Executive Assistant

Job Title:
Executive Assistant to Director
Location:
On-site – Manchester
Salary: £40,000 DOE

Overview:
As Executive Assistant to the Director, you will play a central role in ensuring the smooth and efficient running of a high-profile research institute supported by a well-known charity. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and highly organised professional to work at the heart of a mission-driven organisation focused on scientific excellence and global impact.

The Executive Assistant will act as a key point of contact for a wide range of internal and external stakeholders, including scientific leaders, strategic partners, funders, and senior management. You will manage a complex and dynamic calendar, coordinate national and international engagements, organise travel and meetings, and ensure the Director is fully prepared for all commitments.

This is a highly visible role requiring professionalism, discretion, and exceptional organisational skills. You will thrive in a fast-paced environment where priorities can shift quickly, and where attention to detail and a proactive mindset are essential.

As Executive Assistant, you will provide high-level support, manage sensitive information with confidentiality, and contribute to the operational success and efficiency of the Director’s office and the wider institute.

Main Duties

• Manage the Director’s busy calendar, ensuring smooth coordination of meetings, travel, and external engagements.
• Prepare agendas, briefing documents, reports, and presentations for internal and external meetings.
• Act as a key point of contact for stakeholders, including board members, funders, partner organisations, and international collaborators.
• Monitor and prioritise a high volume of email correspondence, taking appropriate action or delegating as necessary.
• Organise complex travel arrangements and maintain detailed itineraries.
• Provide full administrative support to the Director, including expense processing, document management, and project coordination.
• Coordinate formal visits and events, ensuring a high level of hospitality and professionalism.
• Support the Director’s involvement in collaborative projects across academia, health care, government, and charity sectors.
• Maintain strict confidentiality and uphold the highest standards of integrity and discretion.

Knowledge and Experience

Essential:

• Proven experience as an EA/PA supporting a senior leader in a fast-paced, high-profile organisation.
• Highly organised with excellent problem-solving abilities.
• Professional, discreet, and confident when handling sensitive information.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong IT proficiency, particularly with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams).
• Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks, and meet tight deadlines.
• Experience coordinating multiple stakeholders and managing high-level meetings and events.

Desirable:

• Experience in the academic, clinical, or scientific sector.
• Familiarity with charity or non-profit organisations.
• Project management experience.

Benefits:

• 32 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Employee wellbeing support and EAP
• University enhanced pension scheme
• Family-friendly and flexible working policies
• Access to health and fitness facilities
• On-site cafés, discounts, and cultural venues

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