Corporate Services Assistant

The British Government is an inclusive and diversity-friendly employer. We value difference, promote equality and challenge discrimination, enhancing our organisational capability. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law. We promote family-friendly flexible working opportunities, where operational and security needs allow. The FCDO operates an agile workforce and to facilitate this, you may be required to undertake other duties from time to time, as we may reasonably require. Job Category Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (Operations and Corporate Services) Job Subcategory Finance, HR, Reception Job Description (Roles and Responsibilities) The British Embassy in Berne is part of a world-wide network representing British political, economic and consular interests. We are recruiting a Corporate Services Assistant who plays a key role in supporting the Embassy’s internal operations. The position involves managing payments, handling HR issues, maintaining inventories, and coordinating diplomatic mail and courier services. It requires strong organisational skills and attention to detail to ensure smooth day-to-day functioning. The role also supports the arrival and departure of UK diplomats and visitors, liaising with contractors and service providers. It includes practical tasks beyond desk work, such as supervising contractors and managing items like IT equipment and Permits. The assistant works closely with the Corporate Services Manager and engages with UK teams and regional hubs. Ideal candidates will have at least two years of administrative experience, fluency in English and excellent proficiency in IT. The position demands flexibility, initiative, and excellent interpersonal skills. It offers a daily role at 50-75% hours, contributing directly to the Embassy’s ability to deliver high-quality services. Main duties and responsibilities Act as a first point of contact for HR-related questions and staff management issues within the Embassy. Process local payments and purchases using credit cards, raise requisitions, file invoices and documents. Supporting the payroll team to ensure staff are paid on time. Support budget management, including forecasting, cash reporting and reconciliation. Provide support to Corporate Services team to organise the arrival and departure of UK diplomats and visitors, supervise contractors if required. Work with and support contract management of embassy services e.g. telecommunications, facilities management. Maintain inventories for items such as IT and facilities; coordinate diplomatic mail and courier services. Act from time to time on the security desk within their shift patterns. Essential qualifications, skills and experience Full professional proficiency in English (written and spoken, minimum of C1 level for CEFR or equivalent). Administrative Experience – Minimum of two years’ experience in administrative roles, demonstrating multitasking and attention to detail. HR skills – Generalist background in employee administration and providing essential guidance. IT Proficiency – Confident use of Copilot, Excel, Sharepoint and basic phone and IT support. Organisational Ability – Proven ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment. Teamwork and Collaboration – Ability to work well independently and as part of a team, supporting colleagues and contributing to shared goals. Basic Financial Literacy – Understanding of financial processes such as reconciliations, invoice handling, and petty cash management supports the role’s financial tasks. Delivering at Pace – Demonstrates efficiency and responsiveness in completing tasks to a high standard under time pressure. Desirable qualifications, skills and experience German at least B1 / B2 CEFR. Would be desirable but not mandatory. Procurement / P2P: Experience with Procurement or Vendor Management – Familiarity with sourcing quotations, managing suppliers, and handling purchase orders can be valuable given the purchasing responsibilities. Professional HR background with experience in handling HR cases and applying Swiss Employment Law. Driving License - clean record and willingness to drive as part of job duties. Required behaviours Delivering at Pace, Managing a Quality Service, Working Together Application deadline 26 November 2025 Grade Administrative Assistant (AA) Type of Position Permanent, Part-Time Working hours per week 30 Region Europe, Eastern Europe & Central Asia Country / Territory Switzerland Location (City) Berne Type of Post British Embassy Number of vacancies 1 Salary Currency CHF Salary 4,744 (gross) and pro rata based on workload percentage (e.g. at 75%) Type of Salary monthly Start Date 5 January 2026 Other benefits and conditions of employment This is a part-time and permanent contract of 30 hours per week inclusive of four compulsory 45-minute lunch breaks. There is a 3-month probationary period, during which either party may bring the agreement to an end, in writing with 7 days’ notice. Embassy opening hours are 0730 – 1830 hrs (Monday – Thursday) and 0730 – 1330 hrs (Friday). Gross monthly salary is CHF 4,744 (pro rata). The annual leave entitlement is 25 days per year (pro rata), increasing to 30 days over 5 years, and the Embassy also enjoys 13 Swiss / UK public holidays per year. Salary is pro rata based on workload percentage (e.g. CHF 4,744 at 75%, adjusted accordingly for 50–75%). The successful candidate will be subject to professional background and security clearances before a contract is offered. FCDO is committed to continual learning and development. The Embassy will provide funding in line with L&D requirements and a variety of learning and development is provided throughout the year both directly at post and virtually through the FCDO International Academy. There will be opportunities to attend training, lectures etc. on the job. Visa / work permit requirements : The successful candidate must have pre-existing work authorisation for Switzerland in order to apply. All applicants should have the right to live and work in Switzerland. Equal employment We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, colour, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability or gender identity. We particularly encourage applications from candidates with protected characteristics. FCDO want to maximise the potential of everyone who chooses to work for us, regardless of their background. #J-18808-Ljbffr