Private Secretary to the Director of EU and International Trade

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary contact for Director and Deputy Director Support, ensuring the senior leadership team are informed of urgent issues and developments.
• Lead a team of 3 EO colleagues across Director and Deputy Director support, embedding clear systems and ensuring operational resilience.
• Build a strong working relationship with the Director through regular meetings and tailored support.
• Assist in prioritising and delegating tasks, enabling the Director to focus on key priorities.
• Manage the Director's inbox and diary efficiently, prioritising actions and liaising with stakeholders.
• Ensure the Director is well‑prepared for meetings with the necessary papers and briefings.
• Maintain key contacts within EU and International Trade policy and analyst areas.
• Provide secretariat support for senior stakeholder meetings, including scheduling, preparing documents, and escorting stakeholders.
• Build strong relationships across Defra to facilitate delivery of work to often challenging deadlines.
• Manage time flexibly to address competing priorities and support the senior leadership team.
• Strong strategic awareness: Understand EUIT priorities and anticipate emerging issues.
• Effective decision‑making: Effectively prioritise requests, escalating when needed.
• Leadership: Provide effective support and development to a team of 4 EOs alongside clearly commissioning work to EUIT Divisions on behalf of the Director.
• Clear communication: Engage confidently with senior leadership and colleagues of all levels.
• Effective relationship building: Build strong relationships to drive effective teamwork.
• Experience in service management: Ensure office efficiency and adaptability in response to urgent requests.
• Ability to work at pace: Operate in a fast‑moving environment, keeping the Director informed and addressing urgent matters promptly.
• #J-18808-Ljbffr