Job Title: Receptionist – Head Office
Location: Planet Education Network (PEN) – Head Office
Salary: £28,000 per annum (pro-rata)
Employment Type: Part Time - On-Site - Maternity Cover (12 Months MAT)
About Planet Education Network (PEN)
Planet Education Network (PEN) is a dynamic and growing organisation dedicated to supporting the delivery of high-quality education. Our Head Office serves as the operational hub for internal teams, external stakeholders, and student-facing services. We are committed to maintaining a professional, welcoming environment that reflects our values of integrity, service, and excellence.
Role Overview
We are looking for a professional, organised, and approachable Receptionist to join our Head Office team. As the first point of contact for visitors, staff, and students, the Receptionist plays a key role in ensuring a smooth and efficient front-of-house operation. This position also involves light administrative duties, meeting room coordination, stock control, and general support to senior management.
Key Responsibilities
Reception & Visitor Management
- Greet all visitors, students, and staff in a courteous and professional manner.
- Manage incoming calls and emails, redirect queries as appropriate.
- Maintain a clean, organised, and welcoming reception area.
- Issue visitor passes and monitors access in line with security protocols.
Student Direction & Access
- Provide students with clear directions to their assigned university floor or department.
- Offer general guidance on finding the correct office, classroom, or course-related area.
- Ensure students sign in where required and have appropriate access.
Meeting Room & Office Coordination
- Manage bookings and setup of meeting rooms.
- Ensure rooms are clean, well-equipped, and ready for use.
- Assist with meeting logistics including refreshments and materials when needed.
Support to Senior Management
- Provide basic administrative support including document handling, scheduling assistance, and internal coordination.
- Maintain professionalism and discretion when handling sensitive information.
Stock & Supplies Management
- Monitor stock levels of office supplies, stationery, and refreshments.
- Keep accurate inventory records and manage replenishments efficiently.
General Administrative Support
- Perform routine administrative duties such as photocopying, scanning, filing, and data entry.
- Support internal communications and assist with organising office events or staff meetings.
- Coordinate courier services and incoming/outgoing mail.
Health, Safety & Office Compliance
- Ensure compliance with health and safety procedures in reception and shared spaces.
- Report any facilities issues or safety concerns to the appropriate department.
- Support emergency and evacuation protocols when necessary.
Candidate Requirements
Essential
- Previous experience in a receptionist minimum 1 year, administrative, or customer-facing role.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills with a professional and friendly approach.
- Highly organised with good time management and attention to detail.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook, Excel).
- Ability to handle multiple tasks efficiently in a fast-paced office environment.
- Professional appearance and attitude.
Desirable
- Experience in an educational or corporate setting.
- Familiarity with basic front-desk systems and visitor protocols.
What We Offer
- A professional and supportive working environment.
- A key role within a respected and growing organisation.
- Opportunities for growth and development.
Benefits
- Annual leave (7.2 weeks)
- Workplace pension scheme.
- Company Sick Policy.
- Statutory maternity/paternity pays.
- Career development opportunities
- Training and self-development opportunities.
- Gym membership discounts
- Retail discount schemes
- Cinema discounts
- Grocery discounts
- Cycle to work
- Investing and savings opportunities
- Financial wellbeing – personal debt advise.
- Financial wellbeing education
- My Mind Pal (mental fitness)