Executive Assistant

Aston University; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 31,000 - 37,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK university is seeking an Executive Assistant to provide top-tier administrative support. The role involves diary management, document handling, and assisting senior management, requiring excellent communication skills and substantial administrative experience. Ideal candidates should have a degree and a proactive attitude. The position is full-time and permanent, with a salary range of £31,236 to £36,636 per annum, and offers numerous benefits including training opportunities and generous annual leave.

Benefits

30 days annual leave plus bank holidays

On-site gym and pool

Training and development opportunities

Everyday discounts for various activities

Qualifications

• Substantial relevant PA and administrative experience supporting a senior executive.
• Ability to multi-task and demonstrate a 'can do' attitude.
• Interest and enthusiasm for AI and its application in the office environment.

Responsibilities

• Effective diary management and document/email management.
• Minute-taking and general administrative tasks.
• Support to Deputy PVCs and senior members of the Research & Enterprise portfolio.

Skills

Excellent interpersonal skills

Organisational skills

Written communication skills

Oral communication skills

IT skills

Education

Degree level or equivalent

Job description

EA/PA/Admin Support (PVC R&E)

Location: Aston University John Cadbury House

Salary: £31,236 to £36,636 per annum

Grade: Grade 07

Contract Type: Permanent

Basis: Full Time

Closing Date: 23.59 hours GMT on Sunday 25 January 2026

Interview Date: Friday 13 February 2026

Reference: 1545-25

Release Date: Thursday 01 January 2026

Overview

Aston University's Pro-Vice-Chancellor Research and Enterprise is seeking a hard-working and astute individual to provide executive support at the highest level in the role of Executive Assistant.

Key duties

Key duties include effective diary management, document and email management, minute-taking and general administrative tasks associated with the seniority of the post. An important element of the role involves effective communication with University staff at all levels of the organisation, external colleagues and professional bodies. The post-holder will also be providing support to the Deputy PVCs and other senior members of the Research & Enterprise portfolio.

Qualifications and skills

The post-holder should have substantial, relevant PA and administrative experience, ideally gained from supporting a senior executive and should also demonstrate a clear understanding of the role of a senior manager in higher education. Excellent interpersonal, organisational, written and oral communication skills are essential for this role, as is the ability to multi-task and demonstrate a 'can do' attitude. The post-holder will be required to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate a calm, customer-focused, professional approach to all aspects of this busy and demanding role. The post-holder will be highly organised with excellent interpersonal skills. Applicants should be educated to degree level or equivalent, have substantial relevant experience, and excellent IT skills, administrative and organisational abilities. An interest and enthusiasm for AI and its application within the office environment, would be an advantage.

Organisation and values

With the Aston 2030 Strategy fully embedded into life at Aston, Aston University is a forward-thinking university, placing people at the heart of the organisation, giving individuals the opportunity to reach their full potential while working at the University. Aston University is committed to the principles of the Athena SWAN Charter, recognised by a silver award. We pride ourselves on our vibrant, friendly, supportive working environment and collaborative atmosphere.

What we offer

• Aston University is a dynamic and vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre, which has excellent transport links via bus or train.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and a further 13 days bank holiday and University Closure days.
• Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
• Great family-friendly policies.
• On-site gym and pool with discounted staff membership available
• Further information on our Benefits and Rewards can be found here.

For any informal enquiries please contact Clare Noakes (Head of Executive Support at [e-mail]).

Further details

Job Details
University Information

Guidance on AI-Assisted Applications

While we cannot prevent applicants from using AI tools to support their application, we ask that all submissions reflect your own experience, achievements, and motivations. We want to understand what you personally bring to the role, so please ensure your application represents your own voice and capabilities.

We recognise the value of flexible working. Please contact the recruiting manager to discuss what flexible working options are available for particular roles.

If you require the job details document or an application form in an alternative format please contact the recruitment team at [e-mail]