Executive Assistant (12 Month Fixed Term Contract Maternity Cover) in London

Who we are: Burson, part of WPP, is the global communications leader built to create value for clients through reputation. With highly specialized teams, industry-leading technologies and breakthrough creative, we help brands and businesses redefine reputation as a competitive advantage so they can lead today and into the future. When you work at Burson, you are part of a global community of lifelong learners who thrive at the edge of innovation.

More about the role: We are looking for a highly organised, proactive and adaptable Executive Assistant to join our EMEA HQ team based from London. This is a pivotal role, working closely with two senior leaders at the heart of our business and acting as a trusted partner across a fast-paced, complex and highly connected environment. You will bring significant Executive Assistant experience, ideally gained within an international, matrixed and professional services organisation. You will be confident working at pace, managing competing priorities and handling sensitive information with complete discretion. The role requires someone who is calm, well organised, highly detail-oriented and able to build trusted relationships with stakeholders at all levels. This is a visible and varied role requiring excellent judgement, strong communication skills and a positive, solutions-focused approach. Experience working within a global network organisation would be a distinct advantage. Please note that this role requires some office-based working.

What you'll do:

• Manage complex and fast-moving diaries ensuring meetings are well coordinated, prioritised and prepared for effectively.
• Coordinate internal and external meetings, including senior leadership sessions, client meetings, board-level engagements and key business forums.
• Handle high volumes of communication with professionalism and discretion, prioritising responses and escalating urgent or sensitive matters where appropriate.
• Arrange all aspects of domestic and international travel, including flights, visas, accommodation, itineraries and associated logistics.
• Act as a key point of contact for senior internal and external stakeholders, representing the business with confidence, warmth and professionalism.
• Build strong relationships across the leadership team and wider business, ensuring the two key stakeholders are well supported and connected.
• Support onboarding for senior hires and help coordinate company-wide meetings, leadership sessions, events and key cultural moments.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across EMEA HQ teams and the wider EA team to support new business activity, marketing initiatives, senior recruitment and the smooth running of day-to-day operations.

Experience that contributes to success:

• Significant experience as an Executive Assistant or Senior Personal Assistant, ideally supporting C-suite or senior leadership in a fast-paced, complex environment.
• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities, anticipate needs and deliver work with accuracy and pace.
• Complete discretion and sound judgement when handling confidential, commercially sensitive or personal information.
• Strong communication skills, with the confidence to engage effectively with colleagues, clients and stakeholders at every level.
• A proactive, positive and can-do approach, with the ability to stay calm, flexible and solutions-focused under pressure.
• Strong attention to detail, combined with the ability to understand the bigger picture and operate with professionalism and maturity.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Outlook, PowerPoint, Word and Excel.
• Experience or confidence working with social media platforms would be advantageous.
• Confident working with AI tools and digital resources to enhance productivity, streamline ways of working and support high-quality, efficient delivery.