Executive Assistant to the Director

Description:

Aspire Recruitment is seeking an experienced and proactive Executive Assistant to the Director for a full-time, permanent position based in Manchester. This vital role supports the Director of a leading research centre, ensuring smooth day-to-day operations and seamless executive support in a fast-paced academic or clinical environment.

This position is ideal for a detail-oriented individual who thrives under pressure, handles sensitive information with discretion, and has a track record of supporting senior-level staff. The successful candidate will manage high-level administrative functions including complex diary and inbox coordination, travel logistics, meeting documentation, and stakeholder liaison while also assisting the broader admin team on events and centre operations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide comprehensive administrative support to the Director, managing their diary, emails, travel arrangements, and schedules.

• Coordinate meetings by preparing agendas, minutes, tracking actions, and ensuring timely follow-up.

• Serve as the first point of contact for the Director’s office, fielding enquiries with professionalism and confidentiality.

• Arrange domestic and international travel, including booking transport and accommodation, and preparing detailed itineraries.

• Maintain accurate and confidential records, update CVs, biosketches, and track publications.

• Organise and support Centre visits, strategic sessions, and key stakeholder meetings including those involving VIP guests.

• Assist internal communication and alignment with other departments and research teams.

• Contribute to the overall administrative function by helping with onboarding, filing, procurement, and payment processes.

What We’re Looking For:

• Proven experience as a Personal or Executive Assistant, particularly supporting senior leadership.

• Exceptional organisational skills and the ability to multitask under tight deadlines.

• Strong written and verbal communication abilities, with an eye for detail and accuracy.

• Discretion in handling sensitive and confidential matters.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook, and Microsoft Teams.

• Calm, adaptable, and proactive mindset.

• Ideally experienced in a research, academic, or clinical environment.

• Educated to degree level or equivalent relevant experience.

What You’ll Get:

• A competitive salary ranging from £32,000 to £36,000 per year.

• A permanent, full-time position (37 hours per week).

• The opportunity to work at the core of a highly respected research centre.

• Supportive and collaborative work environment.