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 15 - 15 £ per hour.
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 Us
Connect2Dorset is the managed service provider for Dorset Council, delivering high-quality temporary, contract, and interim staffing solutions. We pride ourselves on being an ethical, transparent, and people-focused organisation, committed to supporting both our clients and candidates.
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
Connect2Dorset is an equal opportunities Employment Agency & Business. It positively encourages applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates.
Executive Assistant employer: Connect2Dorset
Connect2Dorset is an exceptional employer that values ethical practices and prioritises the well-being of its employees. Located in Dorchester, this role offers a hybrid working model, allowing for flexibility while providing comprehensive support to senior leadership within Dorset Council. With a strong focus on professional development and a collaborative work culture, employees are encouraged to grow and thrive in a supportive environment, making it a rewarding place to build a career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Assistant
✨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
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 a well-structured application!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
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. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities and required skills mentioned in the job description. This will help you tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns perfectly with what they’re looking for.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
As an Executive Assistant, organisation is key. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed complex diaries or coordinated multiple projects in the past. Be ready to discuss specific tools or methods you use to stay organised, as this will demonstrate your proactive approach.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be acting as a first point of contact for senior stakeholders, it's crucial to communicate effectively. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Consider doing mock interviews with a friend to refine your verbal communication and ensure you come across as professional and approachable.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess how you handle pressure and manage sensitive information. Think of scenarios where you had to maintain discretion or resolve conflicts. Prepare concise stories that highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to remain calm under pressure, as these are essential traits for the role.
