At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage the Director's diary, inbox, and travel while providing high-level administrative support.
- Company: Join HM Revenue & Customs, a key player in UK tax policy.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, flexible working, and a generous pension contribution.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for personal development and career growth.
- Why this job: Gain insight into decision-making at the heart of government and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and effective communication with diverse stakeholders.
Join to apply for the Personal Assistant to Director - Policy Directorate role at HM Revenue & Customs.
Base pay range: £29,475. Alongside a salary of £29,475, HMRC contributes £8,538 toward the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Flexible and hybrid working options are available. Leave allowance starts at 25 days and increases with service.
About the Director’s Office: Individuals Policy Directorate (IPD) brings together all the policy and technical aspects of taxes and benefits that impact one‑to‑one customers. We maintain and design tax policy in partnership with HM Treasury, advising Ministers and ensuring consistent application of existing policies. The team of ~400 people delivers large‑scale change programmes and works closely with Treasury on pensions, charities and savings.
As the Director’s personal assistant you will manage the private office, caring for diary, inbox and travel, and providing high‑level administrative and policy support. Your work will give you insight into how key decisions are made across HMRC and Whitehall.
Key Responsibilities:- Diary management – organise meetings with senior colleagues, Treasury, external stakeholders; identify appropriate deputies, plan proactively and ensure the Director’s time is used effectively.
- Inbox management – support the Director’s private secretaries in triaging mail, filing papers and preparing for meetings.
- HR and administrative tasks – routine HR work on behalf of the Director, travel arrangements and expense management.
- Business support – record keeping and budget management for IPD.
- Ad‑hoc support – cover for the assistant private secretary and support the office as required.
- Build and maintain relationships across HMRC and Treasury private offices and senior officials.
- Strong organisational and planning skills.
- Sound judgement, ability to understand the Director’s priorities.
- Proactive with capacity to prioritise your own and the Director’s time.
- Work flexibly at pace in an ambiguous, changing environment.
- Effective communication with a wide range of stakeholders.
- Pension – 28.97% Alpha pension contribution.
- Family friendly policies.
- Personal support.
- Coaching and development.
How to Apply: CV – a name-blind CV focusing on recent and relevant experience. Personal statement – 500 words, demonstrating how you meet the essential criteria with real examples and outcomes.
Artificial Intelligence may support your application, but all examples and statements must be truthful and your own experience. Plagiarism or AI-generated content may result in withdrawal of consideration.
Sift & Interview: Initial sift on the personal statement; CV and statement assessed at full sift. Successful candidates will be invited to a video panel interview focusing on behaviours, experience, and strengths-based questions.
Seniority level: Associate. Employment type: Full-time. Job function: Administrative, General Business, and Public Relations.
Personal Assistant to Director - Policy Directorate in Cardiff employer: HM Revenue & Customs
HM Revenue & Customs is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With flexible and hybrid working options from the vibrant city of Cardiff, employees enjoy a generous leave allowance, comprehensive pension contributions, and opportunities for personal development through coaching. Joining HMRC means being part of a dynamic team that plays a crucial role in shaping tax policy and making impactful decisions at the heart of government.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Personal Assistant to Director - Policy Directorate in Cardiff
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like HM Revenue & Customs, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like HM Revenue & Customs and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Personal Assistant to Director - Policy Directorate in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for HM Revenue & Customs and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at HM Revenue & Customs
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with HM Revenue & Customs, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for HM Revenue & Customs.