Executive Assistant in Leeds

Salary: £30-40K+ (negotiable, dependent on experience) with performance-based bonus, health insurance, pension contributions, car allowance, etc.

Location: Hybrid – 4 days in Leeds office

About Anstar: Founded in 2018, Anstar is a dynamic, rapidly growing startup specialising in speciality chemicals distribution headquartered in Leeds, UK. We bridge Eastern manufacturers and global markets, leading in the UV‐curing sector with a strong portfolio of photoinitiators. Our agile, lean structure prioritises transparency, openness, and a customer‐first approach driven by ambitious, high‐potential individuals.

Highlights:

• Committed to sustainable business practices, including sourcing bi‐sourced raw materials to minimise environmental impact.
• Technical excellence is a priority; all sales personnel possess a strong chemistry background, enabling a full‐breadth service offering.
• Technology‐first approach utilisation of cutting‐edge software and automation to drive efficiency and scalable growth.

The Opportunity: As Anstar expands, we are looking for a capable and driven Executive Assistant to support our leadership team and help shape the company's future. This is a rare chance to join a fast‐growing business where your work will have a direct and visible impact. You will act as the right hand to the Managing Director and Head of Finance & Operations, keeping them organised, informed, and focused on key priorities. At the same time, you will look after recruitment and HR, building the team that will take Anstar to its next stage of growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Executive assistant to both the Managing Director and Head of Finance & Operations, acting as their first point of contact.
• Provide comprehensive executive support, managing both professional and selective personal assistance (booking personal appointments, assisting with personal projects, hobbies and errands).
• Manage complex calendars over multiple time zones, schedule and coordinate meetings.
• Keep the team on top of important tasks and deadlines.
• Handle all travel logistics and itineraries.
• Assist with expense tracking and accounts payable.
• Maintain and organise files, presentations and correspondence for fast retrieval.
• Maintain office welfare, organise events and socials.
• Assist with recruitment and interview coordination.
• Oversee new employee onboarding, including induction planning, training coordination, and system access setup.
• Manage basic day‐to‐day HR operations (holiday requests, absence tracking, employee records, policy compliance).
• Take care of day‐to‐day office operations, including managing supplies, equipment and facilities.

Essential Requirements:

• Highly personable, with strong qualitative and quantitative problem‐solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organisation, time management abilities, with excellent attention to detail.
• Enthusiastic, open‐minded and very willing to learn.
• Tech savvy – highly proficient with technology (laptops, phones, etc.), Microsoft software (Windows, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.) and generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT).
• Self‐motivated and proactive in anticipating needs.
• Committed to going above and beyond expectations.
• Able to work independently under remote management.
• A degree from a reputable university.
• Interest or previous experience in the chemicals industry is desirable but not essential.

How to Apply: Please submit a CV to: hr@anstar.com. The interview process will consist of an initial phone call, followed by 2 interview rounds.

Equal Opportunity Employer: Anstar is an equal‐opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Contact & Additional Information: Website: www.anstar.com Offices: Airedale House, 423 Kirkstall Rd, Leeds, LS4 2EW Founder & Managing Director: Dr Liangyu Hawkes