Temporary Executive Assistant, HR & Operations Support in London

Location: Independent School in North London

Contract: Interim, 6 to 8 weeks initially

Daily Rate: £173 to £211 per day, plus holiday accrual

Start Date: Immediate / ASAP

Essential requirement: Enhanced DBS

We are seeking an experienced, highly organised, and professional individual to provide interim support to the Headteacher of a respected Independent School. This is a varied and hands-on role combining senior executive support with significant HR, operational, and safeguarding administration responsibilities. The initial assignment is expected to last 6 to 8 weeks, supporting a review of administrative structures and processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Executive Support
  • Provide high-level administrative and executive support to the Headteacher.
  • Manage a complex diary, scheduling meetings, appointments, and key school events.
  • Prepare correspondence, reports, presentations, agendas, and meeting documentation.
  • Coordinate meetings and ensure timely follow-up of actions and decisions.
  • Act as a professional and discreet point of contact for internal and external stakeholders.
• HR Administration & Employee Relations
  • Manage confidential HR administration and employee records.
  • Support the tracking and administration of employee relations matters.
  • Coordinate meetings relating to HR casework and monitor actions arising.
  • Provide recruitment administration support, including scheduling interviews, communicating with candidates, and maintaining recruitment records.
  • Handle highly sensitive and confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
• Operations & Organisational Review
  • Support the Headteacher with a review and potential restructure of the school's administrative function.
  • Assist with project coordination, documentation, and stakeholder communication relating to organisational change.
  • Ensure administrative processes are efficient, accurate, and appropriately documented.
• Safeguarding Administration
  • Provide substantial safeguarding administration support.
  • Maintain safeguarding records securely and accurately.
  • Support the coordination of safeguarding meetings, documentation, and actions.
  • Ensure compliance with school policies and statutory requirements relating to safeguarding and confidentiality.

About You

We are looking for someone who is:

• Experienced in providing senior executive or personal assistant support.
• Highly organised, proactive, and able to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Confident handling sensitive and confidential information.
• An excellent communicator with strong written and interpersonal skills.
• Comfortable working independently and exercising sound judgement.
• Experienced in HR administration, employee relations support, or operational administration.
• Ideally experienced within education, the public sector, healthcare, charity, or another regulated environment.

Essential Requirements

• A current Enhanced DBS certificate is essential.
• Proven experience in a senior administrative, executive support, HR, or operations role.
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office applications.
• Availability to commence assignment at short notice.