At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Chairman with correspondence, diary management, and meeting preparation.
- Company: Join a prestigious investment firm known for its fantastic culture and strong staff retention.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible hours, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a reputable firm while making a real impact through philanthropic support.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Private Secretary or similar role, with excellent organisational and problem-solving skills.
- Other info: This is a permanent, part-time role with a unique 2 weeks on/off schedule.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 42000 £ per year.
Private Secretary to Chairman
Part-time – 2 weeks on / 2 weeks off 9am – 5:30pm (some flex required)
Westminster
Permanent
Fully office-based
The Client: A prestigious investment firm with a fantastic company culture, strong staff retention and excellent benefits. The firm has around 300 in the London office and a global presence, and is highly reputable in their field.
The Role: This is a busy Private Secretary role supporting the Chairman, who splits their time between London and their countryside residence. When in London (for 2 weeks every month), the Chairman will require comprehensive private and business support, which includes (but is not limited to):
- Acting as gatekeeper and first point of contact for the Chairman, managing all correspondence and diary appointments
- Creating weekly briefing packs and making sure the Chairman is prepared for all meetings, including research and biographies of clients, and printing everything in advance of their arrival
- Liaising with stakeholders, clients and trustees
- Working closely with the Household PA on personal matters
- Supporting the Chairman’s philanthropic endeavours
- Ad-hoc administrative support.
Candidate Specification:
- Prior Private Secretary (or similar) experience of supporting at Chairman or similar level, ideally in a family office or HNW household environment
- High level of emotional intelligence
- Excellent problem-solving skills able to work on own initiative
- Excellent organization and prioritisation skills
- Highly professional and discrete.
Additional Information:
This is a permanent, part-time position commencing ASAP. Salary up to £75K as a full-time equivalent (circa £35K pro-rata). Working hours will be 2 weeks on, 2 weeks off, to correspond with when the Chairman is in London. Some variations may occur, but these would be communicated well in advance. Hours are 9am – 5:30pm, with some flexibility for early or late meetings required. Weekend or out of hours work is unlikely. The role is fully office-based, but you may also be required to work in the Chairman’s private office (also in Westminster). Our client is looking for someone to start ASAP. If this sounds like the role for you, please apply today!
Private Secretary employer: VWA (Victoria Wall Associates)
Contact Detail:
VWA (Victoria Wall Associates) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Private Secretary
✨Tip Number 1
Research the investment firm thoroughly. Understand their values, culture, and recent projects. This knowledge will help you tailor your conversations and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role during any interactions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former employees of the firm. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations for the Private Secretary role, which can give you an edge in discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your emotional intelligence and problem-solving skills. Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed high-pressure situations or supported senior executives.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to discuss your organisational and prioritisation skills. Consider how you would manage the Chairman's diary and correspondence effectively, and be prepared to share strategies that have worked for you in similar roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Private Secretary
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience as a Private Secretary or in similar roles. Emphasise your skills in organisation, discretion, and emotional intelligence, as these are crucial for supporting the Chairman.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the requirements of the role. Mention your previous experience in high-level support, your problem-solving abilities, and how you can contribute to the Chairman's needs.
Showcase Your Research Skills: In your application, demonstrate your ability to conduct thorough research. Mention any relevant experience where you prepared briefing packs or managed correspondence, as this is a key part of the role.
Highlight Flexibility and Professionalism: Since the role requires some flexibility with hours, make sure to express your willingness to adapt to the Chairman's schedule. Highlight your professionalism and discretion, which are essential for this position.
How to prepare for a job interview at VWA (Victoria Wall Associates)
✨Research the Company and Chairman
Before your interview, take the time to research the investment firm and its Chairman. Understand their values, recent projects, and philanthropic efforts. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and show that you're proactive.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
As a Private Secretary, strong organisational skills are crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've managed complex schedules or handled multiple tasks simultaneously in previous roles. Highlight any tools or methods you use to stay organised.
✨Demonstrate Emotional Intelligence
Given the high level of emotional intelligence required for this role, be ready to share instances where you've successfully navigated challenging interpersonal situations. This could involve managing expectations or resolving conflicts with stakeholders.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and discretion. Think about potential challenges you might face in this role and how you would handle them. Practising your responses can help you feel more confident during the interview.