Executive Support Assistant

Description

Our local authority client is looking for an experienced Executive Support Assistant to join their Environment & Communities Executive Support Team on an initial 3-month assignment. You'll provide high-quality, proactive administrative support to the Executive Support Manager and Personal Assistants (PAs), helping them to focus on delivering direct support to senior Directors. Full-time, Monday–Friday - Hybrid working - 2-3 days in the office.

Key responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day administrative support to the Executive Support Manager and PA team
• Ensure key documents and returns are submitted on time, chasing responses where required (e.g. MEQs and other deadlines)
• Set up, maintain and monitor trackers, logs and action lists to support delivery across the service
• Support meetings and briefings for senior officers and councillors:
• Draft and circulate agendas
• Take and distribute minutes and action notes
• Follow up on agreed actions
• Prepare and manage documents for Councillor Briefings
• Approve and process timesheets in line with agreed procedures
• Raise and manage purchase orders and other financial/admin tasks using Council systems (e.g. procurement/finance platforms)
• Handle incoming enquiries (including from senior managers, councillors, MPs and the public) with tact, discretion and professionalism
• Maintain accurate records and data, updating systems and producing basic reports as required

Qualification – Essential

• GCSE Grade (or equivalent) in English Language and Mathematics.
• Level 3 / 4 NVQ in business administration
• Advanced Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, Outlook, Social Media and CRM.

Qualifications, Knowledge, and Experience Requirements - Criteria to be Evaluated at the Shortlisting Stage.

About you

• Strong background in administration / executive support / PA roles, ideally in a complex or political environment
• Confident in managing multiple deadlines and priorities with excellent attention to detail
• Strong IT skills, including MS Office (especially Outlook, Word and Excel); experience of corporate systems (e.g. SAP / SRM or similar) is an advantage
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills – comfortable dealing with senior stakeholders and elected members
• Highly organised, proactive and able to work both independently and as part of a busy team
• Comfortable handling sensitive information in line with data protection and council policies

Essential Compliance Requirements

• 3 Years References
• DBS Disclosure Required
• A pre-engagement screening is mandatory for this role. Please be prepared for this additional step in the application process.

Diamond Blaque Group, a leading public sector provider, is acting as an employment agency for this vacancy. Our organisation is deeply committed to fostering an environment of equal opportunity and diversity in the workplace.