At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide executive support to the Director and Deputy Director of Public Health.
- Company: Join Hertfordshire County Council, a supportive and dynamic workplace.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Fixed term role with potential for secondment opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public health while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in diary management and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 31536 - 34433 € per year.
Job Title: Executive Support Officer
Starting Salary: £31,537 opportunity to progress to £34,434 per annum (pro rata for part time)
Hours: 30
Location: Stevenage/Hybrid
Contract Type: Fixed term / secondment opportunity until end May 2027
Directorate: Resources
About the team
Our Business Support Service is looking for a highly motivated, enthusiastic, and organised Executive Support Officer who will provide direct executive support to the Executive Director, Growth and Environment. This fixed-term, 12‑month maternity cover position is located in the Executive Support Hub as part of the central Business Support Service alongside more than 400 colleagues.
About the role
Provide dedicated, high‑quality support to the Executive Director of Growth and Environment by managing their diary and inbox, acting as first point of contact, and representing the organisation professionally. Work closely with senior officers to understand working styles and build effective relationships. Manage key meetings by drafting agendas, collating board packs, maintaining forward plans and action logs, and minuting meetings. Handle regular interactions with internal and external stakeholders and partners.
About you
Enthusiastic, self‑motivated, professional and approachable with excellent team‑support skills and a can‑do attitude.
Essential
- Experience in diary and inbox management for a senior leader or executive, prioritising issues and invitations on behalf of the Executive Director.
- Excellent prioritisation, time management and capability to handle competing timescales and complex diary requirements.
- Strong customer care skills, experience dealing with confidential and sensitive matters, and representing the organisation and Executive Director to stakeholders.
- Knowledge of the formal process surrounding Board meetings, including minutes, actions and next steps.
- Administrator experience with Microsoft Office, including Excel.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience organising event hire, equipment, catering, and conferences for management boards.
Desirable
- Previous experience supporting an executive‑level role.
- Knowledge or experience of working in a political environment, local government objectives and current issues.
- Experience using SharePoint and MS Teams.
- Knowledge of forthcoming political events impacting local authorities.
This role is within the Business Support Services, level 8 job profile.
Disability Confident
We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer and guarantee an interview to anyone disclosing a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the post.
English Fluency
Ability to converse at ease with members of the public and provide advice in accurate spoken English is essential. For those using a signed language, a sign language interpreter who speaks English to the required standard of fluency will be required.
Business Executive Support Officer in Stevenage employer: Hertfordshire County Council
Hertfordshire County Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment where you can make a meaningful impact on the community. With opportunities for professional growth and development, as well as a commitment to inclusivity and employee well-being, you will thrive in a role that values your contributions while working alongside dedicated colleagues in a hybrid setting. Join us in Stevenage and be part of a team that delivers essential services to the residents of Hertfordshire.
Contact Detail:
Hertfordshire County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Executive Support Officer in Stevenage
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role inside out! Familiarise yourself with the job description and think about how your skills match what they're looking for. This will help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees on LinkedIn to get the inside scoop on the company culture and expectations. A friendly chat can give you valuable insights that might just give you the edge.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to diary management, communication skills, and handling sensitive information. Role-playing with a friend can help you feel more confident.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the team at Hertfordshire County Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Executive Support Officer in Stevenage
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Business Executive Support Officer role. Highlight your experience in diary and inbox management, as well as any relevant skills in Microsoft Office. We want to see how you can bring your unique flair to our team!
Showcase Your Skills:In your application, include specific examples that demonstrate your excellent customer care skills and ability to handle confidential matters. We love seeing how you've tackled challenges in the past, so don’t hold back!
Keep It Professional:Remember, you’ll be representing us! Make sure your written communication is clear, professional, and free of errors. A polished application shows us you’re serious about joining our team and can communicate effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s super easy, and you’ll find all the details you need to submit your CV and cover letter. Let’s get your application rolling!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hertfordshire County Council
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Business Executive Support Officer. Familiarise yourself with diary management, stakeholder communication, and the specific needs of the Director and Deputy Director of Public Health. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience with managing multiple tasks and prioritising effectively. Think of specific examples where you've successfully handled competing demands or tight deadlines. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a busy environment, which is crucial for this position.
✨Communicate Clearly and Professionally
Since excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. You might even want to prepare a few key points about your previous experiences that highlight your customer care skills and professionalism. Remember, you'll be representing the organisation, so first impressions matter!
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street, so think of insightful questions to ask about the team dynamics, the challenges the Directors face, or how success is measured in this role. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the position is the right fit for you.
