Executive Assistant to Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) in Slough

Are you an exceptional Executive Assistant with experience supporting C-suite leaders in the life sciences, biotech, pharmaceutical, or scientific R&D sector? We're seeking a highly organised, proactive, and commercially minded Executive Assistant to become a trusted partner to a Chief Scientific Officer. This is far more than a traditional EA role. You'll be a key strategic support, enabling executive focus, driving operational excellence, and acting as a central point of coordination across internal and external stakeholders.

The Opportunity

Working closely with the CSO, you will manage a diverse range of responsibilities, ensuring seamless day-to-day operations while anticipating challenges and proactively delivering solutions. You'll operate with the highest levels of professionalism, discretion, and integrity while supporting an executive operating at the forefront of scientific innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Proactive management of a complex and demanding diary and calendar
• Strategic inbox management, prioritisation and drafting correspondence
• Acting as the primary point of contact for senior stakeholders and external partners
• Coordinating internal and external meetings, events, board activities and visitor management
• Preparing agendas, presentations, board papers and meeting documentation
• Taking accurate minutes, tracking actions and ensuring follow-through
• Managing complex domestic and international travel arrangements and expenses
• Supporting project coordination, monitoring deadlines and ensuring timely delivery
• Building strong relationships across executive leadership teams and stakeholder groups
• Managing highly confidential information with absolute discretion
• Anticipating the needs of the CSO and providing proactive support before issues arise
• Driving continuous improvement in administrative processes and ways of working

What We're Looking For

Essential Experience

• Significant experience supporting a CSO, Board Director, or other senior executive in a scientific, biotech, pharmaceutical, or R&D environment
• Advanced Microsoft Office skills, including PowerPoint, Excel and Word
• Experience preparing board packs, presentations and executive reports
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Teams, SharePoint and digital collaboration tools
• Excellent written communication and correspondence drafting skills
• Outstanding organisational and time management abilities
• Proven experience managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Strong project coordination and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to exercise sound judgement and make effective decisions independently
• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to quality

Personal Attributes

• Proactive, resourceful and highly self-motivated
• Calm and resilient under pressure
• Strong emotional intelligence and relationship-building skills
• Professional, positive and adaptable
• Trusted with sensitive and confidential information
• Solutions-focused with the confidence to challenge and improve existing processes

Desirable

• Experience within life sciences, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals or scientific research organisations
• Formal Executive Assistant training or professional qualifications
• Experience using Board Governance software such as Diligent

Why Apply?

This is an opportunity to work alongside a senior scientific leader, contribute to meaningful innovation, and play a critical role in supporting work that has the potential to improve lives globally. If you're an experienced Executive Assistant who thrives in a dynamic, mission-driven environment and enjoys operating as a true business partner, we'd love to hear from you.