At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide top-notch admin support to senior leaders and manage busy schedules.
- Company: Join Connect2Dorset, a people-focused organisation supporting local councils.
- Benefits: Earn £14.82 per hour with flexible working hours in a hybrid role.
- Other info: Great opportunity for career growth in a dynamic public sector environment.
- Why this job: Be the backbone of operations and make a real difference in local governance.
- Qualifications: Experience in admin or PA roles, strong communication, and organisational skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 30000 £ per year.
Location: Dorchester (Hybrid)
Contract Type: Temporary (3-6 months)
Hours: 28 hours (can be spread across the week or one day off negotiated)
Salary: £14.82 per hour
About the Role
We are seeking a highly organised and proactive Executive Assistant to provide comprehensive administrative and business support to senior leadership within Dorset Council. This role is essential in ensuring the smooth and efficient running of day-to-day operations, managing priorities, and supporting key projects and initiatives.
The successful candidate will act as a first point of contact for senior stakeholders, manage complex diaries and meetings, coordinate communications, and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external partners. The role requires excellent organisational skills, discretion when handling confidential information, and the ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced administrator or PA who thrives in a professional environment and is confident supporting senior leaders.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide high-level administrative and executive support to senior leadership teams
- Act as a first point of contact for enquiries via phone, email, and correspondence
- Manage complex diaries, appointments, meetings, and travel arrangements
- Organise meetings, prepare agendas and papers, take minutes, and follow up on actions
- Coordinate workloads and priorities to meet deadlines and business needs
- Build and maintain effective relationships with colleagues, stakeholders, external organisations, and partners
- Prepare reports, presentations, and other business documents as required
- Handle sensitive and confidential information with professionalism and discretion
- Support projects, events, seminars, and conferences as required
- Maintain accurate records and ensure effective administrative systems are in place
- Assist with complaints, committee reports, and other governance-related activities where necessary
- Provide support and cover within the wider administration team during periods of absence
Skills & Experience
- Significant administrative, PA, or executive support experience within a busy environment
- Experience managing multiple priorities and working to tight deadlines
- Strong diary management and organisational skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to build positive working relationships with stakeholders at all levels
- Experience handling confidential and sensitive information
- Excellent IT skills including Microsoft Office applications
- Ability to work independently, use initiative, and remain calm under pressure
- Minute-taking experience and strong attention to detail
- Knowledge or experience of Local Government or public sector environments would be advantageous
Executive Assistant in Dorchester employer: Connect2Dorset
Connect2Dorset is an exceptional employer that values ethical practices and prioritises a people-focused work culture. Located in the picturesque town of Dorchester, we offer flexible working arrangements and a supportive environment that fosters professional growth and development. As part of our team, you will have the opportunity to engage with senior leadership while contributing to meaningful projects that impact the local community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Assistant in Dorchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections on LinkedIn or through professional groups. Let them know you're on the lookout for an Executive Assistant role, and who knows? They might just have the perfect lead for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand what they value and how you can contribute. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills with a friend or in front of a mirror. Focus on articulating your experience in managing complex diaries and supporting senior leaders. Confidence is key, so make sure you’re ready to shine!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Assistant in Dorchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Executive Assistant role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially in managing diaries and supporting senior leaders. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've handled similar responsibilities in the past. We love a good story!
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves a lot of communication, make sure your written application reflects your excellent communication skills. Keep it clear, concise, and professional. We appreciate attention to detail!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at Connect2Dorset
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the Executive Assistant role and its responsibilities. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks mentioned in the job description, like managing complex diaries and supporting senior leadership. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
During the interview, be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed multiple priorities in a busy environment. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, highlighting your strong organisational skills and ability to work under pressure.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
Since this role involves building relationships with stakeholders, it's essential to connect with your interviewers. Be friendly, maintain eye contact, and engage in active listening. This will not only make you more memorable but also demonstrate your interpersonal skills, which are crucial for an Executive Assistant.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and discretion when handling confidential information. Think of potential situations you might face in the role and prepare thoughtful responses. This will show that you're proactive and ready to tackle challenges head-on.
