At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide top-notch administrative support to the Master and lead a small team.
- Company: Join Haileybury, a prestigious independent school with a rich history.
- Benefits: Enjoy a pension scheme, free lunch, and access to fantastic facilities.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth in a supportive and diverse community.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic environment that values discretion and teamwork.
- Qualifications: Experience in administration and a proactive, solution-oriented mindset.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Haileybury is seeking to appoint an experienced, solution-oriented, and proactive Executive Assistant to the Master. The Executive Assistant to the Master is critical to the smooth, efficient and effective administration of the School. The post-holder will be expected to provide support of the highest standard. This is a role of central importance that requires the utmost discretion, reliability and trustworthiness.
The primary objective of the role is to provide first-class administrative support to the Master. In addition, the Master’s EA leads a small team of reception/administrative staff, ensuring consistent outstanding customer service across the administrative function.
The successful candidate will approach challenges with a solution-oriented attitude and maintain a calm, assured and professional demeanour while under pressure. They will be collaborative and demonstrate a strong work ethic and proactive approach in all their dealings. This is a full-time role. Please note that occasional evening and weekend work may be required to support School events.
About Haileybury: Haileybury is an outstanding independent co-educational boarding and day school of over 900 pupils aged 11 to 18. Established in 1862, the School is situated on a beautiful 500-acre estate in Hertfordshire. Haileybury has an exceptional reputation in the UK and internationally, and is pleased to share an excellent outcome from its most recent Independent Schools Inspectorate visit in October 2025, highlighting a broad and balanced curriculum, enthusiastic teaching and an extensive range of sport, outdoor education, drama, and music. We are also thrilled that Haileybury has been awarded the prestigious title of Boarding School of the Year 2024 by Tes.
Benefits offered include membership of the Operations staff pension scheme, lunch in the School’s magnificent Dining Hall, and use of the School’s facilities including gyms, a swimming pool, tennis club, and our Health and Wellbeing Centre.
How to apply: To apply for the above position, applications should include a completed application form, with reference to the candidate brief, submitted by Wednesday 1 July 2026 at 12 noon. Further to shortlisting, interviews will be held on Wednesday 8 July and Thursday 9 July 2026. Please be aware that we cannot consider an application unless the application form has been filled in completely, including details of your full employment history. The School reserves the right to make an appointment before the closing date; candidates are therefore encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
The School has a diverse pupil body and is committed to its strategy of equal opportunity, diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from candidates with a wide range of backgrounds to enrich our collective knowledge and experience. Appointments will be made on merit.
Haileybury is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. Applicants for the above post must be willing to undergo child protection vetting, including reference checks with previous employers, prohibition checks and a criminal record check via the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Executive Assistant to the Master in Watford employer: Haileybury
Haileybury is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment where the Executive Assistant to the Master plays a vital role in the school's administration. With access to outstanding facilities, a commitment to employee wellbeing, and opportunities for professional growth, staff are encouraged to thrive both personally and professionally. Located on a stunning 500-acre estate in Hertfordshire, Haileybury not only boasts a prestigious reputation but also fosters a culture of inclusivity and excellence, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Assistant to the Master in Watford
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Haileybury!
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Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Haileybury.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Assistant to the Master in Watford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Haileybury. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Haileybury and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Haileybury. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Haileybury's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Haileybury
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Haileybury.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Haileybury will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Haileybury and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
