Visitor Services Assistant (2207) in Devon
Visitor Services Assistant (2207)

Visitor Services Assistant (2207) in Devon

Devon Full-Time 12 - 14 £ / hour (est.) No home office possible
The Donkey Sanctuary

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Welcome visitors, provide information, and promote our donkey welfare initiatives.
  • Company: Join The Donkey Sanctuary, a global leader in animal welfare.
  • Benefits: Flexible hours, 31 days holiday, wellbeing support, and free parking.
  • Other info: Opportunity for personal growth in a supportive and dynamic environment.
  • Why this job: Make a difference for donkeys while engaging with visitors in a beautiful setting.
  • Qualifications: Customer service experience, strong communication skills, and basic IT knowledge.

The predicted salary is between 12 - 14 £ 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 have an excellent opportunity for proactive and flexible team players with outstanding interpersonal skills to join our Commercial and Onsite Activities department for the summer months as Visitor Services Assistant. The Visitor Engagement team is the first point of contact for visitors, providing a warm welcome, offering help, advice and information on all aspects of the Charity. Whether enjoying the new interpretation centre, exploring the wider sanctuary or finding out about our extensive worldwide work, you will be on hand to help visitors explore and discover everything we have to offer.

About you

  • Excellent customer service skills; which includes experience of dealing with enquiries and complaints from supporters/members of the public.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to interact with visitors of all ages and backgrounds.
  • Basic I.T. skills (proficient in Word, Outlook and Excel).
  • Knowledge and genuine interest in the work of The Donkey Sanctuary.
  • Full, valid UK Driving Licence.

About the role

  • Providing a warm friendly welcome, help and advice across all Visitor Engagement points, namely the Welcome Area.
  • Ensuring that excellent customer service is a main priority, giving a warm welcome to all visitors and proactively engaging them in the charity at every opportunity.
  • Informing visitors about the donkeys, advising visitors of the work of the charity, answering queries and advising on the new visitor facilities.
  • Ensuring the Visitor Centre is well stocked with literature.
  • Responding to face‑to‑face complaints and feedback, taking prompt and appropriate action to resolve any issues.
  • Proactively promoting adopt‑a‑donkey to members of the public.
  • Answering emails and telephone enquiries, booking visits, and entering new supporter information onto the database as required.

What we offer in return

  • Based in Sidmouth, East Devon – an area of outstanding natural beauty.
  • These are variable hours, fixed term contracts starting on 1 July 2026 until 30 September 2026, working an average of 28 hours per week, five days over seven. Flexibility will be required for weekend working.
  • Life assurance.
  • 31 Days holiday (including Bank holidays), rising to 34 with each full year of service.
  • Wellbeing team.
  • Recorded Pilates and Yoga 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.

Closing date for completed applications: Sunday 10 May 2026.

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.

Visitor Services Assistant (2207) in Devon employer: The Donkey Sanctuary

The Donkey Sanctuary is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work in a beautiful location in Sidmouth, East Devon, while making a meaningful impact on animal welfare. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, including access to health plans, yoga classes, and generous holiday allowances, we foster a supportive and inclusive work culture that encourages personal and professional growth. Join us this summer as a Visitor Services Assistant and be part of a dedicated team that welcomes visitors and promotes the vital work we do for donkeys worldwide.
The Donkey Sanctuary

Contact Detail:

The Donkey Sanctuary Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Visitor Services Assistant (2207) in Devon

✨Tip Number 1

Get to know The Donkey Sanctuary inside out! Familiarise yourself with their mission and values, and be ready to chat 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 during interviews.

✨Tip Number 2

Practice your customer service skills! Think of scenarios where you might need to handle enquiries or complaints. Role-playing these situations with a friend can help you feel more confident and prepared for real-life interactions with visitors.

✨Tip Number 3

Don’t underestimate the power of a warm smile and positive attitude! When you’re engaging with visitors, remember that first impressions matter. Show enthusiasm and be proactive in helping them have a great experience at the sanctuary.

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy and comfortable with basic IT skills, which is a must for this role. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!

We think you need these skills to ace Visitor Services Assistant (2207) in Devon

Customer Service Skills
Interpersonal Skills
Communication Skills
Basic IT Skills
Proficiency in Word
Proficiency in Outlook
Proficiency in Excel
Problem-Solving Skills
Knowledge of Animal Welfare
Ability to Handle Complaints
Flexibility
Teamwork
Attention to Detail
Driving Licence

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Your Passion for Donkeys: When writing your application, let your love for donkeys shine through! Share any experiences or knowledge you have about animal welfare and how it aligns with our mission at The Donkey Sanctuary.

Highlight Your Customer Service Skills: We’re looking for team players with excellent interpersonal skills. Make sure to include examples of how you've provided outstanding customer service in the past, especially in dealing with enquiries and complaints.

Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts well so we can easily see why you’d be a great fit for the Visitor Services Assistant role.

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 this fantastic opportunity.

How to prepare for a job interview at The Donkey Sanctuary

✨Know Your Donkeys

Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge about The Donkey Sanctuary and its mission. Familiarise yourself with the work they do and the importance of donkey welfare. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you answer questions confidently.

✨Showcase Your Customer Service Skills

Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've provided excellent customer service. Think about how you handled enquiries or complaints effectively. Being able to demonstrate your interpersonal skills will be key in this role.

✨Practice Your Communication

Since you'll be interacting with visitors of all ages, practice clear and friendly communication. You might want to role-play common scenarios you could encounter, like answering questions about the sanctuary or promoting the adopt-a-donkey programme.

✨Be Ready for Flexibility

The role requires flexibility, especially with weekend working. Be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt to the needs of the sanctuary. Showing that you're a proactive team player will make a great impression.

Visitor Services Assistant (2207) in Devon
The Donkey Sanctuary
Location: Devon

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