West Dean College jobs

Student Welcome Officer

West Dean, Sussex | Permanent | 24.38 Hours per Week

Be the Heart of the Student Experience at West Dean

Are you a people person who loves creating exceptional first impressions? Do you thrive in a customer-focused environment where no two days are the same?

West Dean is looking for a friendly, professional, and organised Student Welcome Officer to join our Campus Services team at our stunning Sussex campus, nestled within the South Downs National Park.

As the first point of contact for students, tutors, conference delegates, and visitors, you'll play a vital role in creating a warm, welcoming, and supportive experience for everyone who visits West Dean. From greeting guests and answering enquiries to coordinating arrivals and supporting campus operations, you'll be at the centre of our vibrant community.

About West Dean

West Dean is a unique destination where creativity, heritage, education, and hospitality come together. Our internationally renowned College offers specialist education in arts, design, craft, and conservation, while our award-winning gardens, historic buildings, and beautiful estate attract visitors from across the world.

Joining West Dean means becoming part of an inspiring community dedicated to excellence, creativity, sustainability, and outstanding visitor experiences.

The Role

As a Student Welcome Officer, you will:

• Welcome and register students, tutors, conference delegates, and visitors
• Manage enquiries in person, by telephone, and via email
• Coordinate room allocations, visitor information, transport arrangements, and taxi bookings
• Support students and guests with requests and resolve issues professionally
• Process payments and maintain accurate records
• Liaise with departments across the estate, including Housekeeping, Food Services, and Academic teams
• Maintain a safe and secure environment, supporting fire safety and emergency procedures
• Help ensure our reception and welcome areas reflect the high standards of West Dean

What We're Looking For

We're seeking someone who is:

• Friendly, approachable, and professional
• Passionate about delivering outstanding customer service
• Calm and confident in busy environments
• An excellent communicator with a positive telephone manner
• Organised and capable of working independently
• Comfortable using Microsoft Office 365 and administrative systems
• A collaborative team player

Desirable Experience

• Customer service
• Hospitality
• Education environments
• Visitor attractions or heritage settings

Hours & Working Pattern

This role operates on a two-week shift pattern, including weekends and bank holidays.

Average Hours: 24.38 per week

Week 1

Monday: 8:00am – 2:00pm
Saturday: 8:00am – 2:00pm
Sunday: 8:00am – 8:15pm

Week 2

Monday: 2:00pm – 8:15pm
Thursday: 8:00am – 8:00pm
Friday: 2:00pm – 8:15pm

Salary & Benefits

Salary: £16,417 per annum (FTE £23,569)

We offer an excellent benefits package, including:

• Generous contributory pension scheme
• Life Assurance
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Mental Health First Aiders
• Free and discounted short courses
• Free entry to West Dean Gardens
• Discounts on accommodation, food, and beverages
• Complimentary hot drinks and biscuits
• Free on-site parking
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Free meals on 12-hour shifts
• Paid breaks

Why Join Us?

This is more than a reception role. It's an opportunity to become an essential part of a creative and inspiring institution where every interaction contributes to an exceptional student and visitor experience.

If you enjoy meeting people, solving problems, and making others feel welcome, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply Today

Join West Dean and help create memorable experiences in one of the UK's most distinctive educational and cultural environments.

West Dean is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates.