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- Tasks: Lead the Group CEO's Office, managing operations and communications with discretion and professionalism.
- Company: Join Elevare Civic Education Group, a dynamic organisation focused on education and community impact.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension schemes, access to a company vehicle, and wellness programmes.
- Why this job: Be at the heart of strategic decision-making and influence change in education.
- Qualifications: Degree-level education and significant experience in business operations required.
- Other info: Hybrid working with travel across multiple sites; evening and weekend work may be needed.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
We are seeking a highly professional, discreet and proactive individual to oversee the smooth, efficient and strategic running of the Group CEO's Office. Reporting to the Group Chief of Staff and Group Chief Governance Officer, you will manage complex programmes of activity, ensure exemplary diary and communications management, and act as a trusted conduit between the Group CEO and both internal and external stakeholders. You will coordinate resources across multiple sites, produce high-quality briefings and communications, commission analysis ahead of key engagements, and support governance requirements, including preparation of Board materials and provide a professional and personal administrative support of the Group CEO.
What you do
- Own the day-to-day operations of the Group CEO's Office, ensuring timely, professional communications and information flow.
- Provide high-quality executive and personal assistant support, prioritising and optimising the CEO's diary to maximise impact.
- Lead coordination of resources, facilities, events and travel across College and Trust sites; oversee high-profile visits.
- Draft, review and manage internal/external communications, working closely with the Communications team, support appropriate use of social media.
- Prepare concise briefings and reports; commission and synthesise analysis ahead of meetings and public engagements.
- Track and deliver strategic projects for the Group CEO and Directorate, monitoring progress and risks.
- Promote a "can do" customer-service culture, mentoring Executive Assistants and embedding effective digital processes.
- Horizon-scan across FE, HE and schools' policy; summarise implications for the Group CEO and leadership teams.
- Support governance and compliance, coordinating Board papers and ensuring follow-through on decisions.
- Maintain strict confidentiality and professional judgement in handling sensitive matters.
- Oversee non-pay budgets and expenses for the CEO and Directorate.
- Contribute to CRM development for stakeholder engagement and using this for effective communications.
About you
- Degree-level education (or equivalent experience).
- Significant experience in business operations within an educational or similarly complex organisation.
- Proven track record engaging senior decision-makers and influencing change.
- Leadership of administration/secretarial teams with multi-site coordination.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; confident using social media professionally.
- Able to work in a highly pressurised environment and at pace.
- Able to use AI effectively and ethically and have innovative ways and ideas to embed in our systems and processes.
- Highly proficient with Microsoft 365 and adaptable to new systems.
- Methodical, organised and resilient – able to juggle multiple priorities and work to short deadlines.
- Able to move rapidly between detail and the big picture; present complex information clearly.
- Strong ambassadorial skills; discretion, integrity and confidentiality.
- Committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and the Nolan Principles of public life.
Working arrangements
This is a full-time role (1.0 FTE) based primarily at Bromley and Orpington with hybrid working and travelling across all school and college sites in SE London, Surrey and East Sussex. Evening, weekend and occasional overnight stays may be required to support the Group CEO's schedule. A UK Driving Licence is essential as travelling with and driving the Group CEO will be required.
Benefits
- We offer a very generous package of annual leave and provide up to two additional College closure days throughout the year, and also offer leave for volunteering.
- Excellent pension schemes are offered, including employer contributions (Teachers' Pension Scheme, Local Government Pension Scheme or Nest).
- Other benefits include:
- Access to a company vehicle
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme
- Free onsite parking
- Cycle to work/bike loan scheme
- Annual season ticket loan
- Access to the 'Discounts for Teachers' portal
- Free Wifi access in over 10,000 locations worldwide
- Eduroam
- Access to our onsite gym at Bromley, discounts in our in‑house restaurants and on our hair & beauty treatments
Equal Opportunities
London South East Colleges is fully committed to being an Equal Opportunities Employer, and creating a diverse and inclusive workspace, free from discrimination and harassment. We welcome and encourage applications from all, regardless of race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion/belief, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, parental status and/or marital/partnership status. As a Disability Confident‑Committed employer, we will offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum job role criteria. If you have accessibility needs and/or require any adjustments for the application and interview process, please email us at [email protected]. In line with KCSIE guidance we conduct social media checks for all candidates who are shortlisted for roles in order to ascertain their suitability to work with children and young adults. All staff are exempt from Section 4(2) of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, and subject to an "Enhanced" DBS check. Any offers of appointment may be withdrawn if these checks prove unsatisfactory.
Head of Private Office to the Group CEO in London employer: London South East Colleges
Contact Detail:
London South East Colleges Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Private Office to the Group CEO in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its values. Understand their mission and how you can contribute to it. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable with common questions. This will help you articulate your experience and skills confidently when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression and shows your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you on their radar as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Private Office to the Group CEO in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in business operations and administration. We want to see how you've engaged with senior decision-makers and influenced change in previous roles.
Tailor Your Communication: When drafting your application, use clear and concise language that reflects the professional tone of the job description. This is your chance to demonstrate your exceptional written communication skills!
Emphasise Your Organisational Skills: Given the nature of the role, it's crucial to showcase your ability to juggle multiple priorities and work under pressure. Share examples of how you've managed complex programmes or projects effectively.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at London South East Colleges
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the company’s mission and values. Understand their strategic goals and how the Group CEO's Office fits into the bigger picture. This will help you articulate how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since this role involves a lot of communication, be prepared to demonstrate your exceptional written and verbal skills. Bring examples of past communications you've crafted, and be ready to discuss how you manage information flow effectively.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to handle complex situations. Prepare scenarios where you successfully managed multiple priorities or coordinated resources across different sites. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Exude Professionalism and Discretion
This role requires a high level of discretion and professionalism. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve handled sensitive information in the past. Show them you understand the importance of confidentiality and can maintain integrity in all situations.
