SELWYN COLLEGE CAMBRIDGE

Porter

Job Description

Job title:

Porter

Department:

Porters’ Lodge

Reports to:

Deputy Head Porter

Contract:

Permanent, subject to six-months’ probation

Purpose of the role

Working as a team, Porters are responsible for the smooth and efficient running of the Porters’
Lodge.  This includes welcoming visitors and dealing with all enquiries efficiently, taking
responsibility for the safety and security of College premises, and as Fire Wardens, responding
to fire alarms and other emergencies.

Key duties and responsibilities

Safety and Security of College Students, Staff, Guests and Visitors:

•  Locking/unlocking College buildings.
•  Regular patrols of College grounds, car parks, and student accommodation.
•  Responding to fire alarms and other emergencies.
•  Monitoring the College’s CCTV surveillance cameras.
•
•  Weekly inspections of fire extinguishers.
•  To undertake ‘First Aid at Work’ training to become and remain a qualified College First

Issuing of and accounting for College keys.

Aider.

•  Recording incidents.
•  Ensuring the orderly behaviour of students within the College premises.
•  Monitoring dances, discos and parties on College premises.
•  To participate in fire drills.
•  Registration of student bicycles.
•  To be an ambassador for the College at all times.

Porter JD – December 2023

Reception Duties

•  Handling enquiries from Visitors, Conference Guests, Students, Fellows and members of

Staff in person, by telephone and e-mail.

•  Sorting and distributing in-coming and out-going mail, including distributing parcels and

handling Special Delivery mail.

•  Registering the arrival and departure of Students and Conference Guests using a

computerised booking system (full training will be given).

•  Liaising with the Head Housekeeper, Conference & Catering staff, Development Office staff
and the Accommodation Officer regarding the timely exchange of rooms’ information.

•  Handling Guest and Function room bookings.
•  Sale of College memorabilia, postcards and stamps.

This is not an exhaustive list, and other duties may be delegated by the Head Porter or her
Deputy.

These duties may change from time to time due to the needs of the College.  The post holder
will be notified in advance of any significant changes.

Where you fit in the structure:

Bursar

Senior Tutor

Operations
Manager

Head Porter

Night Porters

Porters

Relief Porters

Porter JD – December 2023

Catering & Events Administrator

Job Description

Job title:

Catering & Events Administrator

Department:

Conference & Events

Reports to:

Conference & Events Manager/Head of Catering

Working pattern:

Full-time, 37.5 hours per week

Contract:

Permanent, subjection to probationary period

Purpose of the role
To work with, and provide essential administration to the Conference & Events and Catering
teams. Supporting these departments to maximise sales and revenue from the College’s
commercial opportunities, whilst ensuring the core academic aims of the College are
maintained and supported.

Reporting to the Conference & Events Manager and Head of Catering, the role holder will be
based with the College’s Conference & Events team where full training will be provided for
some key duties, for example, the Mercury booking system.

The role provides a good foundation and is a good base to develop a career in Conferencing &
Events or Catering & Hospitality.

Key duties and responsibilities

The Catering & Events Administrator will work closely with both the Conference & Events and
Catering teams to ensure all day-to-day administration is completed within set timeframes.

•  Preparation of signage, seating plans, diet seating plans, diet tickets, wine cards, place

cards and meal tickets for all necessary functions.

•  Management of the online High Table booking system for College Fellows including

adding menus and wine, and taking bookings by phone and email. Ensuring numbers
and diets are shared with the catering team within agreed timeframes.

Catering & Events Administrator JD – August 2025

•  Management of the Formal Hall Booking system for students. Ensuring bookings are

live and numbers are shared with the Catering team in good time. Ensuring diet tickets
are printed on the day of each Formal Hall and that each booking is within the agreed
conditions from the College Dean.

•  Updating all student, Cafeteria, Fellows and external client menus and uploading

menus to online platforms where necessary.

•  Coordination and preparation of all menus for the servery, formal dinners, café bar and

events including allergy information.

•  Daily programming of the EPOS till system to reflect dishes and prices from the

cafeteria and updating of relevant spreadsheets.

•  Manage emails sent to the conference inbox from students, staff and fellows, ensuring

relevant information is passed on to appropriate members of the department.
Communicate relevant information from the Catering Department to the Conference &
Events team and other colleagues.

•  Work with the Conference & Events team’s Mercury booking system to ensure the Front
of House (FOH) and kitchen-based teams both have information on upcoming events in
good time.

•  Attend the daily functions meeting with the Catering and Conference & Events teams,

where all tasks for that day are discussed.

•  Ensure allergy folders for Fellows and students are up to date.

•  Photocopying, laminating, collection of post and ordering and maintaining par-levels of

stationary for the department.

•  Emailing maintenance requests for the department when required.

•  Perform any other tasks as reasonably requested by the Conference & Events Manager

or Head of Catering.

Catering & Events Administrator JD – August 2025

Requirements for the role

•  Good attention to detail.
•  Good communication skills both written and oral.  Must be able to communicate

effectively with a wide range of people.

•  A team player, able to work with colleagues across the College.
•  The ability to organise and manage a varied workload to meet deadlines.
•  A positive, friendly ‘can-do’ attitude.

Education, skills and experience

•  Good general education with passes in English and Maths at GCSE or equivalent
•  Excellent IT skills eg Word, Excel and Outlook. Training will be provided on Mercury

and the EPOS till system etc.

•  Previous experience working in a catering role would be advantageous but not

essential.

•  Previous experience and knowledge of food allergens would be advantageous but not

essential.

•  Previous administrative experience would be advantageous but not essential.

If you do not meet all the criteria, don’t be deterred from applying if you feel this role is for you. You
may have other relevant skills and experience which would prove valuable in this role.

Where you fit in the structure

Bursar

Operations
Manager

Head of Catering

Conference &
Events Manager

Deputy Conference
& Events Manager

Conference &
Events Coordinator

Conference &
Facilities & AV
Supervisor

Catering & Events
Administrator

Conference &
Events Assistant
Coordinator

Conference &
Events Facilities &
AV Assistant

Catering & Events Administrator JD – August 2025

Head Porter

Job Description

Job title:

Head Porter

Department:

Porters’ Lodge

Reports to:

Operations Manager; Senior Tutor (for student welfare matters)

Working pattern:

Full time, 37.5 hours per week

Contract:

Permanent, subject to probationary period

Purpose of the role

The Head Porter is responsible for the line management of the team of Porters and the day-to-
day running of the Porters’ Lodge. The Head Porter is also the College’s Fire Officer, working
with the Operations Manager and under the ultimate authority of the Bursar as the College
Health & Safety Officer.

Key responsibilities

Management & Administration

•  Manage the Deputy Head Porter and team of Porters (9.5 FTE, plus casual Relief

Porters). Ensure maximum efficiency and good morale, working with the Operations
Manager and HR team to ensure staff are suitably trained and appraised.

•  Manage the annual Porters’ Lodge budget.
•  Attend Heads of Department meetings, other relevant committee meetings within

College and, from time to time, meetings within the collegiate University. Attend the
termly cross-college Head Porters’ meeting.

•  Liaise with the Tutorial Office to coordinate logistical support for College examinations

by Porters.

•  Foster good working relationships with relevant public bodies (Police, Council, Fire

Services etc) and other colleges.

Security

•  Take responsibility for the security of the College and those who reside in it, under the

overall direction of the Operations Manager.

•  Manage security patrols by Porters, and ensure follow-up actions are reported to the

appropriate member of staff.

Head Porter Job Description – October 2025

•  Respond to breaches of security, monitoring and reviewing the College’s CCTV footage

and liaising with University Security and the Police as necessary.

•  Oversee the maintenance of accurate records, including incident reports, visitor logs etc.

ensuring confidentiality and compliance with data protection legislation.

•  Maintain an up-to-date directory of keys and access and secure custody protocols.

Complete regular departmental audits of keys held on and off site.

•  Manage and deliver a smooth, efficient and secure service for student overseas storage.
•  Control bike and car parking and the allocation of bike registration numbers/tags and

car parking permits. Make arrangements for identification and disposal of unregistered
bikes. Respond and take appropriate action to unauthorised vehicles on site.

Fire Safety

•  Ensure compliance with legal requirements in relation to fire safety including testing,
recording incidents, training and liaison with Fire Safety engineers. This includes:
o  Weekly tests of the College’s fire alarm systems, reporting any faults and

maintaining records.

o  Weekly inspections of fire extinguishers, replacing as appropriate and

maintaining records.

o  Periodic fire extinguisher training and refresher training for staff, maintaining

records thereof.

o  Systematic fire drills throughout the College and its hostels (Michaelmas and

Lent terms).

•  Maintain and develop the College’s fire risk assessments.
•  Respond to emergencies (fire alarms, medical incidents, etc.), ensuring safety protocols

are followed.

•  Take responsibility for maintenance of emergency response equipment, including but
not limited to: evacuation chairs; signage; wheelchairs. Take responsibility for clearing
and overseeing escape routes.

General Safety

•  Assume responsibility for health and safety in the Porters’ Lodge, and undertake all

health and safety training deemed necessary for the role.

•  Be a primary member of the College’s emergency management team under the

Emergency Response Plan.

•  Maintain a familiarity with and understanding of workplace health and safety

regulations and procedures, ensuring that appropriate risk assessments are drafted,
reviewed and followed.

•  Ensure pathways are inspected, with areas of concerns reported to the Head

Housekeeper.

•  Undertake first aid training to become a College First Aider.

Head Porter Job Description – October 2025

Student Welfare

•  Regularly liaise with the Senior Tutor in respect of student welfare.
•  Foster a friendly, compassionate and supportive culture within the Porters’ Lodge.
•  Ensure all members of the Porters’ team are able to work effectively as a point of contact
for students experiencing difficulties, signposting to and liaising with pastoral Tutors
and relevant welfare support staff within College. Ensure principles of confidentiality
and discretion are upheld at all times.

•  Under the direction of the Dean, hold responsibility for managing the orderly behaviour
of students within College, ensuring that social events on College premises comply with
fire and safety regulations and the quiet periods are adhered to.

•  Participate in ceremonial duties, including escorting students to the Senate House as

part of General Admission.

•  Be on duty and oversee safety and security for all major College occasions, including

but not limited to College balls, graduations and matriculation events.

•  Hold overall responsibility for the maintenance of appropriate records for the students’

Rediit Book, which measures students’ compliance with University residential
requirements.

Customer service

•  Ensure that the Porters’ Lodge, as a first point of contact with the College, offers a

welcoming and highly professional service to its users at all times.

•  Deliver an effective and welcoming front of house service for members and guests, with

tasks including but not limited to:

o  Overall responsibility for the booking of guest rooms, in the absence of the

Conference and Events team.

o  Oversight of the efficient registration of students and conference guests and
post-arrival service and support. Work as part of the Operations team to
productively and efficiently co-ordinate changes of room use for guests, students
and conference attendees.

o  Ensuring complaints/issues raised are responded to in a professional and

courteous manner at all times.

o  Oversight of the sale of stamps and College memorabilia through the Porters’

Lodge.

o  Management of in-coming and out-going mail, ensuring the secure storage and

distribution of mail and packages within the College.

o  Management of student and fellow pigeon holes.

This is not an exhaustive list of responsibilities. The post-holder will be expected to undertake any other
duties and responsibilities as may reasonably be requested by the Operations Manager, Bursar or Senior
Tutor. This job description may change from time to time, depending on the needs of the College and in
consultation with the post-holder.

Head Porter Job Description – October 2025

Requirements for the role

Criteria
SKILLS
Excellent administrative and organisational skills, with the ability to effectively
manage and prioritise own workload
Customer-service trained with an approachable and collaborative working style
Strong communication skills, both verbal and written
Proven ability to manage a team
Sound IT skills preferably Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel)
Proven ability to delegate responsibly
EXPERIENCE
Previous experience in a similar higher education environment
Previous experience managing a team in a security or safety focussed setting
Previous experience managing a team in a customer focussed setting
Evidence of knowledge and practical application of Health and Safety or Fire
Safety or First Aid
Previous experience of dealing with challenging situations
Ability to analyse information and give clear advice
EDUCATION
Educated to A’level standard or equivalent
Demonstrates continuous learning and development
First Aid qualification
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Well-presented, professional appearance
Good powers of persuasion to enable speedy conflict resolution
Ability to act calmly in pressurised situations
Good role model
Able to treat everyone with equal importance

Essential

Desirable

X

X

X

X
X

X

X
X
X
X

X
X
X

X

X

X
X
X
X
X

If you do not meet all the criteria, don’t be deterred from applying if you feel this role is for you. You may have
other relevant skills and experience which would prove valuable in this role.

Where you fit in the structure:

Bursar

Senior Tutor

Operations
Manager

Head Porter

Deputy Head
Porter

Night Porters

Porters

Relief Porters

Head Porter Job Description – October 2025

Night Porter

Job Description

Job title:

Night Porter

Department:

Porters’ Lodge

Reports to:

Deputy Head Porter

Contract:

Permanent

Purpose of the role

To work alongside the Duty Shift Porter from 21.00 until 05.00, engaging in all activities to
ensure the safety and security of College property and buildings, College members, staff, guests
and visitors. The Night Porter will report into the Deputy Head Porter and work with the team
to fulfil the objectives of the College’s Porter operations.

Key duties and responsibilities

•  Respond to all calls, emails and enquiries during the shift

•  Respond immediately to all fire alarms and emergency situations

•  Administer first aid as first responder

•  Record all incidents, accidents and emergencies before leaving the shift

•  Patrol College premises regularly throughout the shift

•  Lock and unlock College premises in a timely manner

•  To undertake ‘First Aid at Work’ training to become and remain a qualified College First

Aider.

•  Monitor and actively engage at all College bops, parties and functions

•  Ensure College members and guests behave in an orderly, responsible manner

•  Receive and welcome the arrival of students and guests using the Mercury rooms booking

system

Night Porter JD – November 2025

•  Administer the departure of students and guests using the Mercury rooms booking system

•  Sell College memorabilia, stamps and cards

•  Monitor CCTV cameras and deal appropriately with intruders and trespassers

•  Engage in College Fire drills as required

•  Undertake all aspects of administration for the Porters’ Lodge such as:

­  Photocopying, including restocking paper supplies

­  Re-stocking merchandise

­  Manage confidential waste and recycling

­  Update and review the Porters’ Lodge diary, calendar and clocks

­  Prepare all daily sheets before hand-over

­  Manage milk supplies

­  Sort and deliver newspapers

­  Collect and re-distribute College ‘A’ boards as required

­  Make ready the Porters’ Lodge for the day shift

•  Behave in a professional manner at all times and to represent the College as its

ambassador.

•  Undertake any other reasonable duties as may be required by the Deputy Head Porter.

These duties may change from time to time in consultation with the post holder, to reflect the needs of the
College.

Requirements for the role

Essential:

•  Customer-focused, with a friendly, helpful and efficient ‘can-do’ manner.

•  Ability to respond courteously, helpfully and efficiently to all face-to-face enquiries and

on the telephone.

•  Computer literate, with experience of using e-mail and MS Word.

•  Discretion at all times when dealing with matters of a personal or confidential nature.

Night Porter JD – November 2025

•  Ability to follow procedures and attention to detail.

•  Personable and enthusiastic.

•  Flexibility to work overtime to cover for absence and annual leave.

•  Ability to work without close supervision.

•  Reliable and dependable.

•  A smart and tidy appearance.

Desirable:

•  An awareness of health and safety at work.

•  Qualified first aider.

•  Previous experience in a security or fire safety role.

Where you fit in the structure:

Bursar

Senior Tutor

Operations
Manager

Head Porter

Deputy Head
Porter

Night Porters

Porters

Relief Porters

Night Porter JD – November 2025

Café/Bar Supervisor

Job Description

Job title:

Café/Bar Supervisor

Department:

Bar/Catering

Reports to:

Bar Manager

Working pattern:

37.5 hours per week to a schedule agreed with the Bar Manager

Contract:

Permanent, subject to six months’ probation

Purpose of the role

Assisting in the daily management of the College Café/Bar to provide the best possible
customer experience. When the Café/Bar is closed, assisting the Butler and Hall Supervisors in
maintaining a good food delivery service in the Servery and Hall. This will involve assisting
with the front of house and cafeteria operation to provide and maintain the smooth running of
the food and beverage service for all internal and external functions. Actively engage with
Fellows, students, guests, staff and visitors, exceeding expectations and ensuring all aspects of
service provided are effectively delivered.

The Café/Bar Supervisor will report to the Café/Bar Manager to fulfil our objectives.

Key duties and responsibilities as Café/Bar Supervisor

•  Proactively deliver a dynamic food and beverage offer to ensure that our drinks, food and

service exceeds our customers’ expectations.

•  Adhere to Café/Bar service standards, control processes and procedures and ensure they are

maintained at all times.

•  Assist the Manager to stay within annual budgets and maximise profitability by controlling

costs and maintaining department budgets.

•  Organise and run remote bars for external and corporate events.

Café/Bar Supervisor JD – November 2025

•  Provide a high level of customer satisfaction, maintaining a professional and efficient

manner to provide a positive impression of Selwyn College.

•  Monitor the storage, condition, quantity and report breakages of tableware, glassware,

equipment and assist with stock takes.

•  Requisition daily goods with the Stores Supervisor and Butlers to ensure stock levels and

displays are maintained.

•  Management of floats, handling cash and cashing up the tills at the end of each shift,

reconciling necessary paperwork.

•  Attend all in house training, self-appraise personal standards in all areas of the bar

highlight any training requirements (barista, hygiene, customer service) to line manager.

•  Adhere to staff rosters, provide cover for team members during absence and cover when
necessary, holidays, College, promotional events, seasonality and business levels.

•  Maintain specification sheets records for all areas, including event preparation, security

procedures and checklists for clearing up after events.

•  Ensure the College’s licensing hours are strictly adhered to.

•  Diffuse tense situations to prevent possible safety or legal issues, liaising with the Duty Porter

to eject unruly persons, if needed.

•  Ensure cash procedures are adhered to and strictly monitored, including preparation,

calculation of beverage bills and cashing up of tills.

•  Develop and maintain professional relationships with internal and external customers.

•  Annual Snowball, assist with supervising, setting up arrangements and smooth operations

throughout the event.

•  Be a point of contact in the Café/Bar manager’s absence.

•  Undertake any other reasonable duties as may be required by the Café/Bar Manager.

Health & Safety:

•  Maintain  high  standard  of  health  and  safety  and  hygiene  and  ensure  that  the  cellar  and

storage areas remain clean and tidy at all times.

•  Monitor and adhere to the College’s Food Safety policy, completing and recording hygiene

checks and audits.

Café/Bar Supervisor JD – November 2025

•  Ensure stock and equipment is correctly stored within HSE guidelines and adequate stock

levels are maintained. Report all failures immediately

•  Follow advised safe working practices when lifting and carrying.

•  Safe storage of gas cylinders prior to, during, and after use.

•  Safe disposal of general and recyclable waste.

•  Report safety hazards, maintenance issues, accidents, damage, or student incidents.

•  May be asked to undertake EFAW First Aider training (desirable, not mandatory).

Key duties and responsibilities when assisting the Butler and Hall Supervisors in the
Servery and Hall

•  Be presentable at all times, wearing the correct uniform, and maintaining a high standard of

appearance and personal hygiene.

•  Cafeteria  counter  service,  adhering  to  portion  control  levels  and  allergen  information,  as

directed.

•  Assist with the service of food and beverages to students, staff, Fellows and conference guests
in  the  Diamond,  College  Gardens,  Dining  Hall,  Formal  Halls,  Fellows’  Dinners,  Private
Dinners and in the Master’s Lodge.

•  Laying up tables for daily meals and College functions.
•  Clearing and cleaning tables after meals and College functions.
•  Daily cleaning of areas within the Cafeteria and Dining Hall.
•  Provide occasional cover for the Cashiers.
•  Undertake and assist in any other reasonable tasks as instructed by the Butler.

Criteria

•  Experience in a similar role is desirable
•  An understanding of what amazing guest service looks like
•  A great eye for detail
•  Excellent communication skills
•  A friendly and approachable character
•  A team player, who is willing to help others to ensure service is never compromised
•  Honest and reliable
•  A flexible attitude
•  Ability to work under instruction and in harmony with colleagues
•  A smart appearance

Café/Bar Supervisor JD – November 2025

Where you fit in the structure

Bursar

Operations
Manager

Head of Catering

Head Chef

College Butler

Café/Bar Manager

Stores Supervisor

Deputy Head Chef

Deputy Butler &
Cellar Manager

Café/Bar
Supervisor

Senior Chefs de
Partie

Hall Supervisors

Section Chefs

High Table Catering
Assistants

Catering Assistants

Kitchen Porters
(Front of House)

Junior Chef de
Partie

Commis Chefs

Kitchen Porters
(Plate Wash)

Café/Bar Supervisor JD – November 2025

Commis Chef

Job Description

Job title:

Commis Chef

Department:

Catering

Reports to:

Head Chef and Deputy Head Chef

Working pattern:

37.5 hours per week

Contract:

Permanent

Purpose of the role

To assist the Head Chef and Deputy Head Chef in consistently producing the highest possible
standard of food for our students, staff, Fellows and conference guests.

Key duties and responsibilities

Under the direction of the Head Chef and Deputy Head Chef, you will work with the Section
Chefs to provide consistently high quality food and introduce innovative dishes to enhance the
overall dining experience for our customers.

•  Prepare, cook and present consistently high quality food in the servery, at formal, high

table and for all other college conference activities

•  Maintain budgets and avoid wastage by ensuring food is not cooked too far in advance,

or that excessive amounts of food are produced.

•  Ensure all HACCP and food safety procedures are fully complied with.

•  Provide any necessary cover during periods of staff absence.

•  Assist in any other tasks as instructed by the Head Chef within the overall function of

the job.

Commis Chef JD – November 2025

•  Attend any identified training courses to enable the post holder to competently perform

the duties of the role. This will include health and safety training to minimise
occupational risks.

•  Provide accurate allergen information at all services

•  Liaise with Fellows, students, guests, staff and visitors at service areas in a polite and

professional manner

Person Specification

•  Hold or be working towards City & Guilds 706, NVQ Level 2, or equivalent award

•  A current basic food hygiene certificate

•  Creative flair, and a passion for food and presentation  Previous experience of working

in a busy restaurant

•  The ability to cater for a wide range of functions

•  Willing to undertake NVQ Level 3 Food Preparation & Cooking

•  Enthusiastic and willing to lean from training provided

•  Good organisational, time management and planning skills

•  Effective communication skills and a friendly disposition

•  Knowledge of food presentation and temperature control

•  Ability to work under pressure

•  Able to work under instruction and in harmony with colleagues

•  A positive ‘can do’ attitude, a willingness to help others and work additional hours to

provide cover for absent colleagues

•  Knowledge of the Food Hygiene (England) Regulations 2006, COSHH Regulations 1998

and the Health & Safety at Work Act 1974

If you do not meet all the criteria, don’t be deterred from applying if you feel this role is for
you. You may have other relevant skills and experience which would prove valuable in this
role.

Commis Chef JD – November 2025

Where you fit in the structure

Bursar

Operations
Manager

Head of Catering

Head Chef

College Butler

Café/Bar Manager

Stores Supervisor

Deputy Head Chef

Deputy Butler &
Cellar Manager

Café/Bar Supervisor

Senior Chefs de
Partie

Hall Supervisors

Section Chefs

High Table Catering
Assistants

Junior Chef de
Partie

Catering Assistants

Commis Chefs

Kitchen Porters
(Front of House)

Kitchen Porters
(Plate Wash)

Commis Chef JD – November 2025

Job Description

Deputy Head Porter

Job title:

Deputy Head Porter

Department:

Porters’ Lodge

Reports to:

Head Porter

Working pattern:

Full time 37.5 hours per week

Contract:

Permanent, subject to a probationary period

Purpose of the role

The Deputy Head Porter, together with the Head Porter, is responsible for the day to day
management of the Porters’ Lodge to ensure that a high quality, efficient and effective
service is provided to all students, staff, fellows and visitors. The post-holder trains and line
manages the team of Porters, Night Porters and Relief Porters. They assist the Head Porter in
all fire, security and safety matters and deputise for the Head Porter as required.

Key responsibilities

•  Supervise and monitor the work of the Porters to ensure they carry out all security,
administration and front of house duties to a high standard at all times, including:

o  Monitoring the efficient receipt, sorting and delivery of all internal and

external post.

o  Monitoring the reporting and recording of all incident and accidents

occurring in College.

o  Monitoring the general tidiness of the lodge, post room and print room.
o  Monitoring the issue of keys, ensuring accurate records are kept at all times.
o  Supervising staff when handling enquires from visitors, conference guests,

students, Fellows and staff in person, by telephone and email.

o  Ensuring adequate funds and consumables for the franking machine.

•  Line manage the porters, night porters and relief porters.

•  Ensure staff receive appropriate training and development, effectively delegate
work, manage performance, maintain absence records; conduct return to work
interviews, appraisals and regular progress reviews.

Deputy Head Porter JD – Dec 2025

•  Complete staff rosters to cover appropriate shifts as determined by the Head Porter,
responding to the flow of the academic year, conferences and other events where
shifts may require cover.

•  Assist the Head Porter to develop and implement long term plans and development

strategies.

•  Maintain and refresh the porters’ procedures database containing procedures and

performance standards for all tasks and shifts.

•  Supervise the allocation of pigeonholes to all appropriate students, Fellows and staff.

•  Develop a thorough working knowledge of the undergraduate, graduate and
Fellows accommodation guides and ensure the porters have access to and
understand the guides.

•  Undertake a key check audit at the end of each term, raising bills for losses and re-

order as necessary to ensure the College has sufficient numbers of spares.

•  Oversee the provision of the card access system to members, guests and contractors.

•  Supervise the regular termly checks of the lost property register and the disposal of

relevant items in a timely manner (timing of these checks to be agreed with the Head
Porter).

•  Represent Selwyn College at appropriate meetings in the absence of the Head Porter.

•  Play an active role in the recruitment of new porters.

•  Lead a highly positive and passionate department environment.

•  Provide assistance with the audit of data and successful implementation of systems
and processes to ensure departmental compliance with the GDPR regulations.

•  Manage and review the department documentation and procedures with the Head

Porter

•  Provide the highest standard of customer service to all clients whilst delivering a

professional service. Be an ambassador for the College at all times.

•  Report any health and safety, IT and maintenance concerns and take appropriate

action to ensure they are rectified to an acceptable timescale.

•  Monitor the lone worker procedures and to take any follow up action to ensure the

safety of College staff.

•  Monitor the general tidiness of the Lodge, post room and locker room, ensuring at all

times that items are stored in a safe manner within HSE guidelines.

•  Participate in the Freshers’ induction police and fire safety talks.

Deputy Head Porter JD – Dec 2025

•  Monitor and supervise weekly safety and security checks College wide.

•  Undertake regular spot checks of all other areas checked by the porters, document
the inspections and take any appropriate follow up actions where necessary.

•  Supervise daily checks of all college car parks for unauthorised parking and take

follow up action where necessary.

•  Monitor the College system for the registration of bicycles and undertake an annual

cull.

•  Monitor the stock of spare fire extinguishers and fire blankets and re-order / arrange

service calls as necessary.

•  Maintain a detailed working knowledge of all fire systems and all emergency

procedures in respect of alarm systems.

•  Ensure that written instructions of the fire alarm systems are included in the

database procedure file and are kept up to date following any changes or updates.

•  Undertake and accurately document weekly fire alarm tests, delegating weekly tests

to the porters in periods of absence.

•  Train and supervise the porters’ observance of all fire, health and safety and security

procedures.

•  Organise inspections of pathways and report areas of concern to the relevant
department delegating the inspections to porters during periods of absence.

•  Manage and maintain first aid kits in liaison with College departments.

•  Carry out monthly AED checks.

•  Develop and continuously update a working knowledge of all technical and

mechanical systems.  (Fire detection/alarm panels, Cripps gate program, intruder
alarms, Lodge IT, Lodge digital board, disable doors & alarms).

•  Liaise with outside service providers to ensure the lodge and College operations

continue to run smoothly and safely.

Other duties

•  Attend and assist the Head Porter during ceremonial events.

•  Provide duty cover, when necessary and as outlined in the Porter Job Description.

•  Undertake any other duties as may be reasonably requested by the Head Porter.

Deputy Head Porter JD – Dec 2025

These duties may vary from time to time.  Any signification changes will be subject to the
usual consultation process.

Where you fit into the structure:

Bursar

Senior Tutor

Operations
Manager

Head Porter

Deputy Head
Porter

Night Porters

Porters

Relief Porters

Deputy Head Porter JD – Dec 2025

Essential  Desirable

Requirements for the role

X

X

Criteria
SKILLS
Excellent administrative and organisational skills, with the ability to
effectively manage and prioritise own workload
Customer-service trained with an approachable and collaborative
working style
Strong communication skills, both verbal and written
X
Proven ability to supervise or manage a team
X
Sound IT skills preferably Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel)  X
Proven ability to delegate responsibly
X
EXPERIENCE
Previous experience in a similar Higher Education environment
Evidence of knowledge and practical application of Health and Safety or
Fire Safety or First Aid
Previous experience of dealing with challenging situations
Ability to analyse information and give clear advice
EDUCATION
Educated to A’level standard or equivalent
Demonstrates continuous learning and development
First Aid qualification
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Well-presented, professional appearance
Good powers of persuasion to enable speedy conflict resolution
Ability to act calmly in pressurised situations
Good role model
Able to treat everyone with equal importance

X
X
X
X
X

X

X

X

X

X
X
X

If you do not meet all the criteria, don’t be deterred from applying if you feel this role is for you. You may
have other relevant skills and experience which would prove valuable in this role

Deputy Head Porter JD – Dec 2025

Selwyn College Cambridge

Further Particulars

Chaplain (fixed term)

The college seeks to appoint a Chaplain as maternity leave cover on a fixed term
basis for 9 months from 13th April 2026. The post will be filled at 0.75 FTE.

The chaplaincy plays an important role in Selwyn College life. The postholder will
run the chapel, which dates back to 1895 and reflects the Anglican foundation of the
college, with a continuing commitment to worship and sacred music in that
tradition.

The Chaplain would be expected to serve as Dean of Chapel and would be a Fellow
of the College and a member of its Governing Body. The formal duties of the Dean of
Chapel and the Chaplain are specified in the College Regulations as follows:

The Dean of Chapel has control over the services in the College
Chapel. He or she has responsibility for the Chapel and for the sacred
vessels, ornaments and books in the Chapel.

The Dean of Chapel holds the substantive post of Chaplain

The Chaplain’s duties include supporting the Senior Tutor and Tutors in the
pastoral care of the members of the College; undergraduates, postgraduates,
Fellows – as well as a care for the College staff. The Chaplain deals with a
wide range of pastoral matters, including spiritual concerns affecting
students working in a high-pressure environment.

Within reasonable limits consistent with the specifications of the post, they
will be expected to be available within the college at key times. In addition to
the above, the duties of the post include:

•  Teaching the faith: for example, study groups, the annual Chapel

Retreat, and preparation for baptism and confirmation.

•  Assisting the Director of Music with the organisation and execution of

the annual choir tour.

Chaplain – further par�culars 2025

•  Supervising the voluntary Chapel team and readers.
•  Developing co-operation with Christian groups active in the College.
•  Liaising with groups and individuals representing other faiths.

The Chaplain also works pastorally with junior and senior members of
Newnham College. Newnham is a non-denominational institution with no
chapel of its own. Members of Newnham are welcomed into the Selwyn
Chapel and a number of them sing in the choir.

The duties of the Dean of Chapel concern the control of the Chapel services.
The running of the choir and music in Chapel are overseen by the Dean of
Chapel but operationally delegated to the Director of Music in chapel. The
College is committed to maintaining the tradition of prominence given to
choral and organ music in services and to encouraging the highest musical
standards.

The Dean of Chapel is also responsible for the processing of applications for
special marriage licences in connection with weddings to be held in chapel
and for granting permission for the use of chapel for rehearsals or concerts
by College or non-College groups. He or she also administers the College’s
ecclesiastical patronage on behalf of the College Council, and represents
Selwyn in liaison with the Deans and Chaplains of other Colleges, local
churches and the diocese of Ely.

In addition, the Dean of Chapel is responsible for:

•  The preparation and management of the chapel budget, including the

chapel choir budget.

•  The administration of certain funds held by the College, including
those for the support of those training for ordination within the
Anglican communion.

•  Line management of the chapel administrator.
•  The supervision of any Assistant Chaplains.
•  The supervision of any ordinands on placement in the chapel.

Chaplain – further par�culars 2025

ABOUT SELWYN COLLEGE

Selwyn is a constituent College of the University of Cambridge. It takes its
name from George Augustus Selwyn, who was the first Bishop of New
Zealand (1841-68) and later Bishop of Lichfield (1868-78), and in whose
memory the College was founded. It opened in 1882 with 28 undergraduates
It now has nearly 400 undergraduates as well as over 300 full- and part-time
postgraduate students. The College was one of the first in Cambridge to go
co-educational, admitting women in 1976. There around 60 Fellows, a body
of Bye-Fellows and Research or Teaching Associates and around 110 non-
academic staff.

The trustee body of the charity is the College Council. Day-to-day
management and the execution of policy within broad guidelines are
primarily for various college officers e.g. the Master, Vice-Master, Bursar,
Senior Tutor, Admissions Tutors and Dean. The Governing Body brings
together all non-retired Fellows on a termly basis to discuss major items of
College business.

Message from the Master, Suzanne Raine:

Thank you for your interest in joining Selwyn College.

The Chaplain matters here because Cambridge is demanding.
Students, staff and fellows need pastoral support to thrive
academically and emotionally. The Chapel and the Chaplain ensure
that everyone – of all faiths and none – has someone they can turn to
when they need help. Selwyn combines academic excellence with
genuine community, and the Chaplain plays a crucial role in that.
Everyone here works together to create an environment where people
feel supported.

We're looking for someone to cover the Chaplaincy while Arabella
Milbank Robinson is on maternity leave. Arabella is exceptional in this
role, and we need someone who can maintain her high standard while
she is away.

This is a great place to work, and we're looking for someone who will
help us preserve what makes Selwyn special.

Chaplain – further par�culars 2025

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

The appointee will be expected to reside in close proximity to the College for
the better performance of their duties. College accommodation may be
available for the period of the appointment. The stipend on appointment will
be not less than £38,249 per annum, made up of £34,610 (Chaplain) and
£3,639 (Dean of Chapel) pro rata to full-time equivalence at the rates for the
current academic year.

The Fellowship attached to the post includes the right to lunch and dine at
high table, the first seven meals in any week being at the College’s expense,
and an entertainment allowance. The college will also pay reasonable
removal expenses and a contribution towards pensions.

THE APPLICATION PROCESS

Applications should include a cover sheet (available for download here), full
curriculum vitae, and a covering statement outlining key matching experience
and rationale for applying for the post.

Applications, including a covering letter and c.v., should be sent by email as
a single PDF to the Master’s Assistant: masters-assistant@sel.cam.ac.uk
The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Friday 16th January 2026.
Two referees should be asked to submit their references by the same date.
Enquiries should be directed to the Master’s Assistant: masters-
assistant@sel.cam.ac.uk in the first instance.

Interview Dates
Interviews are expected to take place by early February.

Chaplain – further par�culars 2025

Salary:  £38,249 per annum (pro rata)

Hours: 0.75 FTE

Contract Type: Fixed-term (nine months, or until the return of the current post holder if sooner)

The College seeks to appoint a chaplain from 13 April 2026 for a fixed term of nine months, or until the return of the post holder if sooner, to cover the maternity leave of the current incumbent.

The chaplaincy is a very important role within the life of Selwyn College. The postholder will run the chapel, which dates back to 1895 and reflects the Anglican foundation of the college, with a continuing commitment to worship and sacred music; and they will also assist in the pastoral provision for students and staff of all faiths and none.

The chaplain would also be expected to serve as Dean of Chapel. They would be a fellow of the college and a member of its governing body. More information can be found in the Further Particulars enclosed:

Downloads:

Application cover sheet (.docx)

How to Apply

Please send:

• a completed cover sheet (available for download here)
• a full curriculum vitae
• a covering statement outlining key matching experience and rationale for applying for the post

To masters-assistant@sel.cam.ac.uk

Closing date: 12 noon on Friday 16 January 2026 (two referees should be asked to submit their references by the same date)

Interviews are expected to take place by early February 2026

Communications & Marketing Officer

Job Description

Job Title:

Communications and Marketing Officer

Department:

Development

Reports to:

Development Director but also works closely with Head of
Communications

Contract Type:

Permanent, full-time, 35 hours per week

Role and Context

The Communications and Marketing Officer creates high-quality publications, marketing
materials, and digital content for Selwyn's alumni, donors, and wider audiences. Established
in 2023, this role helps ensure close, day to day, links between the college's Head of Comms,
whilst working within the Development Office and helping to keep over 7,000 alumni
engaged across the world.

The postholder manages three major annual publications (Magazine, Annual Report,
Calendar), produces regular e-newsletters, markets alumni events, and creates visual
content including photography and social media. The role requires regular attendance at
college events for photography and event support, including some evenings and weekends
(typically 1-2 events per month, with peaks during Michaelmas and Easter terms). Time off
in lieu is provided.  The post is something of a hybrid, working with the Development
Director and within the alumni and development office while also working closely, day to
day, with the Head of Communications. In practice, this works well as the strategic aims of
the college’s Comms programme are closely aligned with those of the Development Dept.
You will need excellent editorial, design, and photography skills, with the ability to work
independently and manage multiple projects across different timeframes.

The small but increasingly busy alumni and development office is responsible for keeping in
touch with over 7,000 alumni of Selwyn College scattered all over the world.  The
production and delivery of regular and effective comms is one of the most important ways

Communications & Marketing Officer JD – Dec 2025

for the College to maintain and develop its relationships (including fundraising) with
alumni, friends and other potential supporters; this position is integral to that operation.
Specifically, the post liaises with the Alumni Events role/team in promoting online and live
events via email invitations, social media and other traditional publication opportunities.
Close attention to detail and a good eye for creating visually attractive communications is
required.

The role will require occasional liaison with individual alumni who contact the office with a
wide variety of enquiries.  This requires sensitivity and tact, together with a flexible
approach to communications using letter, email or phone as required.

When fully staffed, the Alumni and Development Department will comprise six individuals,
two of who are part time and four full time: the Development Director (p/t), the Major Gifts
and Legacies Manager (f/t), the Development Officer (f/t), Alumni Relations Officer (f/t),
Database Manager (p/t) and this post.   Although each role has its own specific tasks to fulfil,
the team is flexible and works closely together during busy periods.  As a member of this
close-knit team, the post can expect help and support as needed, as well as being expected to
reciprocate by helping with other fundraising and alumni activities as required.

Members of the Alumni and Development Office enjoy a light and spacious open plan office
within the recently refurbished former library building.  Team members are expected to
work from the office as this improves communication and learning, mutual support and
efficiency.  Occasional working from home or variable hours will be considered, but
working from the departmental office is the norm and encouraged wherever possible.

Key publications:

•  Selwyn Magazine (annual, June) - principal responsibility for editing and
production, working with the Master and Head of Communications

•  Annual Report (annual, April) - compiling donor records and articles from the

college community, including alumni, students and fellows

•  Calendar (annual) - supporting the editorial board led by Peter Fox
•  E-newsletters - regular updates to alumni internationally

Wider communications support:

•  Photography at college events for use across all channels
•  Social media content creation working with Head of Communications
•  Event marketing materials and audience segmentation
•  Website content updates
•  Managing digital asset library

Close attention to detail and a good eye for visual communications are essential. You'll need
to be comfortable working independently during periods when the Head of
Communications is not on site (typically 3 days per week), with clear protocols for decision-
making and escalation.

Communications & Marketing Officer JD – Dec 2025

Main duties and responsibilities

Publications

•  Edit and manage production of Magazine, Annual Report, and Calendar to

deadline and budget

•  Ensure editorial quality and brand consistency across all publications
•  Compile and design regular e-newsletters to alumni
•  Liaise with contributors, designers, printers, and suppliers
•  Manage publication budgets

Marketing and events

•  Create marketing materials for alumni events
•  Segment audiences and design targeted invitations
•  Support Alumni & Events Manager with event promotion
•  Attend events (some evenings/weekends) and provide on-site support
•  Assist with live-streaming when required

Visual content and digital

•  Photograph college events, Fellows, students, and facilities
•  Create social media content (copy, images, video) with Head of

Communications

•  Maintain organized digital asset library, liaising with Archivist
•  Support website content updates
•  Produce short videos for alumni communications and social media

Data and Administration

•  Update database (Raiser's Edge) with publication records
•  Record responses to communications and provide analytics
•  Support development team administration during busy periods
•  Liaise with alumni enquiries via letter, email, or phone

Collaboration

•  Work with Head of Communications on college-wide communications

projects

•  Support Admissions and other departments with photography and design

needs

•  Attend Development Committee and other meetings as required

Communications & Marketing Officer JD – Dec 2025

The post holder will be expected to carry out any other duties as may be reasonably
requested by the Development Director and/or Head of Communications. This job
description may change from time to time in consultation with the post-holder.

Requirements

Essential:

•  Good first degree or equivalent
•  Excellent photography skills with strong portfolio
•  Desktop publishing proficiency (Adobe InDesign, Photoshop)
•  Social media content creation experience
•  General office and IT skills
•  Ability to work independently with limited daily supervision
•  Comfortable with the hybrid nature of the post (working within the

Development team but also working closely with the Head of
Communications)

Desirable:

•  Video editing skills
•  Website CMS experience (Drupal or WordPress)
•  Understanding of higher education or charity sector
•  Live-streaming or AV skills

Person specification

We're looking for someone who:

•  Has a love of language and is visually creative with an excellent eye for

•

photography
Is well organized and can manage multiple projects across different
timeframes

•  Pays close attention to detail and accuracy
•

Is a self-starter who can manage their own workload and make sound
judgments independently

•  Communicates maturely with a wide variety of people
Is flexible and works collaboratively across teams
•
•  Can balance competing priorities from multiple stakeholders
•

Is enthusiastic about higher education and building community engagement

Working arrangements:

•  The Head of Communications works 0.6 FTE (typically 3 days/week)

Communications & Marketing Officer JD – Dec 2025

•  You'll have weekly planning meetings and clear protocols for when they're

not available

•  Development Director (full-time) provides additional day-to-day support
•  You'll need to be proactive in managing upwards and comfortable with

independent working

•  Role requires attendance at some evening and weekend events

Career development: This role offers exposure to the full communications mix
(editorial, digital, visual, strategic) with mentoring from an experienced Head of
Communications and opportunities to develop skills in video, live-streaming, and
strategic communications.

Where you fit in the structure:

Development
Director

Head of
Communications

Alumni Relations
Officer (0.5 FTE)

Alumni Relations
Officer (0.5 FTE)

Database
Coordinator

Development Officer

Major Gifts &
Legacies Manager

Communications &
Marketing Officer

College Fellow

Reporting line

Head of Department

Secondary reporting line

Staff Member(s)

Communications & Marketing Officer JD – Dec 2025

Salary: £32,580 per year

Hours: full-time, 35 hours per week

Contract Type: Permanent, subject to six months’ probation

Selwyn College is seeking a Communications & Marketing Officer to join the College's busy, friendly Alumni and Development team. You will help us keep in touch with over 7000 alumni worldwide, producing high-quality publications, digital content and visual materials that maintain and strengthen relationships across generations and continents.

Reporting to the Development Director and working closely with the Head of Communications, you will be responsible for the production of high-quality publications, marketing materials, and digital content for Selwyn's alumni, donors, and wider audiences.

The role offers good exposure to the full range of communications work, from editorial to digital to planning, with mentoring from an experienced Head of Communications. We’re looking for someone who has excellent editorial, design, and photography skills, with the ability to work independently and manage multiple projects across different timeframes and stakeholders.

The College offers excellent benefits, including:

• Generous occupational pension scheme
• A free meal on duty
• Free use of the College gym
• Free on-site parking
• Pleasant working environment
• University of Cambridge staff card (for a small charge), which offers a wide variety of perks and local discounts
• Access to the College Library and University Library
• Professional development and training opportunities
• Healthcare benefits*

*subject to completion of probationary period

Selwyn College is home to students of all backgrounds from the UK and across the world. We are proud of our diversity. We are keen to receive applications from people who may be under-represented in our community.

Downloads

How to Apply

Send a completed application form via email to recruitment@sel.cam.ac.uk. (Please do not send a CV unless this is accompanied by a completed application form.)   

Closing Date: noon, Monday 19 January 2026

Interviews: Wednesday 28 January 2026