Executive Assistant

Plymouth City Council; Plymouth; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

A local government organization in Plymouth is seeking an experienced Executive Assistant to support the Director of Public Health. The role involves managing complex diaries, coordinating meetings, and preparing materials. Key qualifications include GCSEs in English and Maths, NVQ Level 3, and proven executive support experience. The position offers a dynamic work environment where your ideas are valued. Please apply by 8 December if you meet the criteria and have existing rights to work in the UK.

Qualifications

• Proven experience providing executive support in a large, complex organisation.
• Experience working in a political environment is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality executive support to the Director of Public Health.
• Manage diary commitments, correspondence, and meeting arrangements.
• Prepare agendas, papers, and briefing documents.

Skills

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Time management

IT skills

Education

GCSEs in English and Maths

NVQ Level 3 or equivalent experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Working pattern: 2 days per week (Thursday & Friday)

Reports to: Executive Office Manager

About The Role

We are looking for an experienced and highly organised Executive Assistant to provide exceptional support to the Director of Public Health as part of a job share arrangement. This is a fantastic opportunity to work at the heart of Plymouth City Council, supporting a senior leader and contributing to the delivery of vital public health services.

You will manage complex diaries, coordinate meetings, prepare briefing materials, and act as the first point of contact for internal and external stakeholders. The role requires excellent communication skills, discretion, and the ability to prioritise competing demands in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide high-quality executive support to the Director of Public Health.
• Manage and prioritise diary commitments, correspondence, and meeting arrangements.
• Prepare agendas, papers, and briefing documents, ensuring timely and accurate information.
• Liaise with senior managers, elected members, and external partners.
• Handle sensitive and confidential information with professionalism.
• Support continuous improvement within the Executive Support Team.

About You

• Essential:
• GCSEs (A*-C / 9-4) in English and Maths or equivalent.
• NVQ Level 3 or equivalent experience in business support.
• Proven experience providing executive support in a large, complex organisation.
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office and web-based systems.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills
• Desirable:
• Experience working in a political environment.
• Supervisory experience and knowledge of local authority services.

Why Join Us?

This is far more than an administrative role – it’s your opportunity to support the Council’s Strategic Leadership Team. You’ll be embedded in a fast-paced, forward-thinking environment where your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and your work directly contributes to shaping the future of Plymouth’s corporate services. If you thrive on challenge, collaboration, and making a real difference, we’d love to hear from you.

Plymouth City Council is an equal opportunities employer. All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of age, care experience, disability, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, race, religion/belief, sex or sexual orientation.

As part of our commitment to promoting equality we offer guaranteed interviews to those who meet the essential criteria and are considered disabled, care experienced or are an Armed Forces Service Leaver within the last two years.

Please note, this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship and we can only consider applicants with existing right to work in the UK.

For further information, please contact Katie Harris (Executive Office Manager) – [e-mail]

Closing Date: Monday 8 December