Receptionist

Excellerate; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 150 000 - 220 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading commercial real estate firm in South Africa seeks a Receptionist / Switchboard Operator to ensure a professional and welcoming front-of-house experience. The role requires managing visitor access, operating the switchboard, and coordinating meeting rooms, all while upholding high service standards. Ideal candidates will have Matric / Grade 12 and 2-3 years of reception experience in a corporate setting. This position offers a dynamic work environment and opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2-3 years of experience in reception/front-of-house or switchboard roles.
• Experience in a corporate environment, ideally in facilities management or client service.

Responsibilities

• Provide a professional front-of-house experience for visitors and clients.
• Operate the switchboard and manage incoming calls.
• Coordinate meeting room bookings and setups.
• Assist with general administrative tasks.

Skills

Professional verbal and written communication

Exceptional customer service

Strong telephone etiquette

Organizational skills

Ability to multitask

Education

Matric / Grade 12

Tools

MS Office

Digital booking systems

Job description

Who we are

We are the market leader in commercial real estate services and investments and provide an integrated suite of high-quality real estate services to our clients across Africa and the Middle East, including facilities management, advisory & transaction services, project management. We support predominantly corporate clients who buy services on a contracted basis all across the Middle East and Africa – even globally, depending on their portfolio.

Why choose us

Imagine more than just the future of work; with CBRE Excellerate, you can create it. As part of our global powerhouse, you'll find a culture that fosters an entrepreneurial mindset, where your best work is not just encouraged but celebrated. Collaborate with talented individuals, harness the support of unparalleled resources, and enjoy the journey as you grow both personally and professionally.

About the role

To provide professional, welcoming, and efficient front‑of‑house experience for all employees, clients, and visitors at the Santam Meeting Centre. The Receptionist / Switchboard Operator is responsible for operating the switchboard, managing visitor access, coordinating meeting rooms, and supporting daily front‑desk operations in alignment with CBRE Excellerate service standards and Santam’s brand expectations.

What you will bring

• Matric / Grade 12 (Essential).
• Reception, front‑of‑house, or switchboard experience (2‑3 years preferred).
• Experience working in a corporate environment, preferably within facilities management or a client‑focused service organization.
• Proficiency in MS Office and digital booking systems.
• Strong telephone etiquette and communication skills.

Skills required

• Professional verbal and written communication.
• Exceptional customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to multitask and manage competing priorities, high level of professionalism, confidentiality, and discretion.
• Strong organizational and administrative skills.
• Calm and composed under pressure.

Behavioral Attributes

• Client‑centric mindset aligned with Santam’s and CBRE Excellerate’s values.
• Punctual, reliable, and well‑presented.
• Positive attitude and teamwork spirit.
• Proactive, solution‑driven, and detail‑oriented. Advanced understanding of general maintenance procedures and techniques.

What you will be doing

Front of House & Reception Duties

• Serve as the first point of contact for all visitors, clients, and staff entering the Meeting Centre. Provide a courteous, professional, and efficient reception experience, ensuring Santam’s hospitality standards are upheld.
• Manage visitor registration, access cards, and security protocols.
• Maintain a neat, organised, and presentable reception area at all times.

Switchboard and Communication Management

• Operate the switchboard, answer incoming calls, and direct them promptly and accurately.
• Take and relay messages where required, ensuring timely follow‑up.
• Assist with general information queries from visitors, staff and internal teams.

Meeting Centre & Room Coordination

• Manage meeting room bookings, schedule, and setups.
• Coordinate with cleaning, catering, and technical support teams to ensure meeting rooms are prepared and maintained.
• Monitor meeting room usage and elevate any conflicts or issues to Facilities.

Client Service & Relationship Management

• Build positive relationships with employees and stakeholders.
• Ensure consistent delivery of CBRE Excellerate service excellence. Handle client requests professionally and elevate when necessary.

Administrative Support

• Assist with general administrative tasks such as printing, scanning, filing, and courier arrangements. Support Facilities Management with reporting, logs, and front‑of‑house documentation.
• Manage stationery and front‑office supplies.

Health and Safety, and Security

• Adhere to all site safety, security, and emergency procedures.
• Report hazards, incidents, or facility issues promptly. Support emergency response protocols (evacuations, visitor tracking, etc.).

CBRE Excellerate is committed to striving for diversity and equitable representation in our workforce. Preference may thus be given to suitably qualified candidates as identified in our employment equity plan. Persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.