At a Glance
- Tasks: Support senior leaders and coordinate impactful R&D events in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join Illumina, a leader in genomic technology transforming human health.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible benefits, and a supportive work-life balance.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with opportunities for personal and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in health equity while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in executive support, event planning, and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30600 - 45800 £ per year.
At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realise health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients.
Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world-changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.
We are seeking a highly organised, proactive Senior Administrative Assistant to provide dedicated support to a senior R&D leader, alongside coordinating regional and global events across the R&D organisation. This is a highly visible, fast-paced role, requiring strong collaboration across global teams, particularly with US-based stakeholders, and the ability to manage complex priorities with confidence and discretion.
Key Responsibilities- Executive Support
- Provide full PA support, including calendar management, travel coordination, and expense management
- Act as a trusted partner, anticipating needs and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations
- Prepare presentations, reports, and materials for business reviews and leadership meetings
- Events & Coordination
- Plan and deliver CSA and R&D events, both regional and global
- Coordinate logistics end-to-end, partnering cross-functionally to ensure seamless execution
- Support wider global initiatives and team engagement activities
- Operations & Communication
- Manage communications and respond to internal/external requests with professionalism
- Coordinate across departments and global teams to gather information and drive outcomes
- Support ad hoc projects, research, and reporting activities
- Strong experience in executive support, calendar management, and event planning
- Highly collaborative and efficient, with the ability to work cross-functionally across global teams
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving environment with competing priorities
- Excellent communication skills and attention to detail
- Proficiency in Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
You’ll be part of the core R&D team, working closely with leaders and colleagues across regions. Success in this role comes from being:
- Accountable – owning priorities and delivering with excellence
- Collaborative (Win Together) – building strong relationships across teams and geographies
- Customer-focused (Make Customers Heroes) – enabling leaders and teams to perform at their best
- Innovative with Purpose – finding smarter, more efficient ways to operate
- Committed to Excellence – maintaining high standards in everything you deliver
We are a company deeply rooted in belonging, promoting an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to our mission. Built on a strong foundation, Illumina has always prioritised openness, collaboration, and seeking alternative perspectives to propel innovation in genomics.
Illumina conducts background checks on applicants for whom a conditional offer of employment has been made. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws.
Senior Administrative Assistant in Cambridge employer: Illumina
At Illumina, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Cambridge where innovation meets purpose. Our commitment to employee wellbeing is reflected in our comprehensive benefits package, including flexible time off, a generous pension contribution, and private medical insurance, all designed to support your personal and professional growth. Join us to be part of a collaborative culture that values diversity, fosters career development, and empowers you to make a meaningful impact on global health through cutting-edge genomic technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Administrative Assistant in Cambridge
✨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 Illumina!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
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 Illumina.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Administrative Assistant in Cambridge
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 Illumina. 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 Illumina 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 Illumina. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Illumina'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 Illumina
✨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 Illumina.
✨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 Illumina 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 Illumina and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.