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 holders

Desirable:

• 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