Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor with high-level administrative tasks and stakeholder engagement.
- Company: Join one of the UK's top 30 universities, dedicated to education and research.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work environment with flexible working options and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a vibrant, inclusive setting while developing your skills in strategic leadership.
- Qualifications: Experience supporting senior executives, excellent organisational skills, and a good understanding of higher education.
- Other info: Attend an online Q&A session on 3rd July to learn more about the role.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Full Time and Permanent Role. The closing date for applications is 23.59 on 6th July 2025. Interviews: 14 July 2025. By reference to the applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship may be possible under the Skilled Worker Route. Applicants wishing to consider the SWR must ensure that they are able to meet the points requirement before applying.
Join one of the UK’s top 30 universities and play a pivotal role at the heart of strategic leadership. We’re seeking an Executive Assistant to provide high-level support to the Chancellor and Vice-Chancellor, helping to deliver the University’s mission to create a better world through education and research. Based at our beautiful Whiteknights campus, you’ll manage complex diaries, coordinate dinners and events, and lead internal and external engagement with senior stakeholders. As the first point of contact, you’ll also respond to varied correspondence, coordinate institutional initiatives, and VIP visits.
As The Successful Candidate, You Will Have:
- Substantial experience supporting senior executives at board level
- Excellent organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills
- Proven ability to manage complex diaries and sensitive information with discretion
- Strong judgement, initiative, and the ability to work independently
- Experience coordinating high-level external engagement and stakeholder relations
- A proactive, flexible, and collaborative approach to delivering outstanding service
- A good understanding of the UK higher education sector and strategic priorities
As an ambassador for the office and the University, you will work most of your time on campus and occasionally during evenings and weekends. This is a varied and interesting role and a unique opportunity to thrive in a dynamic, inclusive environment where your skills will make a real impact.
Want to find out more? There will be an opportunity to ask questions—anonymously if preferred—to help those considering applying feel better informed about the role. The session will take place on 3rd July at 11.00 AM. If you would like to attend, please contact us no later than 12 pm on 2nd July 2025. You will then be provided with a link to join the online session.
Informal contact details:
- Contact Name: Rachel Helsby
- Contact Head of Chancellor’s and Chancellor’s Office
- Alternative Contact: Ann Morgan
- Alternative Contact: Vice-Chancellor’s Executive Assistant
Additional Information:
The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time, and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
Vice Chancellors Executive Assistant employer: University of Reading
Contact Detail:
University of Reading Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Vice Chancellors Executive Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the university's mission and strategic priorities. Understanding their goals will help you articulate how your skills and experience align with their vision during any discussions or interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former Executive Assistants in higher education. They can provide valuable insights into the role and may even share tips on how to stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising responses to common questions for high-level support roles. Focus on scenarios that demonstrate your organisational skills, discretion, and ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships.
✨Tip Number 4
Take advantage of the opportunity to attend the Q&A session on 3rd July. This is a great chance to ask specific questions about the role and show your enthusiasm for the position directly to the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Vice Chancellors Executive Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Vice Chancellor's Executive Assistant position. Make note of the key responsibilities and required skills, as these will guide your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience supporting senior executives, managing complex diaries, and engaging with stakeholders. Use specific examples that demonstrate your organisational and communication skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your understanding of the university's mission and how your background aligns with their strategic priorities. Be sure to express your enthusiasm for the role and the unique contributions you can make.
Prepare for the Interview: If selected for an interview, prepare by researching the university's values and recent initiatives. Be ready to discuss how your skills and experiences make you a suitable candidate for this pivotal role.
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Reading
✨Research the University
Before your interview, take some time to understand the university's mission, values, and recent initiatives. This will help you align your answers with their strategic priorities and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your substantial experience supporting senior executives. Highlight specific examples where you've managed complex diaries or handled sensitive information, as this is crucial for the role of an Executive Assistant.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
As the first point of contact, strong communication skills are essential. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, and be ready to provide examples of how you've effectively engaged with senior stakeholders in the past.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This shows your enthusiasm for the position and helps you gain a better understanding of the expectations and culture within the Chancellor’s office.
