Venue Host; Front of House

About the RSE

The Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) is Scotland’s National Academy. Through the expertise of our Fellowship and the work of our staff, we bring together knowledge, ideas, and people to help address the most important issues facing Scotland and the wider world.

Our Fellowship of over 1,800 individuals spans academia, business, public service, the arts, and civil society. Alongside this, the RSE delivers a wide-ranging programme of research support, policy advice, public engagement, and international collaboration.

We are a collaborative, purpose-driven organisation with a strong commitment to supporting our people and promoting a positive and inclusive working culture.

Our small team is about to become a wee bit bigger. You may spot several roles advertised across the RSE this summer. These opportunities reflect investment in our people and future priorities as we grow our ambition to make knowledge useful.

We are seeking a Venue Host to join our Venue team, providing a professional front-of-house and operational support service within a busy events and venue environment. You will be the first point of contact for RSE Fellows, colleagues, and visitors, welcoming guests, managing access, responding to telephone and in-person enquiries, and supporting the day-to-day delivery of meetings, room bookings and events.

As a designated key holder, you will help open and close the building, carry out security and safety checks, and act as a trained first aider and fire marshal (full training will be provided).

Working as part of a weekly rotation comprising early, mid and late shifts, normally between 8am and 7pm, occasionally providing evening and weekend event cover. You will also liaise with contractors, suppliers and service providers, reporting to the Head of Facilities and Venue.

You will bring:

• Experience of working in a customer-facing environment, such as reception, hospitality, or venue support
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills, with good verbal communication and the ability to engage confidently with a wide range of people
• Good organisational and problem-solving skills, and the ability to stay calm and respond appropriately during busy periods or emergencies
• Basic IT skills, including Microsoft Office, with a willingness to learn systems as the room booking system.
• A flexible approach, with the ability to work a rotating early, mid, and late shift pattern

Previous experience in a conference, events, or front-of-house environment is desirable, as is a working knowledge of venue or room booking systems, but a positive attitude and a willingness to learn are equally important.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a busy, varied front-of-house environment, enjoys working as part of a team, and takes pride in delivering a warm, professional welcome to everyone who visits the RSE.