Executive Assistant in Oxford

Executive Assistant in Oxford

Oxford Full-Time 35681 - 41636 ÂŁ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support the Chief Digital Information Officer in a fast-paced, high-profile environment.
  • Company: Join the prestigious University of Oxford, ranked the world's leading university for ten years.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 38 days of annual leave, flexible working, and a generous family leave scheme.
  • Why this job: Be part of transformative change and innovation at a world-class institution.
  • Qualifications: Experience in executive support, excellent communication, and strong organisational skills required.
  • Other info: Build relationships across the University while contributing to groundbreaking research.

The predicted salary is between 35681 - 41636 ÂŁ per year.

Are you an accomplished Executive Assistant who excels at supporting senior leaders in a fast-paced environment? Take on a pivotal role within the Vice-Chancellor and Registrars’ Office at the University of Oxford, supporting the strategic leadership that drives the University’s digital and information agenda. In this fast-paced and high-profile position, you’ll provide exceptional executive support to the Chief Digital Information Officer (CDIO), helping to deliver innovation and transformative change across the University.

Location: University Offices, Wellington Square, Oxford

Salary: £35,681 – £41,636 per annum

Contract: Full Time, Permanent

About Us

Spanning the historic streets of the city of dreaming spires, the University of Oxford has been ranked the world’s leading university for ten consecutive years. A place where centuries of tradition meet world-changing innovation, we offer you the chance to shape the future while working in an inspiring environment that promotes excellence. Here, you’ll contribute to ground-breaking research that tackles global challenges – from advancing sustainability to pioneering healthcare solutions – and join a diverse, inclusive community that champions your wellbeing, development, and aspirations. Apply now to become part of our extraordinary legacy.

The Vice-Chancellor and Registrars’ Office forms part of University Administration and Services (UAS), supporting the University’s strategic leadership and operational excellence. The CDIO’s portfolio drives the University’s digital strategy and oversees the delivery of information technology and data services that underpin the University’s world-class teaching, research, and administration.

What We Offer

  • 38 days of annual leave (inclusive of public holidays) to support your wellbeing, with the option to purchase up to 10 extra days and additional leave after long service.
  • One of the most generous family leave schemes in UK higher education, offering up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity and adoption leave, plus 12 weeks of full-pay paternity/partner leave.
  • A commitment to hybrid and flexible working to suit your lifestyle.
  • An excellent contributory pension scheme.
  • Affordable and sustainable commuting options, including a cycle loan scheme, discounted bus travel, and season ticket loans.
  • Access to a vibrant community through our social, cultural, and sports clubs.

About the Role

This is a fast-paced and rewarding role where you’ll provide professional and proactive support to the CDIO, ensuring their time is managed effectively and their office runs smoothly. You’ll handle a wide range of confidential and high-profile matters, exercise sound judgement, and act as a trusted partner to senior colleagues across the University. You’ll manage the CDIO’s complex diary, prioritise competing demands, prepare briefings, draft correspondence, and coordinate key meetings and events. You’ll also oversee office systems and procedures, liaise with internal and external stakeholders, and ensure the CDIO is fully equipped for every engagement. Reporting to the Head of the Registrar’s Office and working closely with senior administrative staff across UAS, you’ll build strong relationships, maintain discretion, and play an integral role in enabling effective leadership of the University’s digital transformation portfolio.

About You

  • Significant experience of providing personal/executive support to a senior officer.
  • Demonstrable experience of diary management, including making complex travel arrangements.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills with an ability to build relationships with people at all levels, internal and external to the University.
  • High levels of literacy and excellent communication skills, including the ability to draft correspondence, take minutes/meeting notes, and produce well-researched notes.
  • Strong organisational and time-management abilities; ability to self-motivate; manage a range of tasks in parallel; and reprioritise effectively in response to change.
  • Ability to solve problems and work under pressure while maintaining accuracy.
  • Ability to act with high levels of discretion and personal responsibility when dealing with confidential and sensitive matters.
  • Conscientious and proactive approach to work, with the ability to work well as part of a small team.
  • Excellent IT skills, including as a minimum Microsoft Office packages.

Application Process

To apply, please upload: A covering letter/supporting statement, Your CV, The details of two referees. The closing date for applications is 12 noon on Friday 21 November. Interviews will take place week commencing 8 December, and will be held in person.

Executive Assistant in Oxford employer: University of Oxford

The University of Oxford is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment where you can thrive as an Executive Assistant. With generous benefits such as 38 days of annual leave, a commitment to flexible working, and access to a vibrant community, you will be part of a prestigious institution that values your professional growth and wellbeing while contributing to transformative change in higher education.
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Contact Detail:

University of Oxford Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Executive Assistant in Oxford

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Oxford on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the role and help you stand out in the application process.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for the interview by researching the Vice-Chancellor and Registrars’ Office. Understand their digital strategy and think about how your skills as an Executive Assistant can support their goals. We want to see that you’re genuinely interested!

✨Tip Number 3

Practice common interview questions, especially those related to diary management and handling confidential matters. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or family to boost your confidence and refine your answers.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our amazing team at the University of Oxford.

We think you need these skills to ace Executive Assistant in Oxford

Diary Management
Travel Arrangements
Interpersonal Skills
Communication Skills
Minute Taking
Organisational Skills
Time Management
Problem-Solving Skills
Discretion
Proactive Approach
Teamwork
Microsoft Office Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your experience supporting senior leaders and how it aligns with the role at the University of Oxford. Keep it concise, engaging, and tailored to the job description.

Showcase Your Skills in Your CV: When updating your CV, focus on your organisational and communication skills. Use bullet points to clearly outline your relevant experience, especially in diary management and handling confidential matters. We want to see how you can bring value to the CDIO!

Be Professional but Authentic: While it's important to maintain professionalism, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. We appreciate authenticity, so feel free to express your passion for supporting digital transformation and innovation in your application.

Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out!

How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford

✨Know Your Role Inside Out

Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the Executive Assistant role and its responsibilities. Familiarise yourself with the specific tasks mentioned in the job description, like diary management and preparing briefings, so you can confidently discuss how your experience aligns with these requirements.

✨Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills

As an Executive Assistant, building relationships is key. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with senior leaders or managed stakeholder communications in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to connect with people at all levels, which is crucial for this role.

✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Prowess

Be ready to discuss your time-management strategies and how you handle competing demands. You might even want to share a specific instance where you successfully managed multiple tasks under pressure, showcasing your ability to prioritise effectively.

✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions

At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Use this opportunity to show your interest in the University’s digital strategy and how you can contribute to it. Asking insightful questions not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.

Executive Assistant in Oxford
University of Oxford
Location: Oxford
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