At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the Managing Director with high-level admin and strategic coordination.
- Company: Join Zaytoun, a social enterprise dedicated to supporting Palestinian communities through fair trade.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £40,000, flexible hybrid working, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team and contribute to meaningful change.
- Qualifications: Experience as an EA or PA, excellent organisational and communication skills.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 56000 £ per year.
Executive Assistant to the Managing Director (Full-time, Fixed-term)
Location: Chancery Lane, London (mainly in office, some hybrid working possible).
Contract: 6-month fixed term (with potential to extend)
Starting: As soon as possible
Salary: Starting at £40,000 (depending on experience)
Hours: Full-time, Monday–Friday
Reports to: Managing Director
About Zaytoun
Zaytoun is a UK social enterprise established in 2004 to support the resilience of Palestinian communities through fair trade. 100% of our profits are reinvested into advancing this mission.
Our range includes award-winning olive oil, Medjoul dates, za’atar, grains, and a skin care range. We’re a small, collaborative team who care about Palestine, good food, and justice.
The role
We’re looking for an exceptional Executive Assistant to work closely with our Managing Director, providing both high-level administrative support and strategic coordination.
This role is about partnership: you’ll help ensure the MD’s time is focused where it matters most, while keeping projects, meetings, and priorities running smoothly. You’ll balance detail with the bigger picture, acting as a trusted point of connection between the MD, the team, and external partners.
It’s a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference – both to the smooth running of a mission-driven organisation and to the impact Zaytoun delivers.
Executive support
- Manage the MD’s diary, inbox, travel, and meeting logistics
- Draft and proof correspondence, reports and other written materials
- Prepare agendas, take minutes, and follow up on actions for board and committee meetings
Project tracking & research
- Monitor deadlines and help the MD track progress on priorities
- Conduct research and prepare background notes to support decision-making
- Ensure smooth information flow between the MD, staff, board, and external partners including customers and suppliers
General support
- Act as a filter for incoming communication, drafting or signposting responses and flagging what needs the MD’s attention.
- Handle confidential matters with discretion and professionalism
- Provide ad hoc support for events, communications, and other projects as needed
This list is indicative, not exhaustive – we’re a small team and everyone helps where needed.
What you’ll bring
- Proven experience as an EA, PA, or similar role supporting a senior leader
- Outstanding organisational skills, detail-oriented, able to manage competing priorities
- Excellent communication skills – written and verbal
- Discretion, sound judgement, and the ability to handle sensitive matters
- A proactive, solutions-focused approach; able to anticipate needs
- Confidence working independently while collaborating effectively in a small, dynamic team
- Ease with digital tools and technology, including AI – to streamline tasks, research, and communication
- Familiarity with social media platforms, especially Instagram, LinkedIn (ideal but not essential)
- Enthusiasm for our mission
What you’ll get
- A pivotal role working in close partnership with the MD, with exposure to both strategy and operations
- The opportunity to contribute to an award-winning social enterprise with a unique and urgent mission
- A supportive, collaborative workplace where your work has visible impact
- Flexible hybrid working arrangements
How to apply
Please send your CV and a short cover note (why this role, why Zaytoun, and your earliest start date) to jobs@zaytoun.uk with the subject line Executive Assistant.
We will review applications on a rolling basis and may close early if we find the right person.
Eligibility: Applicants must be resident in, and have the right to work in, the UK.
Equal opportunities: Zaytoun is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and experiences.
Executive Assistant employer: Zaytoun
Contact Detail:
Zaytoun Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections on LinkedIn or even in person. Let them know you're on the hunt for an Executive Assistant role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities at Zaytoun or similar organisations.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Zaytoun’s mission and values. Show us that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you genuinely care about supporting Palestinian communities through fair trade. Tailor your answers to reflect how your skills align with our goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As an Executive Assistant, you'll need to be clear and concise. Try mock interviews with friends or family, focusing on how you can manage competing priorities and support the MD effectively.
✨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 us you’re serious about joining our team and making a difference at Zaytoun.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Note: Your cover note is your chance to shine! Make sure to explain why this role excites you and why Zaytoun's mission resonates with you. Keep it concise but impactful – we want to see your passion!
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send the same CV for every job. Highlight your experience that directly relates to being an Executive Assistant. We’re looking for those outstanding organisational skills and attention to detail, so make sure they stand out!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since communication is key in this role, ensure your written application reflects your excellent communication skills. Proofread everything to avoid any typos – we love detail-oriented candidates!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications better and ensures you don’t miss any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zaytoun
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you research Zaytoun and its mission. Understand their products and how they support Palestinian communities through fair trade. This will show your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare specific examples from your past experience that highlight your organisational skills and ability to manage competing priorities. Think about times when you successfully supported a senior leader or handled sensitive matters with discretion.
✨Be Proactive
During the interview, demonstrate your proactive approach by discussing how you anticipate needs and solve problems. Share instances where you took the initiative to streamline processes or improve communication within a team.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions to ask at the end of the interview. Inquire about the MD's priorities, the team dynamics, or how success is measured in this role. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the position is the right fit for you.