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- Tasks: Support senior managers in improving outcomes for vulnerable children and families.
- Company: Join Portsmouth City Council, dedicated to making a difference in the community.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for personal development.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a focus on safeguarding and professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team making a real impact on children's lives.
- Qualifications: Experience in PA roles, strong IT skills, and excellent communication abilities.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
Overview
We are seeking a proactive and highly organised Personal Assistant to support our Heads of Children and Families Services and the Deputy Director of Children\’s Services.
This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a passionate team dedicated to improving outcomes for Portsmouth\’s most vulnerable children and young people.
The Service
The Children and Families Services team supports Portsmouth\’s most vulnerable children and young people, ensuring they lead safer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives. The team also acts as the corporate parent for Looked After Children.
The Role
You will provide a high level of Personal Assistant support to the Heads of Children and Families and the Deputy Director of Children\’s Service. As part of a small team of Personal Assistants to the Senior Management Team, you will work together to ensure the smooth running of the day-to-day administration for the Senior Managers of Children and Families Services.
Key Responsibilities
- Panel & Meeting Support: Administer weekly Placement Decision-Making Panel; manage agendas, minutes, and actions.
- FOI Coordination: Solely manage Freedom of Information requests for Children\’s Social Care.
- Diary & Email Management: Proactively manage calendars and correspondence for senior managers.
- Communication: Liaise with internal/external stakeholders, including Council Members.
- Ofsted Support: Coordinate inspection preparation and regulation reports.
- Finance & Recruitment: Raise purchase orders, process invoices, assist with recruitment and induction.
- Workshops: Facilitate learning sessions for staff on regulatory changes
- Drafting and typing letters and maintaining paper and electronic files.
- Professional Representation: Maintain a professional image internally and externally.
The ideal candidate
You will have:
- Experience supporting senior managers in a PA/secretarial role
- Strong IT skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
- Excellent literacy, numeracy, and minute-taking skills
- Strong communication and interpersonal abilities
- Diary and workload management skills
- High attention to detail and confidentiality
- Awareness of GDPR and safeguarding
- Resilience in handling sensitive information
- Customer service focus and empathetic approach
Please ensure that you read the full job profile attached for the details and expectations of this role, paying particular attention the section \’Who is the person\’ as you will need to refer to this when completing your Personal statement.
Hybrid Working and Attendance
Hybrid Working – Attendance requirements to the designated workplace. Initially working from Civic Offices until fully competent to progress hybrid working.
Interview date
Interview date: 21st October 2025
Application process
We anonymise applications during application & shortlisting to ensure only relevant information is considered. As part of your application, we ask that you complete a personal statement, demonstrating how you meet the requirements of the job against each of the points described in the \’Who is the Person\’ section of the Job Profile, using examples from your experience or transferable skills.
We are a disability confident employer and have an Armed Forces Covenant. We are committed to offering an interview to all those candidates that qualify under one of our commitments and meet the minimum criteria; however, for roles that receive a large number of applications, this is not always possible, and we will select the candidates that best meet the minimum criteria.
You will need to demonstrate that you have the Right to Work in the UK. No post will be offered without it.
About Portsmouth City Council
What we can offer you:
Portsmouth City Council is a unique organisation, committed to making a difference, and is guided by core values that set who we are as people, what we stand for, and how we act.
Read more about working at Portsmouth City Council and our benefits on our careers portal homepage: Careers Portal – Find jobs with Portsmouth City Council
Portsmouth City Council is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and young people, and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
DBS Disclosure at Enhanced level will be required prior to any offer of employment and this post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
Every post is subject to PCC and Portsmouth Safeguarding Children Partnership safer recruitment procedures.
Should you require any support in completing the application form please contact recruit@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or call the recruitment team on 023 92 616800
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Personal Assistant to Head of Service employer: Portsmouth City Council
Contact Detail:
Portsmouth City Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Personal Assistant to Head of Service
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to Portsmouth City Council. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you that Personal Assistant role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the team and their work. Knowing about the Children and Families Services will show your genuine interest and help you stand out as a candidate who’s ready to make a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a Personal Assistant, you'll need to liaise with various stakeholders. Mock interviews with friends or family can help you articulate your thoughts clearly and confidently.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and the amazing team you could be joining.
We think you need these skills to ace Personal Assistant to Head of Service
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Profile Carefully: Before you start your application, take a good look at the job profile. It’s crucial to understand what they’re looking for, especially in the 'Who is the Person' section. This will help you tailor your personal statement effectively.
Showcase Your Experience: When writing your personal statement, make sure to highlight your relevant experience. Use specific examples that demonstrate how you meet the key responsibilities and skills mentioned in the job description. We want to see how you can bring value to the team!
Keep It Professional Yet Personal: While it’s important to maintain a professional tone, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. Show your passion for supporting vulnerable children and young people, as this role is all about making a difference in their lives.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate, so you won’t have any hassle!
How to prepare for a job interview at Portsmouth City Council
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Personal Assistant to the Head of Service. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks mentioned in the job description, such as managing diaries, coordinating meetings, and handling sensitive information. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
As a Personal Assistant, being organised is crucial. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed multiple tasks or projects simultaneously. Highlight your attention to detail and how you ensure smooth operations, especially when it comes to diary management and meeting support.
✨Communicate Effectively
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. During the interview, practice clear and concise communication. Be ready to discuss how you've liaised with various stakeholders in previous roles, and provide examples of how you’ve handled challenging conversations or situations with professionalism.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Safeguarding
Given the nature of the role, it's important to show your understanding of safeguarding principles. Be prepared to discuss your awareness of GDPR and how you handle sensitive information. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.