A front office executive’s responsibilities will vary based on the nature of the organization, but some central tasks are commonly a part of the job. Our analysis of listings reveals the following as duties usually expected of a front office executive:

Welcome Customers

Front office executives greet everyone who enters. This action sets up a positive interaction that reflects well on the employer.

Provide Service

Known for their helpfulness and knowledge of the facility, front office executives direct people where to go. At a hotel, for example, this could involve checking people into the computer system, explaining particulars about the room and amenities, answering questions about food service or local transportation, and calling for assistance with luggage.

Answer Phones

In addition to serving on-site guests, front office executives take care of incoming calls. They provide basic information, such as hours of operation or directions to the place, and direct other inquiries to the appropriate staff member.

Help with Security

Because they are positioned in the area where people arrive and leave, front office executives are well-stationed to be “eyes and ears” at the facility. They keep tabs on who is coming and going and report anything suspicious. To aid with safety, front desk executives may be in charge of things such as issuing badges, checking IDs, signing guests in and out, and unlocking the bathroom.

General Office Upkeep

Front office executives may be called upon to perform routine clerical and administrative jobs, such as sorting mail, filing, entering data, and signing for packages.

Collecting Payment

At places such as hotels, front office execs may total bills for guests and process payment by running a credit card or verifying a check.

Promoting the Brand

As one of the company’s main ambassadors, front office executives try to build excitement and convey information. At a college admissions office, for instance, they may pass out welcome folders to students and their parents to look at while they wait for an interview. A front office executive at a resort may ask patrons if they are familiar with the organization’s reward program and explain how it operates. Before guests leave, front office execs may hand them cards to rate satisfaction or insist they take a complimentary company-logo pen.