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- Tasks: Support the Chairman with diary management, correspondence, 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 strong organisational and problem-solving skills.
- Other info: This is a part-time, permanent position 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 during any interviews.
✨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 your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing high-level correspondence and diary management. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your organisational skills and emotional intelligence, as these are crucial for supporting the Chairman.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the philanthropic endeavours of the Chairman. Showing that you understand and appreciate their interests can set you apart and demonstrate your commitment to supporting their initiatives.
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 prior experience in high-level support roles and how you can contribute to the Chairman's needs, including your ability to manage correspondence and prepare briefing packs.
Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've successfully solved problems in previous roles. This could include managing conflicting schedules or handling sensitive information discreetly.
Highlight Flexibility: Since the role requires some flexibility in working hours, mention your willingness to adapt to the Chairman's schedule. This shows that you understand the demands of the position and are ready to meet them.
How to prepare for a job interview at VWA (Victoria Wall Associates)
✨Research the Company Culture
Before your interview, take some time to understand the company's culture and values. This prestigious investment firm prides itself on a fantastic company culture, so demonstrating that you align with their ethos will make a strong impression.
✨Prepare for Diary Management Questions
As a Private Secretary, you'll be managing the Chairman's diary and appointments. Be ready to discuss your experience in this area, including how you prioritise tasks and handle scheduling conflicts. Providing specific examples will showcase your organisational skills.
✨Showcase Your Emotional Intelligence
Given the high level of emotional intelligence required for this role, think of scenarios where you've successfully navigated sensitive situations or built rapport with stakeholders. Highlighting these experiences will demonstrate your suitability for supporting a high-profile individual.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. Inquire about the Chairman's philanthropic endeavours or the types of projects you might support. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the company, setting you apart from other candidates.
