Executive Assistant

Our client is seeking a highly organised, experienced and proactive Executive Assistant to support the dynamic and fast-paced needs of the Chief Education Officer of a leading national Academy group based in the Manchester. This is a key role requiring someone who thrives under pressure, can manage multiple priorities to tight deadlines and has a genuine passion for working within the public sector. The successful candidate will be based in one of the Manchester academies with the requirement to be able to travel nationwide weekly with the CEO.

Location: Manchester

Salary: £40,000 per annum (pro rata). Full time office based

Contract: 3 month FTC

Consultant: Charley@lilyshippen.co.uk – Please direct all enquires relating to this role to Charley

This is an exciting new role that presents an incredible opportunity for someone to take charge and help shape the direction of the company’s operations. As EA to the CEO, you will act as the right hand to the CEO, managing their schedule, prioritising tasks and ensuring seamless day-to-day operations.

EA Responsibilities:

• Executive Support: Provide high-level administrative support to the CEO, managing their schedule, meetings and communication and introducing systems to benefit the smooth running of the team. Coordinate and prioritise emails, phone calls and meeting requests on behalf of the CEO. Assist in the preparation of reports and documents for meetings and events.
• Travel & Logistics: Organise and accompany the CEO on regular national travel
• Meeting Coordination: Prepare agendas, ensure all materials are ready for CEO meetings, and take detailed notes during meetings as necessary. Track follow-up actions from meetings and ensure timely completion. Organise and manage events, including executive meetings, team-building sessions and corporate events.
• General Administrative Duties: Provide support with office management, ensuring the CEO\’s office is organised and equipped with necessary supplies. Handle confidential information with integrity and discretion.
• Other Duties as Required: Take on any ad-hoc tasks to ensure the smooth running of the business and support the CEO in their day-to-day responsibilities.

Requirements:

• Proven experience as a career Executive Assistant working within the education or public.
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to multitask and prioritise effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.
• High level of initiative and ability to work independently.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and familiarity with cloud-based tools (e.g., Google Workspace, Zoom).
• Mac OS proficiency an advantage but not essential.

Skills & Qualifications:

• Proven 3 years + experience as an Executive Assistant within education or the public sector.

Skills:

• Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.
• Adaptability to shifting priorities and changing business needs.
• Enthusiastic, flexible and approachable demeanour.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate with various teams.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to remain professionally calm within an ever-changing environment.
• Ability to work under pressure while maintaining professionalism.

Attributes:

• A proactive, can-do attitude with adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
• High level of discretion and confidentiality.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships at all levels.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a fast-paced and leader in the sector. With such a strong focus on growth and innovation, our client provides an exciting setting for an exceptional EA looking to gain further experience in fast paced environment. This role is perfect for someone eager work within the education sector.

Lily Shippen is a leading recruitment agency, specialising in executive support and business support recruitment. We connect top talent with exceptional opportunities across the UK and internationally. Our expertise spans Executive Assistant, Personal Assistant, Office Manager, Chief of Staff, and HR recruitment, offering tailored solutions for businesses across various industries.

We recruit for permanent, temporary, and fixed-term contract roles across London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Cheshire, and beyond. Whether you’re seeking a new opportunity or looking to hire top talent, we’re here to help. If you’re an experienced Executive Assistant looking for a new challenge in a strategic, data-driven role, we would love to hear from you.