Executive Assistant

SOAS, University of London; London; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading institution in higher education seeks an Executive Assistant for the Provost Office. In this role, you will provide essential support to senior executives, manage schedules, and enhance college functions while enjoying numerous employee benefits, including generous holiday entitlement and flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

44 days of holiday

Flexible working arrangements

Generous pension scheme

Learning and development opportunities

Health and well-being initiatives

Enhanced family leave

Employee Assistance Programme

Discounted gym membership

Qualifications

• Experience supporting senior executives is desirable.
• Previous work in higher education is a plus.
• Ability to manage diaries and coordinate travel will be essential.

Responsibilities

• Provide executive assistance to Deans and the Registrar.
• Support planning activities and manage schedules.
• Liaise with external stakeholders and support meetings.

Skills

Diary management

Travel arrangement

Communication

Education

Experience in higher education

Job description

Job title: Executive Assistant

Department: Provost Office

Contract Type: One-year fixed term

Grade: 6

Salary: £35,318.57 - £41,687.57 per annum (Incl. of London Allowance)

Location: Bloomsbury

Hours: 35 hours per week (full time – 1.00 FTE) - some flexibility required

SOAS University of London is the leading Higher Education institution in Europe specialising in the study of Asia, Africa and the Near and Middle East. SOAS University of London is positioned to play a leadingrole in reimagining higher education globally, with a new strategic plan in place as the basis for the renewal and revitalisation of the School which commits SOAS to both student responsiveness and research intensity. SOAS is moving towards a new model of international partnerships which is responsive to the transnational character of our global challenges.

About the Role

Managed by the Assistant to the Provost, the post holder will work closely with the three Colleges’ Deans and the Registrar in the delivery of Colleges’ strategic and operational plans according to the SOAS vision and strategy.

The post holder will provide executive assistance to the three Colleges’ Deans and the Registrar, and to support planning activities of the three Colleges. They will work closely with the College managers, College hub colleagues, and the wider University community, and to liaise with external stakeholders. The post-holder will support diaries and meetings management, travel arrangements, financial matters, and other administrative duties to the three Colleges’ Deans and the Registrar. They will also provide support in Colleges internal and external meetings and events.

[About the Department]

The Provost provides academic and strategic leadership across the three academic colleges to fulfil SOAS’ strategic goals, implement the changes needed to ensure long-term financial sustainability and promote SOAS’ core values.

The post holder will be a member within the Provost Office providing support for the Colleges’ Deans and the Registrar.

[About you]

This role is ideal for candidates who wish to pursue an EA/PA career in supporting senior University executives. You will gain substantial experience in supporting senior University executives in this role. You will also have the opportunity to work with the wider University community in supporting Colleges functions. Previous working experience in higher education is desirable but not essential, it would be good if you have some executives support experiences including diaries management and travel arrangement.

You can find further information on the key criteria for the role in the Job Description and Person Specification, along with a full list of duties and responsibilities, which can be found on the SOAS website.

What We Offer:

We are committed to providing a supportive and rewarding work environment. In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive range of benefits designed to enhance your well-being and work-life balance:

• Generous Holiday Entitlement:Benefit from 44 days of holiday (30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and 6 closure days over Christmas and Easter) to ensure ample time for rest and relaxation.
• Flexible Working Arrangements:We recognise the importance of flexibility and offer options to help you manage your professional and personal commitments effectively.
• Generous occupational pension scheme:To provide financial security for your future
• Learning and Development: We are dedicated to your professional growth and development and offer diverse learning and development opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career.
• Health and Well-being Initiatives:Take advantage of our cycle to work scheme, eye tests, and season ticket loan to support your health and mobility.
• Enhanced Family Leave:We offer enhanced maternity, paternity & partner leave, and shared parental leave to support you during significant life events.
• Employee Assistance Programme:Access our confidential EAP for advice and support whenever needed.
• Discounted Gym Membership:Maintain your fitness with our discounted gym membership.

We would particularly welcome applications from candidates from working class, first generation Higher Education, Black, Asian, other minority ethnic and underrepresented groups from within the UK and beyond. All appointment decisions will be made on merit, following a fair and competitive process.

How to Apply:

Please complete the online application form and upload your CV and a supporting statement.

Closing date: 31stJuly 2025.

Interviews to be held: August 2025

Use of AI

While AI tools can be beneficial, we value the personal touch and authenticity in job applications. We encourage you to highlight your unique experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, ensuring all information is accurate. Please use AI tools responsibly and with integrity throughout the application and selection process.

Further information

Successful candidates will need to demonstrate their eligibility to work in the UK or have limited leave to remain in the UK and associated right to work for the duration of their employment with SOAS, in accordance with the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006.

We are not able to offer sponsorship for candidates who do not currently possess the right to work in the UK.

If you have any questions or require any assistance with regard to the application process, please contact us via the HR Contact Form | SOAS

For information on how and why SOAS processes personal data about its job applicants, please read ourJob Applicant Notice.