Team Secretary/Receptionist

Simmons Gainsford, part of the Sumer Group; Uckfield; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Simmons Gainsford (part of Sumer Group) seeks a capable Administration Assistant to join our Uckfield office. This varied role combines front-of-house duties with broader PA support to ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the office.

You will provide reception cover, manage the switchboard, and assist with client invoicing, document handling and general admin tasks in a client-facing environment. The role suits someone highly organised and adaptable who enjoys a professional setting.

Qualifications

• Front-of-house experience or reception duties in a professional services environment.
• Strong organisation and communication skills with the ability to multitask.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and standard office software.

Responsibilities

• Provide reception cover and greet clients in a professional manner.
• Operate the switchboard, manage calls and diary appointments.
• Support with PA duties, office logistics and general administration.

Skills

Reception

Diary management

Microsoft Office

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Tools

CCH

CoAct

Job description

Description

Simmons Gainsford (part of Sumer Group) is a well-established and leading firm of Chartered Accountants & Business Advisors, known for delivering high-quality, partner-led services to entrepreneurial businesses, owner-managed companies and private individuals. With a strong reputation for technical excellence and a personable, client-focussed approach, the firm offers a supportive and professional working environment.

Department:

Administration

Location:

Uckfield

Description

Simmons Gainsford (part of Sumer Group) is a well-established and leading firm of Chartered Accountants & Business Advisors, known for delivering high-quality, partner-led services to entrepreneurial businesses, owner-managed companies and private individuals. With a strong reputation for technical excellence and a personable, client-focussed approach, the firm offers a supportive and professional working environment.

The role will be based in our Uckfield office and is a varied administrative position that combines front-of-house responsibilities with broader office and Personal Assistant (PA) support. The successful candidate will play a key role in ensuring the smooth day-to-day running of the office, providing reception cover when required while also supporting the Facilities & Business (FB) function and PA team. This position would suit someone who is highly organised, adaptable and enjoys working in a client-facing role alongside general administrative support.

Key Responsibilities

• Providing reception cover as required, including meeting, greeting and liaising with clients
• Operating the switchboard and managing incoming calls
• Diary management and scheduling meetings
• Booking meetings and preparing boardrooms
• Assisting with client invoicing and credit notes
• Drafting Letters of Engagement
• Supporting fire safety and health & safety procedures
• Ordering stationary and office equipment
• Preparing refreshments for meetings
• Printing, scanning, photocopying, filing and document binding
• Supporting ad hoc projects and administrative tasks
• Undertaking errands as reasonably required
• Providing general administrative support as needed

Please note: the above duties are not exhaustive and may vary as required

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

• High attention to detail, with the ability to adapt to a changing environment
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• Ability to multitask and manage competing priorities
• Strong IT skills, with an intermediate working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite
• Effective time management and prioritisation skills

Desirable

• Previous experience in a secretarial or administrative role within Professional Services
• Experience using relevant software packages such as CCH or CoAct

Belong @ Sumer

At Sumer, we know everyone's journey is different. That's why we're committed to fairness, removing barriers, and giving people the support they need to do their best work. If you need any support during the hiring process, just let us know.

Our values represent what matters most to us and guide how we work every day:

• We Shine Together
• We Do the Right Thing
• We Make It Count

We know diverse teams make us stronger. That's why we're creating an inclusive workplace where everyone belongs and differences are valued and celebrated.