At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Director by managing their diary, inbox, and travel arrangements.
- Company: Join a leading research centre in Manchester, making an impact in academia and science.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, full-time hours, and a dynamic work environment.
- Why this job: Be at the heart of operations, gain valuable experience, and work with inspiring professionals.
- Qualifications: Experience as a PA or EA is essential; degree level education preferred.
- Other info: This is a permanent role with opportunities for growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 36000 £ per year.
Executive Assistant to the Director Manchester £32,000 – £36,000 per annum (dependent on experience) Full-time (37 hours), Permanent The Role: We’re looking for a highly organised and proactive Executive Assistant to support the Director of a leading research centre based in Manchester. This is a busy and varied role working at the heart of the Centre’s operations. You’ll manage the Director’s complex diary and inbox, organise meetings, arrange travel, and provide day-to-day support that helps keep things running smoothly. You’ll also play a key role in supporting the wider admin team with visitors, events, and general coordination. It’s a great opportunity for someone confident, detail-oriented, and comfortable handling sensitive information, ideally with experience in a similar role within a fast-paced academic, clinical, or scientific setting. Duties: Provide high-level support to the Director, managing diary, inbox, meetings, and travel. Prepare agendas, meeting papers, take minutes, and track actions. Act as first point of contact for the Director’s office and respond to or direct enquiries. Manage and book travel, accommodation, and prepare detailed itineraries. Ensure timely handling of tasks, helping the Director stay ahead of deadlines. Maintain confidential records and update CVs, biosketches, and publication lists. Support visits to the Centre, including VIPs, partners, and interview candidates. Help organise Centre-wide meetings and strategic team sessions. Liaise with internal departments to ensure effective communication and coordination. Support the wider administration team with general duties including filing, payments, and onboarding processes.Required Skills: Extensive experience as a PA, EA or administrative lead supporting senior staff. Excellent organisation and time management skills. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal. High attention to detail, proof-reading, and discretion with confidential matters. Confident using Microsoft Office, Outlook, and Teams. Able to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities. Proactive, flexible, and calm under pressure. Experience working in a research, academic or clinical environment is desirable. Educated to degree level or equivalent experience. If this sounds like the perfect role for you then please submit your CV. This vacancy is being handled by Aspire Recruitment. Please be aware we receive a high volume of applications and regularly receive applications from candidates who exceed the job credentials. We will only contact you within the next 14 days if you are selected for interview. Should you apply for this role, we will process your data as detailed in our
Executive Assistant to the Director employer: Aspire Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Aspire Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Assistant to the Director
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of the Director and the research centre. Understanding their priorities and challenges will help you demonstrate how your skills can directly support their goals during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former Executive Assistants in similar roles. They can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities and expectations, which can help you tailor your approach when discussing your fit for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your organisational skills by preparing a mock calendar or itinerary for the Director. This practical demonstration can set you apart from other candidates and highlight your proactive nature.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the latest trends in administrative support within academic and clinical settings. Being knowledgeable about current best practices can help you engage in meaningful conversations and show your commitment to the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Assistant to the Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience as a PA or EA, particularly in supporting senior staff. Emphasise your organisational skills and any experience in a research, academic, or clinical environment.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your proactive approach and ability to manage multiple priorities. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully handled complex diaries and sensitive information in previous roles.
Highlight Key Skills: In your application, focus on your strong communication skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with Microsoft Office, Outlook, and Teams. These are crucial for the role and should be clearly stated.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter to ensure there are no errors. This demonstrates your attention to detail and professionalism, which are essential for an Executive Assistant.
How to prepare for a job interview at Aspire Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
As an Executive Assistant, your ability to manage complex schedules is crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully organised diaries, managed multiple priorities, and ensured smooth operations in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Discretion and Professionalism
Handling sensitive information is a key part of this role. During the interview, highlight your experience with confidential matters and how you maintain professionalism in challenging situations.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure. Think of scenarios where you've had to adapt quickly or manage unexpected changes, and be ready to share those experiences.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Centre's Work
Research the research centre and its projects before the interview. Showing knowledge about their work will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and help you connect your skills to their needs.