal welfare. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills
As a Front of House Assistant, excellent customer service is key. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you’ve gone above and beyond for customers. Think about how you handled complaints or difficult situations, as this will demonstrate your ability to maintain a positive atmosphere.
✨Practice Common Interview Questions
Anticipate questions related to your experience in high-volume catering operations and your organisational skills. Practising answers to common interview questions can help you feel more confident and articulate during the actual interview.
✨Dress the Part
First impressions matter! Dress smartly and appropriately for the interview. Since you'll be working in a restaurant environment, aim for a polished yet comfortable look that reflects the friendly and professional atmosphere of The Kitchen.