Switchboard Receptionist

Tate; Eastbourne; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment agency is seeking a Switchboard Operator / Virtual Receptionist to join their team. The role involves handling incoming calls, managing enquiries, and can be based either in Swindon, Eastbourne, or be fully remote. Strong communication skills and the ability to multitask effectively are essential. This is a permanent position offering a salary between £23,000 and £25,000, depending on experience.

Qualifications

• Experience in a similar role.
• Strong communication skills.
• Ability to work independently or as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Answer incoming calls promptly and professionally.
• Manage caller expectations using initiative and discretion.
• Direct enquiries to the correct fee earners or departments.

Skills

Confident communicator with a professional telephone manner

Excellent interpersonal skills

Experience with Microsoft Office

Organised and proactive

Ability to multitask effectively

Job description

Overview

Job Title: Switchboard Operator / Virtual Receptionist
Location: Swindon, Eastbourne, or Fully Remote (UK-based)
Salary: £23,000 to £25,000 (depending on experience)
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pm (1 hour lunch)
Job Type: Permanent

About the Role

I am recruiting on behalf of a respected services client who is seeking a reliable and professional Switchboard Operator / Virtual Receptionist to join their managed service team.

This important role acts as the first point of contact for client\'s inbound calls and which involves high volume of incoming calls and managing enquiries efficiently. The position can be located in either the Swindon or Eastbourne office, and while ideally candidates will be near one of these offices, there is flexibility to work fully remotely for the right person.

Please note: Receptionist duties apply only if you are based in one of the offices (Swindon or Eastbourne). Remote candidates will primarily focus on the switchboard and call handling duties.

Key Responsibilities

Switchboard Operator duties (all candidates):

• Answer incoming calls promptly and professionally
• Manage caller expectations using initiative and discretion
• Direct enquiries to the correct fee earners or departments, taking detailed messages where required
• Record calls on the internal Case Management System when appropriate
• Forward incoming emails to the relevant teams
• Carry out ad-hoc administrative duties as needed

Receptionist duties (office-based candidates only):

• Greet visitors and direct them accordingly
• Manage incoming and outgoing post (date stamping, scanning, franking, courier arrangements)
• Maintain a tidy and welcoming front desk and reception area
• Assist with photocopying, scanning, and ordering office supplies including kitchen provisions
• Support general administrative tasks as required

What We're Looking For

• Confident communicator with a professional telephone manner
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to multitask effectively
• Experience with Microsoft Office and willingness to learn case management software
• Organised, proactive, and adaptable under pressure
• Reliable team player who can also work independently

We look forward to your application!

Please be aware this advert will remain open until the vacancy has been filled. Interviews will take place throughout this period, therefore we encourage you to apply early to avoid disappointment.

Tate is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

Tate is committed to promoting equal opportunities. To ensure that every candidate has the best experience with us, we encourage you to let us know if there are any adjustments we can make during the application or interview process. Your comfort and accessibility are our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Additionally, we value and respect your individuality, and we invite you to share your preferred pronouns in your application.