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Executive Assistant to Director
Job Title: Executive Assistant to Director
Location: Manchester
Salary: Up to £40,000
Overview:
As Executive Assistant to the Director, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth and effective operation of a high-profile research institute supported by a well-known charity. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced, highly organised Executive Assistant to work at the heart of a mission-driven organisation committed to scientific excellence and global impact.
You will act as a key point of contact for a broad range of internal and external stakeholders, including scientific leaders, strategic partners, funders, and senior management. The role involves managing a complex and fast-paced diary, coordinating national and international engagements, arranging travel and meetings, and ensuring the Director is fully prepared for all commitments.
This is a highly visible position requiring exceptional professionalism, discretion, and organisational skills. You will thrive in a dynamic environment where priorities can change rapidly, and where attention to detail, adaptability, and a proactive approach are essential.
As Executive Assistant, you will provide high-level administrative and operational support, handle sensitive information with the utmost confidentiality, and contribute to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the Director’s office and the wider institute.
Main Duties
Manage the Director’s complex and demanding calendar, ensuring seamless coordination of meetings, travel, and external engagements.
Prepare high-quality agendas, briefing papers, reports, and presentations for internal and external meetings.
Serve as a primary point of contact for key stakeholders, including board members, funders, partner organisations, and international collaborators.
Monitor, prioritise, and manage a high volume of email correspondence, taking appropriate action or delegating as required.
Organise complex domestic and international travel arrangements, maintaining detailed and accurate itineraries.
Provide comprehensive administrative support to the Director, including expense processing, document control, and project coordination.
Coordinate formal visits and events, ensuring a consistently high standard of professionalism and hospitality.
Support the Director’s engagement in collaborative projects across academia, healthcare, government, and the charity sector.
Maintain strict confidentiality while upholding the highest standards of integrity, discretion, and professionalism.
Knowledge and Experience
Essential:
Experience within EA / PA support
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).
Proactive thinking, the ability to work independently, prioritise tasks and meet tight deadlines.
Experience or confidence when speaking in front of high-stake holdersDesirable:
Ability to pick things up quickly
Knowledge of Scientific industry or non- profit organisation
Familiarity with charity or non-profit organisations.
Drive – always pushing to achieve the best/ going the extra mile.Benefits:
32 days annual leave plus bank holidays
Strong Progression Opportunity
Employee wellbeing support and EAP
Out of work team bonding exercises
Enhanced pension scheme
Family-friendly and flexible working policies
Access to health and fitness facilities
On-site cafés, discounts, and cultural venues
£35000 – £40000/annum 32 days annual leave plus bank holid