Receptionist / FOH Administrator

Graham Consulting; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

A close-knit Christchurch-based social service organisation is seeking a Receptionist / Administrator to be the first point of contact for clients, visitors and staff, and to provide day-to-day front-of-house support. This role combines frontline reception with general administrative tasks in a busy team.

We value warmth, professionalism and resilience, plus a commitment to confidentiality and cultural responsiveness.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years' experience in reception, administration or customer service.
• Experience in mental health or frontline social services is an advantage.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with empathy and patience.
• Ability to stay calm under pressure and use de-escalation techniques.

Responsibilities

• Welcome clients, whānau and visitors in a warm, respectful manner.
• Manage phone calls, emails and walk-in enquiries professionally and confidentially.
• Provide a calm, supportive presence for people in distress or crisis.
• Coordinate appointments, bookings, calendars and filing systems.
• Support referrals and liaise with internal teams and external agencies.
• Assist with accurate data entry, reporting and general office administration.
• Maintain a safe, tidy and welcoming reception area.

Skills

Reception experience

Administration

Customer service

Mental health awareness

De-escalation skills

Microsoft Office

Confidentiality

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Join a close-knit, values-driven team doing genuinely meaningful work in the community

Enjoy a varied role covering frontline reception, client support and general administration

Bring your reception, administration or customer service experience to a purpose-driven organisation

Are you a warm, professional and resilient administrator who thrives in a role where your work truly makes a difference?

Our client is a well-established, Christchurch-based social service organisation providing support to people in the community facing housing insecurity and other complex needs. They are looking for a Receptionist / Administrator to be the first point of contact for clients, visitors and staff, and to provide day-to-day administrative support across a busy front-of-house team.

As our client works alongside people experiencing homelessness, housing insecurity and a range of complex health and wellbeing needs; therefore the right candidate will be someone who is able and committed to creating a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for clients, their whānau and staff.

Key Responsibilities

• Welcome clients, whānau and visitors in a warm, respectful and welcoming manner
• Manage phone calls, emails and walk-in enquiries professionally and confidentially
• Provide a calm, supportive presence for people who may be experiencing distress or crisis
• Coordinate appointments, bookings, calendars and filing systems
• Support referrals and liaise professionally with internal teams and external agencies
• Assist with accurate data entry, reporting and general office administration
• Maintain a safe, tidy and welcoming reception area

Skills & Experience

• At least 5 years' experience in reception, administration or customer service
• Previous experience in mental health, addiction support or frontline social services is an advantage
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with strong empathy and patience
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and use de-escalation skills when needed
• Strong organisational skills and confidence using Microsoft Office
• A genuine commitment to confidentiality, professional boundaries and cultural responsiveness
• First Aid certificate, or willingness to obtain one

Why Join?

• Play a key role in a supportive, purpose-driven team
• Make a genuine difference in your local community
• Enjoy a varied role that combines administration with meaningful client contact
• Access to ongoing training and professional development