At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Senior Bursar with high-level executive and governance tasks in a vibrant college environment.
- Company: Gonville & Caius College, a prestigious institution in Cambridge.
- Benefits: Generous pension scheme, health care cash plan, 33 days holiday, and free on-site lunch.
- Other info: 12-month fixed-term contract with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a friendly team and make a real impact in higher education while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills, confident communication, and problem-solving abilities.
Ensure all your application information is up to date and in order before applying for this opportunity.
12-month fixed-term contract - starting October 2026
The Role
Gonville & Caius College is looking to appoint an outstanding individual as Assistant to the Senior Bursar. This is an exciting, varied and busy role at the heart of a friendly Cambridge college. You will be a confident communicator, used to taking the initiative and be a natural problem solver. This is an opportunity to use your organisational skills and experience in a Higher Education setting, working closely with other staff, academic fellows and students as well as colleagues in partner organisations.
The Senior Bursar's Executive Assistant provides high-level, confidential executive and governance support to the Senior Bursar and acts as a central point of contact for them. The role requires sound judgement, discretion and initiative in anticipating priorities, coordinating information and actions across the Bursary and wider College, and ensuring that key matters are progressed effectively. The postholder supports the efficient operation of College governance and a broad range of finance, HR, remuneration, compliance, property and investment activities, ensuring that work is delivered with high quality, and efficiently.
This role is a full time 12-month fixed term position covering a period of maternity leave offering an annual salary in the range of £41K to £43K FTE per annum dependant on knowledge and skills.
Why work at Caius?
- Generous Pension Scheme; 14.5% employer contributions and 3x death in service benefit
- Health care cash plan
- 33 days of annual holiday (inc. Public Holidays)
- Free on-site lunch provided
- Workplace Nursery Scheme (salary sacrifice)
- College gym
- Car parking (subject to availability/eligibility)
- Cycle to work scheme
- The opportunity to work in a beautiful environment
The Application Process
The closing date for applications is 23:59 BST on Monday 31 August 2026. The proposed start date is mid to end October 2026. Please note: Interviews are expected to be held in person on Wednesday 9 September 2026. You are encouraged to make an early application as the vacancy may close early if sufficient applications are received.
For your application to be considered it must be complete and include an up-to-date CV and covering letter outlining your suitability for this post, along with details of 2 referees, one of whom should have detailed knowledge of your ability in relation to the requirements of the role.
Senior Bursars Executive Assistant - Maternity Cover in Newtown employer: Gonville Caius College
Gonville & Caius College offers a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment for its faculty, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation in the field of sociology. With competitive salaries and opportunities for professional development, employees are encouraged to grow their academic careers while contributing to a rich tradition of excellence in education. Located in the historic city of Cambridge, the college provides a unique setting that enhances both personal and professional life.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Bursars Executive Assistant - Maternity Cover in Newtown
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Temp Agencies
Temporary roles in HR are often filled through agencies. Reach out to temp agencies that specialise in HR placements. They can help you find gigs quickly and give you a chance to demonstrate your skills in real-world scenarios.
✨Network at HR Events and Workshops
Dive into local HR events, workshops, and seminars. These are great opportunities to meet professionals already in the field and might lead to temporary positions. Be sure to have a chat, exchange contacts, and express your interest in on-the-spot opportunities!
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
In the temporary HR world, being adaptable is key. When you're networking or interviewing, highlight your ability to quickly learn and fill diverse roles, from recruitment to employee onboarding. Make it clear that you’re ready to dive in at any time!
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out the opportunities at Gonville Caius College and apply directly via our website. This way, you can express your interest in temporary roles and get ahead in the application process!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Bursars Executive Assistant - Maternity Cover in Newtown
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your People Skills:In HR, showcasing your interpersonal skills is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you have dealing with talent management, resolving conflicts, or facilitating workshops. We want to see your ability to connect with others!
Tailor Your CV to HR:Use HR-specific language in your CV and cover letter. Mention any specific HR tools, software, or methodologies you’re familiar with, like ATS systems or performance management frameworks. This will show that you’re not just a good fit, but you've got the know-how to back it up!
Emphasise Your Flexibility:Since this is a temporary role, emphasising your adaptability and willingness to learn quickly is crucial. Include examples of how you've successfully jumped into new environments before or handled sudden changes in previous jobs. We love a team player who can hit the ground running!
Availability Matters:In your application, make sure to clarify your availability and commitment to the temporary position. This will help us understand when you can start and how you fit into our plans at Gonville Caius College. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gonville Caius College
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
Given that this is a temporary HR role at Gonville Caius College, it's crucial to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to adapt quickly. You might be thrown into new projects or systems, so share examples of how you've successfully navigated changes in past roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with HR Tools
Many HR positions require familiarity with tools like HRIS or ATS systems. Before the interview, brush up on the specific software that Gonville Caius College uses—if you see any mentioned in the job posting, make sure you're ready to discuss them and your experience with similar tools.
✨Your Motivation Matters
As a temp, it's essential to convey your motivation for this role. Employers often look for candidates who are not just filling a position, but who are genuinely keen on contributing effectively in a short period. Consider sharing why you’re passionate about HR and how you see yourself adding value at Gonville Caius College.
✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios
HR interviews often include situational questions that test your problem-solving skills. Think about common HR challenges, like dealing with conflict or managing onboarding efficiently, and prepare to discuss how you would handle these situations at Gonville Caius College.
