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- Tasks: Support the Director by managing their calendar, travel, and stakeholder communications.
- Company: Join a high-profile research institute backed by a renowned charity focused on scientific excellence.
- Benefits: Enjoy 32 days of leave, flexible working, wellness support, and discounts at on-site cafés.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team making a global impact in science and research.
- Qualifications: Experience as an EA/PA in a fast-paced environment with strong communication and IT skills.
- Other info: Opportunity to work closely with leaders in academia, healthcare, and charity sectors.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 48000 £ per year.
Job Title: Executive Assistant to Director
Location: On-site – Manchester
Salary: £40,000 DOE
Overview:
As Executive Assistant to the Director, you will play a central role in ensuring the smooth and efficient running of a high-profile research institute supported by a well-known charity. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and highly organised professional to work at the heart of a mission-driven organisation focused on scientific excellence and global impact.
The Executive Assistant will act as a key point of contact for a wide range of internal and external stakeholders, including scientific leaders, strategic partners, funders, and senior management. You will manage a complex and dynamic calendar, coordinate national and international engagements, organise travel and meetings, and ensure the Director is fully prepared for all commitments.
This is a highly visible role requiring professionalism, discretion, and exceptional organisational skills. You will thrive in a fast-paced environment where priorities can shift quickly, and where attention to detail and a proactive mindset are essential.
As Executive Assistant, you will provide high-level support, manage sensitive information with confidentiality, and contribute to the operational success and efficiency of the Director’s office and the wider institute.
Main Duties
- Manage the Director’s busy calendar, ensuring smooth coordination of meetings, travel, and external engagements.
- Prepare agendas, briefing documents, reports, and presentations for internal and external meetings.
- Act as a key point of contact for stakeholders, including board members, funders, partner organisations, and international collaborators.
- Monitor and prioritise a high volume of email correspondence, taking appropriate action or delegating as necessary.
- Organise complex travel arrangements and maintain detailed itineraries.
- Provide full administrative support to the Director, including expense processing, document management, and project coordination.
- Coordinate formal visits and events, ensuring a high level of hospitality and professionalism.
- Support the Director’s involvement in collaborative projects across academia, health care, government, and charity sectors.
- Maintain strict confidentiality and uphold the highest standards of integrity and discretion.
Knowledge and Experience
Essential:
- Proven experience as an EA/PA supporting a senior leader in a fast-paced, high-profile organisation.
- Highly organised with excellent problem-solving abilities.
- Professional, discreet, and confident when handling sensitive information.
- Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong IT proficiency, particularly with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams).
- Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks, and meet tight deadlines.
- Experience coordinating multiple stakeholders and managing high-level meetings and events.
Desirable:
- Experience in the academic, clinical, or scientific sector.
- Familiarity with charity or non-profit organisations.
- Project management experience.
Benefits:
- 32 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Employee wellbeing support and EAP
- University enhanced pension scheme
- Family-friendly and flexible working policies
- Access to health and fitness facilities
- On-site cafés, discounts, and cultural venues
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Executive Assistant employer: Pertemps
Contact Detail:
Pertemps Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the academic and charity sectors. Attend relevant events or webinars where you can meet potential colleagues or stakeholders, as this will help you understand the culture and expectations of the organisation.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges and trends in the scientific research field. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the mission of the organisation.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your organisational skills by managing a mock calendar or planning a complex event. This hands-on experience will prepare you for the demands of the role and give you concrete examples to discuss during your interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by engaging with the organisation on social media. Comment on their posts or share relevant content, which can help you get noticed and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience as an Executive Assistant or Personal Assistant. Focus on your organisational skills, ability to manage complex calendars, and any experience with high-profile stakeholders.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your understanding of the role and the organisation's mission. Emphasise your discretion, professionalism, and how your skills align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, specifically mention your proficiency with Microsoft Office and any project management experience. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed multiple tasks and stakeholders in previous roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pertemps
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
As an Executive Assistant, your ability to manage a busy calendar and coordinate multiple tasks is crucial. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experiences where you successfully organised complex schedules or events.
✨Demonstrate Discretion and Professionalism
This role requires handling sensitive information with confidentiality. During the interview, highlight situations where you maintained professionalism and discretion, especially when dealing with high-profile stakeholders.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in fast-paced environments. Think of scenarios where you had to prioritise tasks quickly or adapt to changing circumstances, and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Organisation
Research the charity and its mission before the interview. Understanding their goals and recent projects will allow you to tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in contributing to their success.
