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