Executive Assistant – Compliance & Development

Location: MAKE IT Barking, 3+ days a week in the office.

We are seeking a detail orientated, proactive Executive Assistant – Compliance & Development with proven experience in compliance processes to support Be First’s Development Director and the governance function. The successful candidate will be an effective organiser, confident in maintaining high levels of accuracy and skilled at anticipating requirements in advance. Acting as a trusted partner, this role is integral to the smooth operation of day to day activities, enabling the Development Director to focus on strategic priorities. Given the nature of the position, the postholder must be comfortable working with senior managers and the Board, while handling highly sensitive information with discretion. This is a dynamic and engaging role that combines governance and administrative responsibilities and reports to the Business & Executive Support Manager.

Job Salary: £38,000 - £42,000 + benefits and 30 days annual leave entitlement

Closing Date: May 13, 2026

Key tasks and accountabilities:

• Acting as gatekeeper and first point of contact for the Development Director
• Comprehensive and efficient calendar and inbox management
• Coordinate high level internal and external meetings, including booking meeting rooms, preparing agendas, arranging equipment or refreshments, taking minutes, and managing follow-up actions.
• Arranging travel and accommodation.
• Provide finance-related administrative support, including setting up new suppliers, raising purchase orders (POs), and processing invoices for payment.
• Assisting with, or leading, special projects and conducting research.
• General administrative support to the Development Director and the Development Team
• Provide EA and admin cover for colleagues during periods of annual leave to ensure continuity of service
• End to end meeting support for key Be First meetings including the Be First Board
• Managing enquiries, complaints and Freedom of Information (FOIs) requests.
• Coordinate logistics for offsites, board sessions and internal events.
• Managing processes including Project Initiation Documentation and Microsoft Teams allocations.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of administrative processes and systems.
• Use AI tools and automation to improve workflow efficiency, reduce manual tasks, and support smarter ways of working.

Person Specification:

• Proven track record as an Executive Assistant or Personal Assistant supporting C-Suite or senior executives.
• Must have previous experience supporting a Board and understanding governance processes.
• Exceptional organisational, time-management, and multitasking skills with a keen eye for detail.
• Flawless verbal and written communication skills.
• Able to react to changing requirements.
• Shows great dexterity in the works they undertake.
• Proactive, adaptable, and able to work under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Ability to handle highly sensitive, confidential information.
• Advanced proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Experience using viewpoint, Salesforce or HR systems (Desirable, not essential)
• Knowledge of UK construction best practice would be desirable.
• Collaborative team player who builds constructive relationships across the organisation.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Experience working independently and making informed decisions without close supervision.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Exposure to AI/automation tools to enhance administrative workflows.